Are you craving a creamy, comforting chicken dish but avoiding dairy? This recipe delivers all the richness and flavor you love without any milk or cream! It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner, perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a delicious and healthy meal. This homemade recipe is surprisingly simple and boasts incredible flavor, proving that delicious dishes can also be healthy and dairy-free.
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 full-fat coconut milk (canned)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Sauté the Chicken: Heat 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.
-
Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Stir in the nutritional yeast, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
-
Combine and Simmer: Return the chicken to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
-
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This creamy chicken dish is excellent served over rice, quinoa, or with your favorite vegetables.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the chicken, ensure you don’t overcrowd the skillet. Work in batches if necessary to ensure the chicken browns properly and doesn’t steam.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference. Add more lemon juice for extra tanginess, or more thyme for a stronger herbal flavor.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes, or whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Medley: Add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli to the skillet along with the onions.
- Creamy Mushroom Chicken: Sauté a cup of sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy flavor addition.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't compromise on flavor. It's a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and showcases how simple homemade cooking can be. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dairy-free chicken dish!