Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chicken Con Crema recipe is your answer. This easy recipe delivers a delicious, creamy chicken dish bursting with vibrant flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, this healthy meal is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this simple yet satisfying recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies, undrained (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or tortillas, for serving
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 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. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for even browning.
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Simmer the sauce: Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), condensed cream of mushroom soup, optional diced green chilies, chicken broth, heavy cream (or half-and-half), chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Cook until thickened: 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. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over cooked rice or with warm tortillas.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Con Crema:
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Just remember to adjust cooking time accordingly.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add more diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for a longer period or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water at the end of cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.
Delicious Variations:
- Chicken Con Crema with Cheese: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Chicken Con Crema: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Creamy Chicken Con Crema with Mushrooms: Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic for added depth of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Chicken Con Crema recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight dinner solution. It’s a fantastic example of how easy it is to create healthy meals at home without sacrificing taste. The creamy texture, combined with the savory spices and tender chicken, makes this dish a winner for everyone. Enjoy!