Are you craving a flavorful, yet surprisingly simple dinner? Look no further! This chicken and blue cheese recipe is a fantastic option for a quick weeknight meal or a more impressive weekend gathering. It's packed with incredible flavor, and the creamy blue cheese sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals without sacrificing taste. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional, for added crunch)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Season the chicken cubes generously with salt and pepper. This simple step is key to flavorful chicken.
Cook the chicken and vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Create the creamy blue cheese sauce:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low.
- Stir in the heavy cream and crumbled blue cheese. Cook, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of extra broth.
Combine and serve:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it evenly in the blue cheese sauce.
- Stir in the chopped walnuts (if using).
- Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Garnish and enjoy:
- Serve the chicken and blue cheese over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for the Best Chicken and Blue Cheese:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- If you prefer a milder blue cheese flavor, you can use a combination of blue cheese and cream cheese.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken and Blue Cheese: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy twist.
- Chicken and Blue Cheese with Bacon: Crumble some cooked bacon into the sauce for added smoky flavor and texture.
- Chicken and Blue Cheese with Sun-dried Tomatoes: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for a burst of sweetness and acidity.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and ingredients used. For a precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients and quantities. However, expect a moderate calorie count with a good source of protein and fat.
This easy chicken and blue cheese recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of homemade cooking recipes. It’s a quick dinner idea that’s both delicious and satisfying. Enjoy!