TENDER CHICKEN DELIGHT RECIPE | CREAMY & CHEESY

Tender Chicken Delight Recipe | Creamy & Cheesy

This Tender Chicken Delight is a creamy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. It’s packed with juicy, tender chicken breast, a rich and flavorful cream sauce, and a topping of bubbly, golden cheese. Ready to impress without the fuss? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for searing)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown (but not cooked through). Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Cook Garlic: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Make a Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic. Whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
3. Add Liquids: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Then add the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Season and Thicken: Stir in the Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Layer the Chicken: Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish in a single layer. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken.
3. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses generously over the top of the chicken and sauce.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake: Bake the dish uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
2. Broil (Optional): For extra golden cheese, broil the dish on high for 2-3 minutes at the end.

Step 5: Serve

1. Rest: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute and ensures a tender bite.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Pair this creamy, cheesy chicken with buttery mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
• Pasta: Serve over cooked pasta or rice to soak up all the rich sauce.

Tips for Success

1. Even Cooking: If your chicken breasts are thick, consider slicing them horizontally or pounding them to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses! Gruyere, provolone, or Monterey Jack would be delicious alternatives.
3. Make It Lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use reduced-fat cheeses to cut down on calories while keeping it creamy.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe and tend to be even juicier.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

4. What can I add for extra flavor?
Feel free to add cooked mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach to the sauce for extra texture and flavor.

This Tender Chicken Delight Recipe combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender, flavorful chicken for a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for weeknights or entertaining, it’s as simple as it is satisfying!