Name: Honey Balsamic Lemon Brussels Sprout Chicken Goat Cheese Polenta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups Milk; 1 cup Dry Polenta; 2 tablespoons Butter; 4 ounces Goat Cheese; Salt and Pepper; 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast; 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; Salt + Pepper; 1/2 cup Balsamic Vinegar; 1/4 cup Honey; 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard; 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano; 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme; 1 pinch Crushed Red Pepper Flakes; 1 pound Shredded Brussels Sprouts; Juice of 1 Lemon; 1 bunch Fresh Basil; Goat Cheese or Parmesan

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The Honey Balsamic Lemon Brussels Sprout Chicken Goat Cheese Polenta is one of those recipes that instantly warms your heart and satisfies your taste buds. I remember the first time I made it; I was excited to host a small dinner party and wanted to impress my friends with something special. With the aroma of the sweet balsamic and the zesty lemon wafting through the kitchen, my friends couldn’t help but gather around, eager to taste what was cooking. The combination of tender chicken, crispy Brussels sprouts, and creamy goat cheese polenta creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. It’s perfect for a cozy gathering or a comforting weeknight dinner.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
550 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Large Pot, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

Why This Honey Balsamic Lemon Brussels Sprout Chicken Goat Cheese Polenta Is a Winner

It’s a Flavor Explosion

What I love most about the Honey Balsamic Lemon Brussels Sprout Chicken Goat Cheese Polenta is the incredible flavor profile. The sweet and tangy balsamic vinegar and honey glaze perfectly complements the savory chicken. Each bite is a delightful dance of flavors that makes your taste buds sing.

Perfectly Creamy Polenta

The creamy polenta is another standout feature of this dish. Made with just a few simple ingredients like milk, butter, and goat cheese, it adds a luxurious texture that pairs beautifully with the chicken and Brussels sprouts. You’ll find yourself spooning it onto your plate with every serving.

Easy to Prepare

This recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare. While the polenta simmers on the stove, you can focus on cooking the chicken and making the flavorful sauce. It’s a great way to impress without spending all day in the kitchen! Plus, the steps are straightforward enough for even novice cooks.

Healthy Ingredients

With fresh ingredients like Brussels sprouts, lemon, and basil, this dish is not only tasty but also nourishing. I love knowing that I’m serving my friends something that’s packed with vitamins and minerals while still being delicious.

Flexible and Versatile

The Honey Balsamic Lemon Brussels Sprout Chicken Goat Cheese Polenta can be tailored to your liking. Want to switch out the vegetables? Go for it! Prefer a different type of cheese? You can easily make that swap. This dish is all about making it your own.

Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a festive gathering, this recipe fits the bill. The presentation is beautiful, making it perfect for impressing guests, while also being comforting and familiar enough for family dinners.

What’s In This Honey Balsamic Lemon Brussels Sprout Chicken Goat Cheese Polenta

The ingredients in this dish work harmoniously to create a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The star players include the savory chicken, sweet balsamic vinegar, and creamy polenta. Together, they create a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

1 1/2 cups milk – This forms the creamy base of the polenta, giving it a rich texture.
1 cup dry polenta – A staple for creamy polenta, it thickens when cooked and adds a unique flavor.
2 tablespoons butter – For a velvety finish to the polenta.
4 ounces goat cheese – Adds a tangy flavor and creaminess to the dish.
Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor.
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast – The main protein in this dish, providing heartiness.
2 tablespoons olive oil – Used for sautéing the chicken, adding flavor and keeping it moist.
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar – Adds a sweet and tangy glaze to the chicken.
1/4 cup honey – Sweetens the balsamic sauce and balances the flavors.
1 tablespoon dijon mustard – Adds depth to the sauce.
1 teaspoon dried oregano – Brings an aromatic flavor to the dish.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – Complements the chicken beautifully.
Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes – Adds a touch of heat.
1 pound shredded Brussels sprouts – Adds texture and nutrition.
Juice of 1 lemon – Brightens the flavors of the dish.
1 bunch fresh basil – For garnish and added freshness.
Goat cheese or parmesan – Optional topping for added richness.

