Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary Italian-inspired masterpiece! This Creamy Chicken with Soft Polenta is not just a meal—it's a warm embrace on a plate that combines luxurious textures, rich flavors, and pure comfort. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress or someone craving a restaurant-quality dish without leaving your kitchen, this recipe promises to elevate your dining experience with its creamy, indulgent charm.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup polenta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing chicken breast into uniform 1-inch cubes and measuring out all other ingredients precisely.
- Season chicken pieces generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring even coating.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Add seasoned chicken cubes to the skillet, spreading them in a single layer to ensure proper browning and prevent overcrowding.
- Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through with no pink remaining in the center.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and pour heavy cream over the chicken, stirring to create a rich, creamy sauce.
- In a separate large saucepan, bring chicken broth to a gentle boil for preparing polenta.
- Slowly whisk polenta into boiling broth, reducing heat to low and continuing to stir constantly to prevent lumps.
- Cook polenta for approximately 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes thick and creamy.
- Stir grated Parmesan cheese into the polenta, creating a smooth and rich base.
- Once polenta reaches desired consistency and chicken is cooked, plate by spreading soft polenta as a base and topping with creamy chicken.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh ground black pepper if desired, and serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Chicken Browning Secrets: Ensure your skillet is hot but not smoking, and don't overcrowd the pan. This guarantees a beautiful golden-brown exterior that locks in flavor.
- Polenta Perfection: Whisk continuously while adding polenta to the broth to prevent lumps. The key is patience and constant stirring for a silky-smooth texture.
- Cream Sauce Magic: Add cream slowly and let it simmer gently to develop a rich, velvety sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.
- Cheese Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor—pre-grated cheese lacks the same depth and can be less creamy.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately while the polenta is hot and creamy, and the chicken sauce is still steaming for the best taste and texture experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 130mg
