Creamy Basil Chicken with Polenta Sauce

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €18.80 · €3.13/serving

• 4 cups rich and flavorful chicken stock or brothEst. price €0.80–€2.40
• 2 tablespoons premium extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) (swirl around the pan twice for even distribution)Est. price €0.40–€1.20
• 4 6-ounce boneless, skinless chicken breast halvesEst. price €8.00–€16.00
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to tasteEst. price €0.02–€0.05
• 1/4 teaspoon fiery crushed red pepper flakesEst. price €0.08–€0.15
• 1 large crimson red onion, thinly slicedEst. price €0.60–€1.20
• 5 cloves of fresh garlic, chopped (crush gently to release aroma)Est. price €0.25–€0.50
• 1 cup quick-cooking artisanal polenta (found in specialty foods aisles)Est. price €1.50–€3.00
• 1/2 cup luscious mascarpone cheeseEst. price €1.75–€3.50
• 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (a generous handful)Est. price €1.50–€3.00

Steps

1. 1

   To achieve an extra creamy polenta, start by bringing 3 cups of chicken stock to a boil in a sauce pot. If the stock boils before you're prepared to add the polenta, simply reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer until needed.

2. 2

   As the stock is heating up, prepare the fresh tomato and basil chicken. In a large nonstick skillet, warm up some extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet and sauté for approximately 3 to 4 minutes until it develops a light golden brown color. Push the chicken to one side of the skillet, then introduce the onions and garlic into the empty space. Sauté them all together for another 3 minutes. Pour in the remaining cup of chicken stock and simmer until it reduces by half, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes more.

3. 3

   As the sauce simmers down, blend the instant polenta into the chicken stock boiling in a saucepan until it thickens. Incorporate the mascarpone and Parmigiano cheeses, then season with salt and pepper. Aim for a slightly creamy texture with the polenta. If it becomes too thick, add more stock to reach desired consistency.

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• Cultural note

  Creamy Basil Chicken with Polenta Sauce is a modern twist on traditional Italian flavors. Mascarpone cheese and Parmigiano-Reggiano are classic Italian ingredients that add richness to the dish, reflecting the influence of Italian cuisine.

• Seasonal note

  Basil is best during the summer months when it's abundant and flavorful. Tomatoes are in season during late summer, making this dish ideal for that time of year.

• Health note

  This dish is a good source of protein and contains essential vitamins like A and C from the tomatoes and basil. However, it is high in saturated fat and sodium, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.