Slovenian Walnut Chicken

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts (500g / 1.1lb) 4 chicken breasts (500g / 1.1lb)
• 1 teaspoon salt (5g) 1 teaspoon salt (5g)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (5g) 1 teaspoon paprika (5g)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (2g) 1 teaspoon dried thyme (2g)
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (2g) 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (2g)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml) 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup walnuts, ground (120g) 1 cup walnuts, ground (120g)
• 1 cup chicken broth (240ml) 1 cup chicken broth (240ml)
• 1 cup heavy cream (240ml) 1 cup heavy cream (240ml)
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 32g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 7g, 2g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, mix together the salt, paprika, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.
2. 2.
   Rub the chicken breasts with the spice mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. 3.
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. 4.
   In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
5. 5.
   Add the ground walnuts to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
6. 6.
   Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. 7.
   Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
8. 8.
   Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
9. 9.
   Serve the Slovenian Walnut Chicken hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Walnuts — Make sure to use fresh walnuts for the best flavor. Toasting them lightly before grinding will enhance their nuttiness.

Tips & Tricks

• For a healthier version, you can substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut cream.
• Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
• Serve the Slovenian Walnut Chicken with a side of roasted potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry to the skillet and cook until the desired consistency is reached.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Slovenian Walnut Chicken on a bed of fluffy rice or alongside buttered noodles. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for an added touch of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the chicken breasts on a platter and drizzle the walnut sauce over them. Sprinkle some crushed walnuts on top for an elegant and appetizing presentation.