Light Chicken Blanquette with Mushrooms and Carrots
This Light Chicken Blanquette is a refined and comforting French dish made with tender poached chicken in a delicate, velvety sauce. Unlike traditional versions, this lighter recipe reduces heavy cream while maintaining its rich, aromatic flavor. Slow-cooked with mushrooms, carrots, onions, and a fragrant broth, the dish is finished with a touch of light cream or yogurt for a silky texture. Served over rice or with crusty bread, this dish offers a perfect balance of elegance and heartiness without being too heavy.
Ingredients
- 1 Ib boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 medium carrots peeled and sliced
- 2 cup mushrooms sliced
- 11/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup ow-fat cream or whole milk
- 1 tablespoons flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Cook the Vegetables: Stir in the carrots and mushrooms, cooking for another 5 minutes.
- Thicken the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Simmer: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add the thyme and bay leaf, then bring to a gentle simmer.
- Combine Everything: Return the chicken to the pot and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in the cream or milk, season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf and discard. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Notes
Why You Will Love Light Chicken Blanquette with Mushrooms and Carrots
Light Chicken Blanquette with Mushrooms and Carrots is a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated, blending traditional French culinary elegance with a lighter, healthier twist. There are countless reasons why this dish is a go-to meal, from its balanced flavors to its nutritional benefits. Here’s why you’ll find it irresistible:
1. Comfort Meets EleganceThis dish is the epitome of cozy, home-cooked comfort food with a French flair. The blanquette, traditionally a creamy white stew, has been adapted to a lighter version that still retains all the heartwarming qualities. The tenderness of poached chicken, delicate mushrooms, and sweet carrots, all enveloped in a silky sauce, creates a perfectly balanced bite every time. The dish offers layers of flavor without being overly rich, making it perfect for any occasion. 2. Bursting with Flavor
One of the standout qualities of this dish is its depth of flavor. The chicken, poached gently to retain its moisture, absorbs all the delicate notes of the broth. Mushrooms add an earthy, umami element, while carrots contribute natural sweetness and a pop of color. A squeeze of lemon juice and fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley brighten the entire dish, creating a dynamic flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more. 3. Nutritional Benefits
Light Chicken Blanquette with Mushrooms and Carrots is not just delicious—it’s packed with nutritional value. Chicken is a lean source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and B vitamins, which support immune function and energy production. Carrots bring a healthy dose of vitamin A for eye health, along with fiber to aid digestion. This version of the blanquette swaps out heavy cream for a lighter alternative, such as Greek yogurt or a cornstarch-thickened broth, ensuring the meal is lower in fat without sacrificing texture or flavor. 4. Versatile and Adaptable
Another reason to love this dish is its versatility. You can make it gluten-free by using cornstarch instead of flour or dairy-free by substituting coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. It can be served over rice, mashed potatoes, or even quinoa, depending on your preference. Want more vegetables? Add green peas, pearl onions, or leeks for extra layers of flavor and texture. 5. Easy to Prepare Yet Impressive
While it may sound fancy, Light Chicken Blanquette is surprisingly easy to prepare. Most of the cooking is done in one pot, which minimizes cleanup. Despite its simplicity, the dish has a “wow” factor that makes it ideal for entertaining guests or serving as a weeknight family dinner. In summary, Light Chicken Blanquette with Mushrooms and Carrots is a dish that combines health, flavor, and comfort. It offers a delightful balance of lightness and richness, making it an ideal choice for those who crave hearty yet nourishing meals. One bite, and you’ll see why this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table.
Tips for Cooking a Perfect Blanquette
- Sear for Flavor:
Start by searing the chicken in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown. This locks in the flavor and prevents the chicken from drying out. Remove and set aside before cooking the vegetables. - Cook Vegetables Gently:
Sauté onions, carrots, garlic, and mushrooms in the same pan to absorb the chicken’s flavors. Avoid overcooking the vegetables—aim for tender but not mushy. - Build the Roux Correctly:
Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well for 1–2 minutes to create a roux. This step is essential for thickening the sauce without lumps. - Layering Flavors:
Slowly add chicken stock, whisking constantly to prevent clumps. Add the bay leaf and thyme, and return the chicken to the pan. Simmer until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender. - Lighten the Sauce:
Instead of heavy cream, use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk for creaminess. Add lemon juice at the end for brightness and balance.
Serving Tricks for a Memorable Presentation
- Elegant Plating:
Serve the blanquette over a bed of fluffy rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce. Arrange chicken slices neatly, spoon the vegetables on top, and drizzle with sauce. - Herb Garnish:
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the dish for a burst of color and a fragrant finish. - Zest It Up:
Grate lemon zest over the dish right before serving to add freshness and vibrancy. - Crunchy Contrast:
Serve with a side of toasted baguette slices or crusty bread to provide a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy blanquette. - Portion Control:
For dinner parties, plate individual servings for a more refined presentation. If serving family-style, transfer the blanquette to a wide, shallow serving dish to showcase the vibrant vegetables.
Notes & Tips
- For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch instead of flour.
- Adjust the amount of cream or milk for a richer or lighter sauce.
- Pair with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or sautéed greens for a complete meal.