Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This creamy chicken thigh recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. It's a delicious dish that's both healthy and satisfying, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated. Forget takeout – this quick dinner idea will quickly become a family favorite. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup creamed of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with extra broth)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked pasta or rice, for serving
Instructions:
-
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs 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. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Build the Sauce: Pour in the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and white wine (if using). Stir well to combine. Add the thyme and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Simmer & Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet. Bring the sauce 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 in the heavy cream during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
-
Serve & Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately over cooked pasta or rice.
Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Thighs:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When searing the chicken, work in batches if necessary to ensure the chicken browns properly and doesn't steam.
- Taste and adjust: Seasoning is key! Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes, or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water.
- Add vegetables: For a heartier meal, add other vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon along with the herbs for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Creamy Mushroom Chicken: Sauté 8 oz of sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy, mushroomy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This easy recipe delivers a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. It's a simple yet elegant dish that showcases the versatility of chicken thighs, offering a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals you can whip up at home. Enjoy your creamy chicken thigh delight!