Chicken breast with sour cream and cheese sauce

Chicken Breast with Cream Sauce and Cheese

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a creamy, delicious, and savory chicken breast dish? This recipe for chicken breast with cream sauce and cheese is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner that will impress anyone sitting at the table. Paired with pasta or creamy mashed potatoes, this dish becomes a true celebration of flavors.

A Brief History of the Recipe

Chicken dishes have been part of the gastronomy of many cultures throughout time, and creamy sauces are often associated with festive meals. This combination of chicken with cream and cheese quickly became a favorite in many households due to its simplicity and versatility. It is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create an exceptionally tasty dish.

Ingredients

- 1 chicken breast (approximately 500 g)
- 1 medium red onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 300 g cream (preferably with a higher fat content for a creamier sauce)
- 50 ml milk
- 100 g cheese (choose a mature cheese for a more intense flavor)
- Fresh basil (to taste)
- Salt
- Pepper
- 400 g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your preference)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling the onion and garlic. Finely chop the onion and crush the garlic cloves. Meanwhile, cut the chicken breast into cubes of about 2-3 cm for even cooking. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to facilitate the cooking process.

Step 2: Cook the Onion and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and crushed garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until they become translucent and the aromas are released. Choose a quality butter, as it will contribute to the final flavor of the sauce.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken Breast

Add the chicken breast cubes to the skillet and brown them on all sides until golden (about 5-7 minutes). It’s important not to overcrowd the skillet so that the chicken browns evenly. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

Once the chicken is browned, add the cream and milk to the skillet. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should become creamy and thicken slightly.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Seasonings

When the sauce is ready, add the diced cheese, basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well until the cheese completely melts into the sauce. This step is essential for achieving a rich and flavorful sauce that perfectly envelops the chicken.

Step 6: Boil the Pasta

Meanwhile, boil the pasta according to the package instructions in salted boiling water. I prefer to leave them a little longer for a softer texture, but it’s a matter of personal preference. After boiling, drain them in a colander and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process.

Step 7: Assemble the Plate

To serve, place the pasta in deep plates and pour the chicken and sauce on top. You can garnish with a few fresh basil leaves for a touch of freshness. This dish can also be served with a green salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips and Tricks

- Ingredient Variations: You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to enrich the dish. Additionally, you can substitute the cheese with feta or mozzarella, depending on your preferences.
- Recommended Beverages: This dish pairs excellently with a dry white wine or a mint lemonade cocktail for a refreshing contrast.
- Nutritional Benefits: Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, and the cream adds calcium and healthy fats. Pasta provides a good source of carbohydrates, offering energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
- Yes, turkey is a healthy alternative and can be prepared in the same way.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
- Add a little chili pepper or chili flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.

3. Is it possible to make the recipe without cream?
- You can use Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative for a lighter sauce.

4. How long can the sauce be stored?
- The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to enjoy all the flavor.

Conclusion

This recipe for chicken breast with cream sauce and cheese is a wonderful choice for a quick dinner, as well as for a special occasion. With a little attention to detail and a few simple ingredients, you can transform an ordinary meal into a memorable culinary experience. Enjoy your meal! My family left their plates empty, and I’m sure yours will do the same!