Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This creamy chicken and biscuits recipe is the perfect answer for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. Forget takeout – this homemade version is far superior, bursting with flavor and guaranteed to become a family favorite. It’s a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can create with simple ingredients and minimal effort. This recipe is a masterclass in easy recipes and healthy meals, showcasing how homemade cooking can be both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients:
For the Creamy Chicken:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Biscuits:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- ¾ cup buttermilk
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your biscuits bake perfectly while the chicken simmers to perfection.
Creamy Chicken Preparation:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. This step helps develop the chicken's flavor and creates a nice sear.
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, parsley, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Biscuit Baking:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The colder the butter, the flakier your biscuits will be!
- Gradually add the buttermilk, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it to about ½-inch thickness. Use a biscuit cutter or a knife to cut out biscuits.
- Place the biscuits on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serving Suggestions:
Spoon the creamy chicken over the warm biscuits and serve immediately. This dish is a delightful example of quick dinner ideas, perfect for busy weeknights. For an extra touch, consider adding a side salad or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded and healthy meal.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken.
- Substitute other cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or Colby, for the cheddar.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Add different vegetables to the chicken, such as mushrooms, carrots, or peas.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 25-30g Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This recipe offers a fantastic balance of flavor and ease, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of best recipes. Enjoy!