Are you looking for delicious, healthy dinner recipes that don't require hours in the kitchen? Then you've come to the right place! Sous vide cooking, a method of cooking food in temperature-controlled water baths, delivers incredibly tender and flavorful results with minimal effort. This might sound complicated, but trust me, these sous vide dinner recipes are easier than you think, perfect for busy weeknights and impressive enough for special occasions. Get ready to elevate your home cooking with these simple, yet stunning, recipes!
Lemon Herb Sous Vide Chicken Breast
This recipe is a fantastic introduction to the world of sous vide. It’s a quick, healthy, and delicious meal, perfect for those looking for easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. The sous vide method ensures perfectly cooked chicken breast, every single time.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- Create the Flavor Packets: Place lemon slices, rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic in a large resealable bag. Add the chicken breasts.
- Seal and Vacuum (Optional): Seal the bag, removing as much air as possible. For best results, use a vacuum sealer. If you don't have one, press out as much air as possible and seal tightly.
- Sous Vide Cooking: Place the bag in a sous vide bath set to 145°F (63°C). Cook for 1.5 – 2 hours.
- Sear (Optional): For extra crispiness, remove the chicken from the bag and sear in a hot pan with olive oil for 1-2 minutes per side.
- Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite sides. Roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a simple salad are all excellent choices.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Sous Vide Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the bag: This can prevent even cooking.
- Use a thermometer: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it's cooked through.
- Rest the chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: Approximately 35g
- Fat: Approximately 8g
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the flavor packet for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Add grated parmesan cheese to the flavor packet for a richer flavor.
- Mediterranean Chicken: Substitute oregano and basil for rosemary and thyme, and add sun-dried tomatoes and olives.
This sous vide chicken recipe is a fantastic example of how easy and delicious homemade cooking can be. Embrace the simplicity of sous vide and enjoy perfectly cooked, flavorful chicken any night of the week! Explore more delicious and healthy meal options with other sous vide recipes – your taste buds will thank you!