Are you craving a delicious, comforting meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Captain Country Chicken recipe is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for the whole family. Forget complicated recipes and expensive takeout; this homemade dish offers a healthy and satisfying alternative, perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Veggies: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
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Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Cheese it Up (Optional): If using, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese during the last 2 minutes of cooking. This adds a delightful creamy texture and cheesy flavor.
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Serve & Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side vegetables.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the chicken, ensure you don't overcrowd the skillet. Work in batches if necessary to ensure the chicken browns properly and doesn't steam.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and thyme to your preference.
- Thicker sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the mixture uncovered for a few more minutes after the chicken is cooked.
- Make it ahead: This recipe can be easily made ahead of time and reheated. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Captain Country Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Tomato Captain Country Chicken: Substitute cream of tomato soup for cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Captain Country Chicken recipe is a simple, healthy, and delicious meal that's perfect for any night of the week. It's a great example of easy recipes and healthy meals that don't compromise on flavor. Enjoy!