Are you craving a delicious, yet simple dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chicken and Dried Beef recipe is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. It's a delightful blend of savory dried beef, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables, creating a satisfying and healthy meal the whole family will love. This easy recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking without sacrificing flavor. It's a surefire way to elevate your weeknight meals and impress your loved ones with minimal effort. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 oz dried beef (also known as chipped beef), thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. This simple step helps the chicken brown nicely.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Don't burn the garlic!
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
Step 4: Incorporate the Dried Beef and Sauce
Stir in the dried beef, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Stir in the fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper if desired. Serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor, you can add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce.
- If you prefer a richer sauce, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Don't overcook the chicken; it should be tender and juicy.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken and Dried Beef: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Tomato Version: Substitute cream of tomato soup for cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the dish during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Around 30-35g
- Fat: Around 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Around 15-20g
This delicious Chicken and Dried Beef recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals that are quick to prepare. It's a perfect addition to your repertoire of best recipes, ideal for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal. Enjoy!