Are you looking for a delicious and easy dinner recipe that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This creamy mascarpone chicken recipe is a perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, incredibly satisfying, and surprisingly healthy. Forget complicated cooking techniques – this recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick and delicious meal. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup dry white wine
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary to ensure the chicken browns properly. This ensures a juicy and tender final product.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Mascarpone Sauce
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the mascarpone cheese and heavy cream until smooth and creamy. If using, add the white wine now and let it simmer for a minute to reduce slightly. The wine adds depth of flavor but is entirely optional.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with extra basil if desired for a beautiful presentation.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Lemon zest: A little lemon zest brightens the sauce beautifully.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Chopped sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of intense flavor.
- Different herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or oregano.
- Vegetable additions: Add sauteed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a delicious and healthy meal. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This creamy mascarpone chicken recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas. The homemade cooking experience will be incredibly rewarding, resulting in a delicious dish that your family and friends will surely love. It's a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly memorable meal. Enjoy!