Belgian Chicken. Recipe

Title: Belgian Chicken with Creamy Potato Sauce

Introduction:
Belgian cuisine is known for its rich and flavorful dishes, and Belgian Chicken is no exception. This delicious recipe combines tender chicken, flavor-packed vegetables, and a creamy potato sauce to create a satisfying meal. In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step instructions on how to make Belgian Chicken. But before we begin, let's delve into the history of this dish and explore some interesting facts about Belgian cuisine.

History of Belgian Chicken:
Belgian Chicken, also known as Poulet à la Belge, has its roots in traditional Belgian cooking. Belgium, a country located in Western Europe, has a longstanding history of culinary expertise. With influences from neighboring countries such as France, Germany, and the Netherlands, Belgian cuisine has developed its own unique flavors and preparations.

Belgian Chicken Fun Facts:
1. Belgian cuisine is famous for its hearty portions and use of quality ingredients. Meat, especially poultry, plays a significant role in traditional Belgian dishes.
2. The potato is a staple ingredient in Belgian cuisine, and potatoes are often featured in various forms, be it fries, mashed potatoes, or in this case, creamy potato sauce.
3. Belgium is renowned for its range of artisanal beers, and it is common to pair Belgian Chicken with a refreshing glass of local brew.

Now, let's move on to the recipe itself.

Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Potato Sauce:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into small cubes
- 2 ounces butter
- 1 dessert-spoonful of flour
- 1 cup rich milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
- Hot cream, for finishing (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and set them aside.

2. Making the Creamy Potato Sauce:
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet used for cooking the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour to the melted butter and stir continuously for about a minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the rich milk, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps.
- Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked potatoes, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley into the sauce, stirring gently to coat the potatoes evenly.
- Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If desired, add a little hot cream to enhance the creaminess.
- Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Sautéing the Vegetables:
- In a separate pan, sauté the sliced onion, minced garlic, sliced red bell pepper, and sliced green bell pepper until they are softened and slightly caramelized.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and continue cooking until they are tender.
- Season the sautéed vegetables with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Final Assembly:
- Place the cooked chicken breasts on a serving platter.
- Spoon the sautéed vegetables around the chicken.
- Pour the creamy potato sauce over the chicken and vegetables.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a fresh and vibrant touch.

Serve the Belgian Chicken immediately while it's still hot, allowing everyone to enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors.

Similar Recipes:
If you enjoyed this Belgian Chicken recipe, you might want to try other Belgian dishes like "Carbonnade Flamande" (a beef and beer stew) or "Waterzooi" (a creamy chicken or fish soup/stew). Exploring the diverse range of Belgian cuisine will undoubtedly introduce you to an array of delicious and comforting meals.

Conclusion:
Belgian Chicken is a delightful dish that represents the heartiness and warmth of Belgian cuisine. With its succulent chicken, flavorful sautéed vegetables, and creamy potato sauce, it is sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your loved ones, prepare this recipe, and enjoy a taste of Belgian culinary traditions in the comfort of your own home.

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