Creamy Tarragon Chicken with Leeks
Indulge in the flavors of this delectable Creamy Tarragon Chicken with Leeks, a healthy yet satisfying dish perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a light meal without compromising on taste. This recipe features tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts cooked to perfection and served with a luscious creamy sauce made from evaporated skim milk, zesty Dijon mustard, and aromatic tarragon. The sautéed leeks add a delightful crunch and subtle sweetness to the dish. Ideal for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike, this dish is both quick to prepare and pleasing to the palate. Enjoy guilt-free elegance in every bite!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Boneless skinless chicken breast halves
4 (Trimmed and pounded if necessary)
Leek
1 cup (Sliced (about 2 leeks))
Evaporated skim milk
3/4 cup (None)
Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon (None)
Dried tarragon
1/2 teaspoon (None)
Cornstarch
1 teaspoon (None)
Instructions
1
Begin by spraying a large skillet with nonstick cooking spray and placing it over medium heat.
2
Add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the juices run clear. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm on a plate, covered with foil.
3
In the same skillet, add the sliced leeks and sauté for about 3 minutes over medium to medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until they are crisp-tender.
4
In a separate bowl, combine the evaporated skim milk, Dijon mustard, dried tarragon, and cornstarch, whisking until smooth.
5
Pour the mixture into the skillet with the sautéed leeks and bring to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.
6
Once the sauce reaches a boil, continue to stir and cook for about 1 minute until the sauce thickens slightly.
7
Finally, add the warm chicken to the skillet, coating it with the creamy leek sauce, and heat through for 1-2 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Tarragon Chicken with Leeks?
It is a healthy, elegant dish featuring tender chicken breasts served in a light, creamy sauce made with evaporated skim milk, Dijon mustard, and tarragon.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
The main ingredients include boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced leeks, evaporated skim milk, Dijon mustard, dried tarragon, and cornstarch.
How should the chicken be prepared before cooking?
The chicken breasts should be trimmed of fat and pounded if necessary to ensure even thickness for cooking.
How do I prepare the leeks?
You will need about 1 cup of sliced leeks, which is roughly equivalent to two leeks.
Is this recipe considered low-fat?
Yes, it is described as a healthy, guilt-free dish using nonstick spray and evaporated skim milk to keep fat content lower.
How long does it take to cook the chicken breasts?
The chicken should be cooked for approximately 6 to 7 minutes per side over medium heat.
What type of mustard is recommended for the sauce?
The recipe specifically calls for Dijon mustard to provide a zesty flavor profile.
Can I use fresh tarragon instead of dried?
Yes, though generally, you use three times more fresh herbs than dried; for this recipe, you could use about 1.5 teaspoons of fresh tarragon.
What is the purpose of cornstarch in this recipe?
Cornstarch is used as a thickening agent to give the sauce a luscious, creamy consistency.
How long should the leeks be sautéed?
The leeks should be sautéed for about 3 minutes until they are crisp-tender.
What is the cooking method for the sauce?
The milk, mustard, tarragon, and cornstarch are whisked together, added to the skillet, and brought to a gentle boil while stirring.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and is ideal for busy weeknight dinners.
Why is evaporated skim milk used?
Evaporated skim milk provides a rich, creamy texture similar to heavy cream but with significantly less fat.
Should I cover the chicken after removing it from the skillet?
Yes, cover the chicken with foil on a warm plate to keep it moist and hot while you prepare the sauce.
Can I substitute the leeks?
While leeks provide a unique mild sweetness, you could substitute them with green onions or shallots if necessary.
What heat setting should I use for the chicken?
The chicken should be cooked over medium heat to prevent burning while ensuring it cooks through.
Is there any added sugar in this recipe?
No, this recipe does not contain any added sugars.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
The dish is savory and aromatic, with the herbal notes of tarragon balanced by the tang of Dijon mustard and the sweetness of leeks.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The ingredients are generally gluten-free (cornstarch is a gluten-free thickener), but you should always check the label on your Dijon mustard.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, though the cooking time may need to be adjusted and the nutritional profile will change.
What should I serve with this chicken?
It pairs well with light sides such as steamed green beans, roasted potatoes, or a bed of wild rice.
How long should I heat the chicken in the sauce?
Add the chicken back to the skillet for 1-2 minutes at the end to heat it through and coat it with the sauce.
Do I need to grease the skillet?
The recipe recommends using a nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking without adding extra oil.
Can this dish be frozen?
While possible, cream-based sauces using cornstarch can sometimes separate or change texture when frozen and reheated.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?
Yes, it offers a level of elegance and flavor suitable for hosting while remaining simple to prepare.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, mushrooms or spinach would make excellent additions to the creamy leek sauce.
Who is the original source or style of this recipe?
The tags indicate that this recipe is in the style of or associated with Betty Crocker.