Creamed Chicken or Turkey Recipe π
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Description:
Here’s a delightful recipe to make the most of any leftover chicken or turkey you have on hand. It’s a versatile dish that can be served over egg noodles, rice, or even atop a buttery puff pastry shell for an elegant dinner party twist. Feel free to add your favorite veggies like mushrooms and peas to enhance the creamy goodness of this dish. Easy to prepare and absolutely delicious, this creamed chicken or turkey recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen!
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Onion |
| 1/2 | Celery Stalk |
| 1/4 | Cup Butter |
| 1/4 | Cup Flour |
| 1 1/2 | Cups Chicken Broth |
| 2 1/2 | Cups Cooked Chicken or Turkey, Cubed |
| 1 | Cup Half-and-Half Cream |
| 3/4 | Cup Swiss Cheese, Shredded |
| 1/4 | Cup Parmesan Cheese, Grated |
| 1 – 2 | Tablespoons Pimiento, Chopped |
| To Taste | Salt and Pepper |
Instructions:
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Saute Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, saute the diced onion and celery in butter until they turn tender and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
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Create Roux: Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly to create a smooth paste with the butter and aromatics. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
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Add Broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then let it lightly bubble for about 1 minute, allowing it to thicken.
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Incorporate Creaminess: Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the half-and-half cream, stirring continuously. Follow it up with the shredded Swiss cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped pimientos, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until the cheeses are melted into a luxuriously creamy sauce.
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Add Chicken or Turkey: Gently fold in the cubed cooked chicken or turkey, making sure every piece is coated in the creamy goodness. Let it all simmer together for a few minutes until heated through.
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Serve and Enjoy: Your Creamed Chicken or Turkey is now ready to be enjoyed! Spoon it generously over a bed of fluffy rice or egg noodles, or get fancy by serving it on a puff pastry shell. Top with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper for a finishing touch of flavor.
Recipe Tips:
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Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables. Mushrooms, peas, diced carrots, or bell peppers all make excellent additions.
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Herbaceous Touch: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives can add a burst of freshness to the creamy sauce. Simply chop them finely and sprinkle over the dish before serving.
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Crunchy Topping: For added texture, consider topping your Creamed Chicken or Turkey with a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
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Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish reheats beautifully, so it’s perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Freezer Friendly: You can also freeze this Creamed Chicken or Turkey for longer storage. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, label with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently on the stovetop.
Enjoy this comforting and satisfying Creamed Chicken or Turkey dish with loved ones, and savor every creamy, flavorful bite! π²β¨
