Chicken breast in white sauce

Chicken Breast in White Sauce - A Simple and Delicious Recipe

When it comes to dishes that can bring a smile to the faces of loved ones, chicken breast in white sauce is certainly one of them. This simple yet refined recipe combines the delicate taste of chicken with savory flavors, creating a dish that blends tradition with innovation. Whether it's a family dinner or a special meal, this dish promises to be a success.

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 500 g boneless chicken breast
- 1 medium onion
- 1 small carrot
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon mascarpone (or another cream cheese)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1.5 cups of water

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken breast well under cold running water and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Peel the onion and chop it finely, and wash the carrot well and slice it into rounds.

2. Searing the chicken: In a ceramic pot (or a deep skillet), add a little oil (if not using ceramic, which requires less oil) and heat over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear them on all sides until golden. This step will add a layer of flavor to your dish.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once the chicken is browned, add the chopped onion and carrot rounds. Stir gently to combine the flavors and let them sauté together for 3-4 minutes.

4. Boiling: Add 1.5 cups of water and bring to a boil. If the water starts to boil, remember to skim off the foam that forms. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes. If you notice that the water is reducing too much, add a little hot water.

5. Preparing the sauce: In a small bowl, dissolve the flour in a little cold water (about 50 ml) to avoid lumps. When the chicken and vegetables are well cooked, lower the heat and add the flour mixture, stirring continuously to obtain a smooth sauce. If you want a thicker sauce, you can add more flour.

6. Seasoning: Add salt, pepper, and dried basil, stirring to integrate the flavors. Then, peel the garlic, crush it, and add it to the pot.

7. Finalizing the sauce: Turn off the heat and incorporate the sour cream and mascarpone. Stir gently to create a creamy and rich sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 bubbles, without letting it boil too much to avoid ruining the creamy texture.

8. Serving: Once ready, remove the pot from the heat and sprinkle the chopped parsley on top. This final touch will add freshness and a splash of color.

Serving Suggestions
Chicken breast in white sauce pairs wonderfully with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. A simple green salad can also perfectly complement this dish, bringing a fresh contrast.

Practical Tips
- Choosing the meat: It is important to choose fresh chicken breast. You can also opt for chicken breast with skin if you prefer a richer taste.
- Variations: You can add mushrooms or bell peppers for an extra flavor and texture. Additionally, replacing sour cream with Greek yogurt offers a lighter option.
- Garlic: If you enjoy a stronger garlic flavor, you can add an extra clove.

Nutritional Benefits
This chicken breast in white sauce recipe is rich in quality protein, making it ideal for those looking to maintain muscle mass. The sour cream adds healthy fats, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Calories
A serving of chicken breast in white sauce contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil and sour cream used. It is a balanced dish, perfect for an evening meal.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken? – It is recommended to use fresh chicken for the best flavor, but you can also use frozen chicken, ensuring it is completely thawed before cooking.
2. What can I do if the sauce is too thin? – If you notice the sauce is too thin, you can add more flour dissolved in water or let the sauce simmer a little longer to reduce.
3. How can I adapt the recipe for a vegetarian diet? – You can replace the chicken with tofu or seitan to create a delicious vegetarian version.

This chicken breast in white sauce recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a sophisticated and comforting dish. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, it's hard to go wrong with this combination! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1/2 larger boneless chicken breast, 1 onion, 1 small carrot, 1 tablespoon flour, 2 tablespoons sour cream, 1 tablespoon mascarpone (or another cream cheese), salt, pepper, 2 cloves of garlic, 1 pinch of dried basil, fresh parsley

 Tags:  chicken stew