Ingredients

For the Creamy Chicken:

• 2 chicken fillets, sliced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili pepper
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 250 ml chicken broth
• 150 ml cream
• Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Dill, chopped (for garnish)

For the Herbed Bulgur:

• 1 cup bulgur
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 red sweet pepper, diced
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian herbs

For the Fresh Cabbage Salad:

• 1/2 cabbage, shredded
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Green onion, chopped
• Parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Steps to Make It

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 4

Estimated Calories: 450 kcal per serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bulgur

1. In a medium pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped red onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the red pepper, tomato, and Italian herbs, cooking for another 3 minutes.
4. Add the bulgur and stir to coat in the butter and vegetable mixture.
5. Pour in 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer until the bulgur is tender and the water is absorbed, about 15-20 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Step 2: Cook the Creamy Chicken

1. In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
2. Add the mushrooms and garlic, stirring for another 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown.
3. Add the sliced chicken fillets, cooking until they are browned on all sides.
4. Sprinkle in the chili pepper, curry powder, and Italian herbs. Stir well to coat the chicken and vegetables.
5. Add the mustard and flour, stirring to create a roux that will thicken the sauce.
6. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
7. Let the mixture simmer until it starts to thicken, then reduce heat and add the cream. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and dill just before serving.

Step 3: Prepare the Fresh Cabbage Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, cucumber slices, chopped onion, minced garlic, green onion, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
4. Allow the salad to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Serve

• Plate the creamy chicken with a generous portion of herbed bulgur on the side and a scoop of the fresh cabbage salad. Enjoy this deliciously balanced meal!

Why This Recipe is Timeless

This dish stands out for its balanced flavors, nutritious ingredients, and beautiful presentation. Creamy chicken recipes have been cherished for generations as comfort food, offering a rich, satisfying flavor. Bulgur, an ancient grain, adds an earthy note and wholesome texture to the meal, while the fresh cabbage salad brings crispness and acidity to cleanse the palate. Combining these components creates a meal that is both timeless and adaptable, making it ideal for a range of occasions. This recipe offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, proving that hearty and healthy can go hand in hand.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 32 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugars: 4 g

FAQs

Q: Can I substitute bulgur with another grain?
A: Yes, quinoa, couscous, or rice make great substitutes. Each brings its unique texture, but any will complement the creamy chicken and fresh salad.

Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: You can substitute the cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version. Ensure your mustard is also dairy-free if needed.

Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: Add more chili pepper or even a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.

Q: Can I use different vegetables in the salad?
A: Feel free to add shredded carrots, radishes, or bell peppers. This recipe is very adaptable!

Tips for Making Perfect Creamy Chicken with Herbed Bulgur and Cabbage Salad

1. Cook the Bulgur Properly
   • Make sure to keep an eye on the water level while the bulgur simmers. It should absorb the water fully, becoming tender and fluffy.
2. Use Fresh Herbs and Spices
   • The dish shines when fresh parsley, dill, and Italian herbs are used, enhancing both the aroma and flavor of the final product.
3. Brown the Chicken Well
   • Browning the chicken pieces before adding them to the sauce adds depth and prevents the chicken from becoming too soft.
4. Toast the Flour and Mustard Mixture
   • Cooking the flour and mustard together prevents any raw flour taste, and the mustard adds tangy depth to the sauce.
5. Let the Salad Sit
   • Letting the cabbage salad sit for a few minutes after dressing allows the flavors to meld and makes the salad more flavorful.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store the creamy chicken, bulgur, and salad separately in airtight containers. They’ll last for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Reheat: The chicken can be reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of broth or water to thin it.
• Freeze: The creamy chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Defrost in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving. The bulgur and salad are best enjoyed fresh and are not recommended for freezing.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken with Herbed Bulgur and Fresh Cabbage Salad is a wonderful example of how delicious, nutritious, and visually appealing a meal can be. The creaminess of the chicken pairs perfectly with the nutty bulgur, while the fresh cabbage salad adds a crunchy, tangy balance to the rich flavors. This dish is filling without being heavy and packed with textures and flavors that keep each bite interesting. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this meal showcases a variety of complementary flavors and wholesome ingredients that make it a timeless choice. The versatility of the components allows you to mix and match or customize the dish according to personal preference, making it a staple recipe to come back to time and again.