Are you craving a delicious, impressive meal that won't break the bank or keep you in the kitchen all day? Then look no further! This Million Dollar Chicken recipe is the perfect solution for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner. It's a crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly easy to make, ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Get ready to elevate your chicken game with this simple yet elegant dish – your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown properly. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Searing the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. This step develops a beautiful crust and adds depth of flavor.
Step 3: Deglazing the Pan
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This is called deglazing, and it adds incredible flavor to the sauce.
Step 4: Making the Sauce
Reduce the liquid in the skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened. Stir in the butter until melted. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream until the sauce is creamy and thickened. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Combining and Serving
Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the creamy Parmesan sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through and the sauce to thicken further. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve immediately over your favorite pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for Million Dollar Chicken:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or milk to thin it out.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the sauce. Dried thyme, oregano, or rosemary would all be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce, along with a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Mushroom Chicken: Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the chicken during step 2, then add them back to the skillet with the chicken in step 5.
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: Approximately 35-40g Fat: Approximately 25-30g Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This Million Dollar Chicken recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and easy healthy meals can be. It's a versatile dish that can be adapted to your own preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy!