Creamy Chicken Leek Delight
Experience the rich flavors of tender chicken combined with the aromatic essence of leeks in this creamy dish. This delightful recipe takes advantage of precooked chicken, making it not only simple but also a fantastic weeknight dinner option. The added richness of whipping cream enhances the overall flavor, creating a luscious sauce that's perfect for serving over fluffy white rice. A touch of nutmeg adds warmth to this comforting dish, while fresh parsley provides a pop of color. Whether you're cooking for family or entertaining guests, this creamy chicken with leeks is sure to impress!
N/A
Servings
80
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
cooked chicken
1 (shredded into bite-sized pieces)
leeks
3-4 (trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces, cleaned)
olive oil
1 tablespoon (none)
garlic clove
1 (chopped)
salt
to taste (none)
black pepper
to taste (none)
nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon (none)
whipping cream
1/2 cup (none)
fresh parsley
for garnish (chopped)
Instructions
1
Begin by shredding the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
2
Prepare the leeks by trimming off the dark green tops and the root end. Cut the remaining white and light green parts into 2-inch pieces, then slice each piece lengthwise and separate the layers. Rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit.
3
In a large skillet, add the olive oil and bring it to medium heat. Sauté the chopped garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4
Add the prepared leek stems to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened. If using, add the leek leaves and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring they remain a vibrant green and just tender without browning.
5
Stir in the shredded chicken and continue to cook, stirring gently, until the chicken is heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
6
Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and nutmeg, stirring well to combine all the flavors.
7
Pour in the whipping cream, gently mixing it with the chicken and leeks. Heat the dish for another 2-3 minutes until warmed and slightly thickened, but do not allow it to boil.
8
Serve hot over cooked white rice, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a colorful finish.
Nutrition Information
5.3g
Fat
2.3g
Carbs
5.8g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Chicken Leek Delight?
It is a comforting and easy dish made with shredded cooked chicken and sautéed leeks in a rich whipping cream sauce, typically served over rice.
What are the primary ingredients needed for this recipe?
The main ingredients include cooked chicken, leeks, olive oil, garlic, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, whipping cream, and fresh parsley.
How should I prepare the leeks?
Trim the dark green tops and roots, cut the white and light green parts into 2-inch pieces, slice lengthwise, separate layers, and rinse thoroughly to remove grit.
Can I use raw chicken for this recipe?
This specific recipe is designed for precooked chicken. If using raw chicken, you must fully cook it before proceeding with the leek and cream steps.
How many calories are in a serving of Creamy Chicken Leek Delight?
There are approximately 80 calories per serving.
What is the fat content of this dish?
The dish contains approximately 5.3g of fat per serving.
How much protein is in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 5.8g of protein.
What is the carbohydrate count?
There are 2.3g of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the best way to serve this chicken and leek dish?
It is best served hot over a bed of fluffy white rice.
How much whipping cream is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of whipping cream.
What spice gives this dish its warm flavor?
A touch of nutmeg (1/8 teaspoon) is used to add warmth to the flavor profile.
How long should I sauté the leeks?
The white and light green stems should be sautéed for 3-4 minutes, and the leaves for an additional 1-2 minutes until tender.
Is this a good recipe for a weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and easy recipe, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
While the recipe calls for 1 chopped garlic clove, you can substitute with garlic powder if fresh is unavailable, though fresh is recommended for fragrance.
Should I boil the whipping cream?
No, you should heat the dish until warmed and slightly thickened but avoid allowing the cream to boil.
How should the chicken be prepared?
The cooked chicken should be shredded into bite-sized pieces before being added to the skillet.
What type of oil is used for sautéing?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
What garnish is recommended?
Freshly chopped parsley is used as a garnish for a pop of color and fresh finish.
Is this recipe considered frugal?
Yes, it is tagged as a frugal recipe, especially useful for utilizing leftover cooked chicken.
How many leeks are needed?
You will need between 3 and 4 leeks.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
While the recipe focuses on leeks, you can certainly add other compatible vegetables like mushrooms or peas if desired.
Is this a one-pan dish?
Yes, the chicken and sauce are prepared entirely in one large skillet.
What part of the leek is discarded?
The dark green tops and the root ends are typically trimmed off and discarded or saved for stock.
How do I know when the garlic is ready?
Sauté the chopped garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.
Can I use heavy cream instead of whipping cream?
Yes, heavy cream is a suitable substitute for whipping cream and will yield an even richer sauce.
How long does the final heating take?
After adding the cream, heat the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The core ingredients (chicken, leeks, cream, spices) are gluten-free, but always check your specific ingredients and serve with a gluten-free grain like rice.
Does this recipe include salt and pepper?
Yes, salt and black pepper should be added to taste.
How much nutmeg is required?
The recipe calls for 1/8 teaspoon of nutmeg.
What should I do if the leeks have grit?
Rinse the sliced layers thoroughly under cold water to ensure all dirt and grit are removed.