Chicken Milano

A Decadent Italian-Inspired Delight

Introduction

If you’re craving a restaurant-quality meal that combines creamy indulgence with the fresh, bold flavors of Italian cuisine, look no further than Chicken Milano. This dish is a perfect balance of rich, garlicky cream sauce, tender pan-seared chicken, and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, all served over a bed of fettuccine. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a special family meal, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy yet Elegant – Despite its luxurious flavors, Chicken Milano is straightforward and quick to prepare.
  • Perfect for Special Occasions – The creamy sauce and sun-dried tomatoes create a dish that feels gourmet.
  • Comforting & Filling – The combination of pasta, cream, and chicken makes it a satisfying meal.
  • Great for Meal Prep – Leftovers store well, making it ideal for planning ahead.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken and Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup chicken broth, divided
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

For the Pasta:

  • 8 ounces dry fettuccine pasta

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large saucepan
  • Large skillet
  • Slotted spatula
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Strainer

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

  1. In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and ¾ cup of chicken broth.
  4. Increase heat to medium and bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, or until tomatoes are tender.
  6. Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently.
  7. Simmer until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Cook chicken for about 4 minutes per side, pressing occasionally with a slotted spatula.
  4. Once fully cooked (no longer pink inside), transfer to a cutting board and cover to keep warm.
  5. Discard excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Enhance the Sauce

  1. Pour ¼ cup of chicken broth into the same skillet.
  2. Bring to a boil, stirring to deglaze the pan.
  3. Add this mixture to the prepared cream sauce and stir in fresh basil.
  4. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
  2. Add fettuccine and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until al dente.
  3. Drain and toss with 3-4 tablespoons of the sauce.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

  1. Slice the chicken breasts diagonally into 2-3 pieces each.
  2. Reheat the sauce gently if needed.
  3. Serve pasta on plates, top with chicken, and drizzle with sauce.

Recipe Tips and Variations

Shortcuts

  • Use pre-cooked chicken breast for a quicker meal.
  • Substitute store-bought sun-dried tomato cream sauce if short on time.

Variations

  • Protein Swap: Try shrimp or salmon instead of chicken.
  • Lower Fat Option: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all ingredients are GF-certified.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • For best results, keep pasta and sauce separate.

Reheating

  • Reheat sauce over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if too thick.
  • Warm pasta separately, then combine before serving.

Best Food and Drink Pairings

Side Dishes

  • Garlic bread
  • Roasted asparagus
  • Mixed green salad with balsamic vinaigrette

Wine Pairing

  • White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
  • Red Wine: A light-bodied Pinot Noir complements the dish beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, but fresh tomatoes won’t provide the same depth of flavor. If using fresh, consider roasting them first for a richer taste.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance, then reheat and assemble just before serving.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter option, try half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a teaspoon of cornstarch.

Conclusion

Chicken Milano is a dish that brings restaurant-style elegance to your dinner table with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just indulging in comfort food, this creamy, flavorful meal is sure to impress. If you loved this recipe, be sure to share it with friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!

Leave a Comment