Are you craving a comforting yet elegant meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This creamy chicken with crème fraîche recipe is the perfect solution for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend treat. It's packed with flavor, boasts a luxuriously smooth sauce, and comes together in under 30 minutes. This healthy meal is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and delicious dishes without sacrificing flavor or quality. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup crème fraîche
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with extra chicken broth)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Flavor the Base
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.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using). Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the chicken to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Stir in the crème fraîche and gently heat through. Do not boil, as this can curdle the crème fraîche. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will ensure the chicken browns properly and doesn't steam. Work in batches if necessary.
- Use good quality crème fraîche: The quality of the crème fraîche will significantly impact the flavor of the dish. Opt for a full-fat crème fraîche for the best results.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. You can add more herbs, spices, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Variations:
- Add mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary, oregano, or tarragon.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This simple yet sophisticated chicken crème fraîche recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking. It’s a delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering a healthy meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful. Enjoy!