Are you craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner? Look no further! This Chicken Breast and Ham recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a simple dish that packs a punch of taste, combining the lean protein of chicken breast with the salty goodness of ham. Perfect for homemade cooking, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 4 ounces thinly sliced ham, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
-
Season and Sear: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
-
Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Combine Ingredients: Add the ham to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until heated through. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
-
Simmer Chicken: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
-
Creamy Finish: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir in the dried thyme.
-
Serve: Serve the chicken breast and ham immediately, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When searing the chicken, ensure there's enough space in the pan to allow for proper browning. If necessary, sear the chicken breasts in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and thyme to suit your preferences.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the dish by adding other vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach during the simmering stage.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- Lemon Zest: Brighten the flavor with a teaspoon of lemon zest.
- Creamy Mushroom Sauce: Replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms and enhance the sauce with a tablespoon of Dijon mustard.
- Slow Cooker Option: For a hands-off approach, you can adapt this recipe to a slow cooker. Simply sear the chicken and sauté the aromatics as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 40-45g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This recipe provides a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious and healthy meal. It's perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!