Directions for Honey Balsamic Lemon Brussels Sprout Chicken Goat Cheese Polenta

Making the Honey Balsamic Lemon Brussels Sprout Chicken Goat Cheese Polenta is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Start by preparing the polenta, then focus on the chicken and the delicious sauce. Follow these steps for a flawless dish:

In a medium-sized pot, bring 1 1/2 cups of water and 1 1/2 cups of milk to a low boil. As it heats, you can prepare for the addition of the polenta. Whisk it in slowly to avoid lumps. Keep the mixture on a low simmer.
Cook the polenta for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s creamy and smooth. Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and 4 ounces of goat cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
While the polenta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, add the chicken pieces, ensuring they’re evenly spaced in the pan.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes or until browned all over. It’s important to let them cook without moving them too much to achieve that beautiful golden color.
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, dijon mustard, dried oregano, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes. Once mixed, slowly pour the balsamic mixture into the skillet with the browned chicken.
Cook the chicken in the balsamic sauce for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken and coat the chicken evenly. Stir occasionally, being careful not to let the sauce stick to the bottom of the pan.
Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat slightly and add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet. Cook for another 3 to 5 minutes, tossing occasionally, until the Brussels sprouts have just begun to wilt.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the basil and the juice of 1 lemon. This brightens the flavors considerably and adds a fresh aroma.
To serve, divide the creamy polenta among low pasta bowls or plates. Top with the glazed chicken and sautéed Brussels sprouts, drizzling any remaining sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh basil and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.
Enjoy your Honey Balsamic Lemon Brussels Sprout Chicken Goat Cheese Polenta immediately, savoring every bite of this delicious meal!

Things Worth Knowing

Perfectly Cooked Chicken: To ensure the chicken is juicy and tender, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Give each piece enough space to sear properly.
Thickening the Sauce: Keep an eye on the balsamic sauce as it thickens, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. If it gets too thick, you can always add a splash of water or broth.
Veggie Variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Carrots, zucchini, or even kale can make great substitutes for Brussels sprouts.
Polenta Consistency: If you prefer a thicker polenta, simply reduce the amount of liquid. For a creamier version, add a bit more milk or water.
Storage Tips: Leftover Honey Balsamic Lemon Brussels Sprout Chicken Goat Cheese Polenta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Helpful Notes about Honey Balsamic Lemon Brussels Sprout Chicken Goat Cheese Polenta

When it comes to the Honey Balsamic Lemon Brussels Sprout Chicken Goat Cheese Polenta, there are always a few extra tips that can enhance your cooking experience:

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain the creaminess of the polenta.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but for best results, freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the polenta. This will help maintain the texture.
Pairing: Serve with a light salad or roasted vegetables to complement the richness of the dish.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the polenta ahead of time and reheat it just before serving for a quick meal.
Garnishing: Don’t forget to top your dish with extra fresh herbs or some grated cheese for an added touch.

Serving This Honey Balsamic Lemon Brussels Sprout Chicken Goat Cheese Polenta

Serving the Honey Balsamic Lemon Brussels Sprout Chicken Goat Cheese Polenta is an opportunity to get creative and impress your guests!

With a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness of the polenta.
Occasion: This dish is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries.
Seasonal Pairing: Serve with seasonal vegetables that complement the fall flavors, such as roasted carrots or squash.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Presentation: Serve in rustic bowls or on beautiful plates to enhance the dining experience. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top adds a lovely finishing touch.
Garnishing: Drizzle some extra balsamic glaze over the dish for an elegant touch before serving.

FAQ

Absolutely! While goat cheese adds a distinctive flavor and creaminess, you can easily swap it for another cheese such as feta or even cream cheese. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will alter the flavor profile slightly. For a more robust taste, try using parmesan or pecorino. The key is to choose a cheese that melts well and complements the other ingredients.

Yes, the Honey Balsamic Lemon Brussels Sprout Chicken Goat Cheese Polenta is a great dish to prepare in advance. You can cook the chicken and the sauce, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving. If you want to make the polenta ahead of time, it can also be reheated smoothly by adding a splash of milk or water to restore its creamy consistency.

This recipe is quite flexible when it comes to vegetables. You can add other vegetables such as roasted carrots, asparagus, or even sautéed kale. Just ensure that they are added to the skillet at the appropriate time, so they cook evenly and complement the dish. The idea is to add flavors and textures that harmonize with the balsamic sauce and chicken.

Definitely! The Honey Balsamic Lemon Brussels Sprout Chicken Goat Cheese Polenta is excellent for meal prep. You can portion the chicken and polenta into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just be mindful of how you reheat the polenta, as it can become thick; stir in a bit of milk if needed to bring back its creamy texture.

Conclusion

The Honey Balsamic Lemon Brussels Sprout Chicken Goat Cheese Polenta is a truly special dish that brings together a medley of flavors and textures, making it perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next dinner gathering; it’s bound to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy every bite and the wonderful company that comes with it!