Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further! This recipe combines two classic comfort foods – baked chicken and creamy chicken soup – into one delicious, healthy meal. It's perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, and it's so versatile you can easily adapt it to your preferences. This is a fantastic example of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas all rolled into one. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
For the Baked Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Chicken Soup:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken, shredded (from the baked chicken)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Baking the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Making the Creamy Chicken Soup:
- While the chicken is baking, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This creates a roux which will thicken the soup.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the milk or cream, shredded chicken, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
Serving:
Serve the creamy chicken soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Pair it with a slice or two of the baked chicken for a complete and delicious meal. This easy recipes is sure to become a family favorite!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the soup for a little heat.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as peas, green beans, or potatoes.
- Make it healthier: Use low-fat milk or cream to reduce the fat content.
- Leftovers: This dish is even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-45g
- Fat: Approximately 15-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30g
This recipe provides a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for a quick and easy dinner. It's a fantastic example of best recipes for those who appreciate both delicious dishes and the convenience of easy recipes. Enjoy!