Creamy Chicken over Rice or Noodles

Are you craving a comforting and delicious meal that is easy to make? Look no further than this creamy chicken over rice or noodles recipe. With tender chicken, a rich and creamy sauce, and your choice of rice or noodles, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is a winner. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this mouthwatering dish step by step.

Ingredients:

For the chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the creamy sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

For serving:

• Cooked rice or noodles
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Steps:

Step 1: Cook the chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the creamy sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits.

Add the heavy cream, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and dried parsley to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine the chicken and sauce

Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken to coat it evenly. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, until the chicken is heated through and the flavors are well incorporated.

Step 4: Serve over rice or noodles

Once the chicken is fully cooked, it’s time to serve this delicious dish. You can choose to serve it over cooked rice or noodles, depending on your preference. Arrange the chicken on a bed of rice or noodles on serving plates. Spoon some extra sauce over the top, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Variations:

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

1. Creamy Mushroom Chicken:

Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the diced onion and garlic. Sauté until the mushrooms are tender and golden brown. Proceed with the recipe as directed, and enjoy the added earthy flavor of mushrooms.

2. Lemon Herb Chicken:

Add the juice and zest of one lemon to the creamy sauce. Stir in some freshly chopped herbs such as parsley, thyme, and rosemary. The bright citrusy flavors will elevate the dish and add a refreshing twist.

3. Spicy Cajun Chicken:

Sprinkle Cajun seasoning or a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder over the chicken breasts before cooking them. This will give the dish a spicy kick, perfect for those who enjoy some heat.

Tips:

Here are a few tips to ensure your creamy chicken over rice or noodles turns out perfect every time:

1. Pound the chicken breasts:

Before cooking the chicken, pound them to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly. This also helps to tenderize the meat.

2. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts:

Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts saves time and effort. However, if you prefer bone-in or skin-on chicken, feel free to use those instead. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

3. Don’t overcook the chicken:

Chicken breasts can easily become dry and tough if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.

4. Customize the sauce:

Feel free to adjust the herbs and seasonings in the creamy sauce to your liking. You can also add a splash of white wine or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

5. Serve with a side:

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad. Choose your favorite side dish to complete the meal.

Conclusion:

Creamy chicken over rice or noodles is a comforting and versatile dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. With tender chicken, a luscious creamy sauce, and the option to serve it over rice or noodles, this recipe is a winner. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is easy to make and packed with flavor. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as chicken thighs may require a few additional minutes to cook through.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze the leftovers of this dish. Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Q: Can I use low-fat alternatives for the cream?

A: Yes, you can use low-fat cream or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt to make a lighter version of the creamy sauce. However, keep in mind that the texture and richness of the sauce may be slightly different.

Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?

A: To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure that the dried herbs you use are certified gluten-free. Serve the chicken and sauce over gluten-free rice or noodles.