Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices or lengthy preparation time? Then look no further! This creamy, dreamy chicken in vodka sauce recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and delivers a burst of flavor that'll have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple yet sophisticated dish. This recipe is perfect for those searching for easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas. It's a delicious dish that showcases the best of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Pasta of your choice (fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti work well)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Add onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Infuse the Sauce
Pour in the vodka and let it cook for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to cook off, releasing its flavor into the sauce. This step adds depth and complexity to your sauce – don't skip it!
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat it evenly in the creamy vodka sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through. Serve immediately over your favorite pasta.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra richness: Use a combination of heavy cream and half-and-half.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Veggie boost: Sauté some mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach with the onions for added nutrients and flavor.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad and crusty bread for a satisfying and well-rounded dinner.
- Meal prepping made easy: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping throughout the week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This Chicken in Vodka Sauce recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious and healthy meals don’t have to be complicated. It’s a fantastic example of how simple ingredients, combined with a little know-how, can create a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Enjoy!