Are you craving a comforting yet sophisticated meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This creamy chicken with blue cheese sauce recipe is the perfect answer for busy weeknights or a delightful weekend dinner. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal cleanup, and is ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe is a fantastic example of how simple, homemade cooking can result in truly delicious dishes. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Season the chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This step is crucial for building flavor.
Cook the Chicken:
- 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. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for even browning.
Make the Sauce:
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Sprinkle the flour over the chicken in the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will thicken the sauce.
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Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
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Reduce heat to low, stir in the heavy cream, and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens.
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Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the crumbled blue cheese until melted and smooth. The heat from the sauce will melt the cheese beautifully.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve the chicken immediately over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite vegetable side dish. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips for the Best Chicken Blue Cheese Sauce:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Use good quality blue cheese: The flavor of the blue cheese will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish.
- Adjust the amount of blue cheese: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of blue cheese. Conversely, add more for a bolder, tangier sauce.
- Add some heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like gorgonzola or creamy goat cheese.
- Make it a bake: Transfer the chicken and sauce to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes for a bubbly, comforting casserole.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy chicken blue cheese recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!