Cream Cheese Dream: A Quick & Easy Dinner

A Fusion of Indian and Mediterranean Flavors

This dish is a harmonious blend of Indian and Mediterranean flavors, where the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese intertwines with the aromatic spices of saffron and cardamom. It’s a comforting yet sophisticated meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients:

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For the chicken:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon warm water

1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Rice:

1 cup basmati rice

2 cups chicken broth

1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon warm water

1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder

Salt to taste

Preparation:

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Total Time: 1 hour

For the Chicken:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken cubes with cream cheese, heavy cream, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, saffron water, cardamom powder, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

Image Source: allrecipes.com

For the Rice:

1. Cook the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, chicken broth, saffron water, cardamom powder, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed.

To Serve:

Serve the creamy chicken over a bed of fragrant saffron rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad.

A Fusion of Flavors

This dish is a testament to the beauty of culinary fusion. The creamy, rich sauce, reminiscent of Indian curries, is balanced by the aromatic spices of saffron and cardamom, commonly found in Middle Eastern cuisine. The simple yet elegant presentation pays homage to Mediterranean culinary traditions.

Each bite is a journey through diverse cultures, a testament to the power of food to connect people and traditions.