Forget expensive restaurant reservations this Valentine's Day! This Creamy Italian Chicken recipe offers a romantic and delicious meal without breaking the bank. Tender chicken breasts simmer in a rich, creamy sauce infused with the aromatic flavors of Italy – sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of Parmesan cheese. It's a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare, perfect for a cozy night in with your loved one (or a well-deserved treat for yourself!). The creamy sauce clings beautifully to your favorite pasta or serves wonderfully over a bed of fluffy rice.
This recipe is surprisingly simple, using readily available ingredients to create a restaurant-quality meal. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your wallet! For a step-by-step guide to creating this delectable Creamy Italian Chicken, let's dive into the detailed instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Chopping board
- Pan
- Blender (optional)
- Baking tray
- Air fryer (optional)
Ingredients
- Onion: 2 small or 1 large
- Red pepper: 1
- Yellow pepper: 1
- Mushrooms
- Smoked pancetta
- Garlic
- Chopped tomatoes (canned): 1 tin
- Tomato and Mascarpone sauce: 1 jar
- Chicken breasts
- Flour
- Egg
- Milk
- Breadcrumbs
- Mozzarella cheese
- Extra mature cheddar cheese
- Mini boiling potatoes (salad potatoes)
- Oil
- Garlic powder
- Chili powder
- Paprika
- Oregano (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Sauce and Vegetables
- Chop onions, red peppers, and yellow peppers into small dice. Set aside.
- Wipe mushrooms clean and dice them. Set aside.
- In a hot pan, fry the pancetta until slightly crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
- Add the chopped onions to the pan and soften them, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Add minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds.
- Add the chopped peppers and cook until softened.
- Return the pancetta to the pan. Add the mushrooms and cook through.
- Add the blended canned tomatoes and tomato and mascarpone sauce. Simmer for 20 minutes.
Step 2. Prepare and Cook the Chicken
- flour, egg wash (with milk), and breadcrumbs.
- Bake the breaded chicken for 20-25 minutes.
Step 3. Prepare the Mini Potatoes
- toss mini boiling potatoes with oil, garlic powder, chili powder (optional), and paprika. Air fry at 200° until golden brown.
Step 4. Combine and Serve
- Once the chicken is cooked, add it to the sauce and top with a mixture of mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Cover and let the cheese melt from the residual heat.
Read more: Grilled Stuffed Squid with Venere Black Rice & Buttered Vegetables
Tips
- Don't overcook the garlic to avoid a bitter taste.
- Use the rendered fat from the pancetta for extra flavor.
- Discard the flour and breadcrumbs after breading the chicken to avoid cross-contamination.
- This sauce can be prepped ahead of time and used for pasta or rice dishes.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of chicken?
Yes! Chicken thighs will also work well, just adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take longer to cook through.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! The Creamy Italian Chicken tastes even better the next day. Prepare it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
This Creamy Italian Chicken recipe proves that romance doesn't require a hefty price tag. With its simple yet elegant flavors, it's the perfect dish to share with someone special (or enjoy all to yourself!). So ditch the expensive dinner reservations and create a memorable Valentine's Day at home.