| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 590 | 41g | 20g | 10g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 1g | 45g | 0.6g |
As a professional food blogger and lover of both French elegance and Creole richness, I must say that the Creamy Chervil Chicken recipe holds a special place in my culinary heart. Simply looking at the plated dish, which can be seen here:
I am reminded of the complex yet harmonious blend of ingredients that bring the dish to life.
The Magic of Chervil
Chervil, with its slight hint of anise, ties each integral part of this recipe together. Its unique flavor profile bridges the gap between the lemon zest’s tangy brightness, the savory richness of the chicken broth and cream, and the aromatic garlic and onion base. The inclusion of chervil in this recipe is also a nod to my French ancestry as the herb is a quintessential component of classic French cooking.
The Unexpected Twist: Mixed Fruit
Meanwhile, the fusion of mixed fruit introduces an unexpected twist to the recipe. Think sweet, juicy berries or succulent diced peaches that tease your taste buds with bursts of freshness. While this addition may catch some by surprise, I find the sweet offering of fruit to be the perfect counterpoint to the umami base of the dish. It’s this dash of creativity that makes the Creamy Chervil Chicken a one-of-a-kind recipe.
Benefits of the Recipe
Beyond its delightful blend of flavors, the Creamy Chervil Chicken also boasts notable health benefits. Despite being a creamy dish, it maintains a balance by incorporating lean protein of the chicken, the healthy fats from the olive oil, and nutrients from the mixed fruits. Aiding in digestive health, strength, and immunity, chicken serves as a powerhouse ingredient, while olive oil provides heart-healthy fats. The fruits, on the other hand, contribute a hefty dose of vitamins and antioxidants.
Pairings and Comparisons
In terms of comparisons, I would liken this recipe to a French style “fricassee,” owing to its creamy, aromatic, and herb-filled sauce. As for pairing suggestions, I believe this Creamy Chervil Chicken would be excellently accompanied by a side of garlic-roasted potatoes or a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
The charm of this recipe lies in its interweaving of diverse, robust flavors. Creamy Chervil Chicken is not just an extraordinarily delectable dish; it’s a testament to the beauty of a thoughtful culinary fusion. It’s a reminder that a well-cooked meal can be a work of art, a symphony of flavors that nourishes the soul as it delights the palate.
What You’ll Need
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/4 cup of fresh chervil, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup of mixed fruit (like berries or diced peaches)
Method
Step One:
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Once cooked, set the chicken aside on a plate.
Step Two:
In the same skillet, sauté the garlic and onion until they become soft and fragrant. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step Three:
Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a boil, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, then add in the heavy cream, chervil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine.
Step Four:
Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top of each breast. Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer in the sauce over low heat for about 10-15 minutes, until it is fully cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
Step Five:
While the chicken is cooking, prepare your mixed fruit. If using larger fruits like peaches, chop them into bite-sized pieces. No need to do this if you’re using small berries.
Step Six:
Once the chicken is done, plate each breast and spoon extra sauce over the top, then top with a handful of the prepared fruit. Your Creamy Chervil Chicken is ready to serve. Enjoy!
