Craving a delicious, creamy chicken dish that tastes like it came straight from your favorite restaurant? Look no further! This Pollo Con Crema recipe is surprisingly easy to make at home, delivering restaurant-quality flavor without the hefty price tag or complicated techniques. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this quick dinner idea that's both healthy and satisfying. It's one of those best recipes you'll want to keep coming back to!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This easy recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or tortillas, for serving
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Simple Guide
Follow these easy steps to create your restaurant-style Pollo Con Crema.
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Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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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.
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Build the Sauce: Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and green chilies, cream of mushroom soup, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Simmer and Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet. Bring the sauce to a gentle 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.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of lime juice, chili powder, and cumin for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes. Conversely, add a tablespoon or two of water for a thinner consistency.
- Don't be afraid to adjust the spices to your liking. Add more cayenne pepper for extra heat, or less for a milder dish.
Variations: Explore Your Culinary Creativity
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the dish with bell peppers, zucchini, or corn. Add them along with the onions.
- Spice it Up: Incorporate a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky flavor profile.
- Make it Cheesy: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving - Approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
Serve your delicious Pollo Con Crema over fluffy rice or with warm tortillas for scooping up the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a vibrant and flavorful finish. This homemade cooking creation is sure to become a new family favorite! Enjoy!