Prepare the Chicken: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt, pepper, and paprika. Once the pan is hot, place the chicken in the skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Make the Sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add the dried oregano and basil, mixing well. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, letting the sauce become smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Combine Chicken with Sauce: Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it in the creamy sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 5 more minutes, allowing it to absorb the rich flavors and stay juicy.
Serve and Garnish: Once everything is heated through and the sauce is thick and creamy, plate the chicken and drizzle with the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for an added burst of color and flavor.
Enjoy! Serve this dish with your choice of sides—steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes make great companions to soak up the creamy sauce.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of greens, like sautéed spinach or a fresh salad, to balance out the richness. You can also serve it with crusty bread to dip into the creamy sauce.
Make It Dairy-Free: If you’re looking to make this meal dairy-free, simply swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The creamy sauce may thicken slightly when refrigerated, so add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up when reheating.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then heat in a saucepan, adding a bit more broth or cream if needed.
Variants:
Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for your favorite plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas. This will give you a rich, satisfying dish without the meat.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce to add a spicy flair to the dish. You can also top with fresh jalapeño slices for an extra heat boost.
Herb Infused: For a more aromatic twist, try infusing the cream sauce with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Simply add the herbs while simmering the sauce, and strain them out before adding the cream.
Mushroom Lover’s Delight: Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for extra depth and umami flavor. Mushrooms pair beautifully with the creamy sauce and will make the dish even heartier.
FAQ:
Can I make this dish in advance? Yes, this dish can be prepared a day ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Reheat gently on the stove.
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! Bone-in chicken will work just as well, though it may require a bit more cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked. Just adjust the searing time and simmer the chicken longer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What can I use instead of heavy cream? If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, milk, or a non-dairy cream substitute like coconut cream or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
How can I make this dish more flavorful? You can experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika, to adjust the flavor profile. Adding a splash of white wine or balsamic vinegar to the sauce can also elevate the taste.
What sides go well with this dish? This creamy chicken dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Conclusion:
This recipe is an easy and delicious dinner that can be made year-round, offering the perfect balance of comfort, flavor, and simplicity. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Plus, with its customizable options and easy prep, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again. Happy cooking!
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