Tender Chicken Delight is a rich, creamy dish that features tender chicken breasts cooked in a savory sauce made with cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for a comforting family dinner or even a special occasion. Serve it over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For Tender Chicken Delight
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, paprika, and half of the dried thyme and rosemary.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Add the softened cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and remaining thyme and rosemary. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce.
- Cover and let the chicken cook in the sauce for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve the Tender Chicken Delight hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. Pair it with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
- Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- Cooking Time: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Variations
- Mushroom Chicken Delight: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the garlic for a delicious mushroom variation.
- Spicy Chicken Delight: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
- Lemon Herb Chicken Delight: Stir in the juice of half a lemon and some lemon zest for a fresh, citrusy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce gently in a skillet before adding the chicken to warm through.
2. How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
3. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly to ensure they are fully cooked.
4. What Can I Serve with Tender Chicken Delight?
This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Tender Chicken Delight is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, herb-infused sauce, this meal is sure to be a hit. Serve it alongside your favorite sides and enjoy a comforting, delicious dinner that’s easy to prepare.
Happy cooking!