Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and quick meal option, this creamy chicken stew is an excellent choice. It combines simple ingredients to create a comforting dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. With a rich, velvety sauce and tender chicken, this recipe is not only easy to make but also burst with flavors that will please your entire family.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Chicken breast: 500 grams, diced
– Onion: 1 medium, chopped
– Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
– Heavy cream: 200 ml
– Chicken broth: 250 ml
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Salt: to taste
– Black pepper: to taste
– Paprika: 1 teaspoon
– Fresh parsley: for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This creamy chicken stew is not only a straightforward recipe, but it also allows you to enjoy a hearty dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it with rice or bread, and you have a delightful meal that everyone will love.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, ensuring that they are uniform to promote even cooking.
Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet or pan, add a splash of oil and place it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook until they are golden brown on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent and the mixture is fragrant.
Add the Cream Sauce Ingredients
Pour in cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, which should take around 3-5 minutes.
Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the browned chicken pieces to the pan, ensuring they are coated with the creamy sauce. Stir in your choice of herbs or spices as desired for added flavor.
Cook the Dish
Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, absorbing the flavors of the sauce.
Serve and Enjoy
Once done, serve the creamy chicken dish hot. Pair with your chosen sides, such as rice or vegetables, to round out the meal.
Notes
Chicken Selection
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a tender and quick-cooking option.
Thickening the Sauce
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you may add a cornstarch slurry (mixed with cold water) to the simmering sauce.
Vegetable Options
Feel free to include other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for additional flavor and nutrition.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving again.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking method that involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. This technique is perfect for browning the chicken and developing flavor without overcooking it.
Simmering
Simmering is a gentle cooking technique where food is cooked in liquid at a temperature just below boiling. This method is excellent for infusing flavors and tenderizing ingredients, as seen in creating a creamy sauce for the chicken.
Creaming
Creaming is the process of mixing fat (like butter or cream) with sugar until light and fluffy. In savory dishes, this technique helps to create a rich, creamy texture in sauces.
Deglazing
Deglazing is the technique of adding liquid (such as broth or wine) to a hot pan to loosen flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds depth and richness to the dish and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Finishing
Finishing refers to the final touches applied to a dish before serving. This can include adding fresh herbs, a drizzle of cream, or a squeeze of lemon juice to elevate the flavor and presentation.
FAQ
What can I serve with creamy chicken stew?
You can serve it with rice, pasta, or crusty bread, which will help soak up the delicious sauce.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make the dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños.
Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stew a day ahead and reheat it before serving. The flavors will deepen as it sits.
Can I freeze the creamy chicken stew?
Yes, you can freeze it. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of cream to return its original texture.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken stew is a delicious and quick meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, it offers a comforting option for busy weeknights. The rich flavors and creamy texture make it a satisfying dish that pairs well with a variety of sides.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken and Mushroom Risotto
A creamy risotto featuring tender chicken and earthy mushrooms, cooked slowly to develop rich flavors.
Chicken Stir-Fry with Mixed Vegetables
Quickly sauté chunks of chicken with an assortment of colorful vegetables for a healthy and vibrant dish.
Chicken Tacos with Avocado Crema
Spice up your chicken leftovers by turning them into flavorful tacos topped with a smooth avocado sauce.
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta
Toss pasta with a creamy sauce, sautéed spinach, and chicken for a satisfying one-pot meal.
BBQ Chicken Flatbreads
Use shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, and fresh toppings on flatbreads for a fun and easy meal that packs a flavor punch.