Chicken Caruso

Savory Chicken Caruso Recipe with Italian Seasoning and Parmesan Cheese

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Caruso is a delicious and hearty dish that combines tender chicken breast strips with savory spaghetti sauce and Italian seasoning. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion meal.

History

Chicken Caruso is a classic Italian-American dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The recipe is believed to have originated in the United States, where Italian immigrants put their own twist on traditional Italian dishes. The combination of chicken, spaghetti sauce, and Italian seasoning creates a flavorful and satisfying meal that is sure to please.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) chicken breast strips, boned and skinned
0.5 tsp garlic salt
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
2 tbsp butter or margarine
2 cups sliced celery
1 x 15.5 oz (439 g) jar spaghetti sauce (2 cups)
1 tsp italian seasoning
3 cups hot cooked rice
Grated parmesan cheese (optional)

How to prepare

Season the chicken with garlic salt and pepper.
Cook the chicken in butter in a large skillet for about 2 minutes.
Add the celery and continue cooking until the celery is tender crisp.
Stir in the spaghetti sauce and Italian seasoning, then cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
Serve the mixture over hot rice.
If desired, sprinkle with cheese.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Use different types of pasta or grains, such as quinoa or couscous, instead of rice.
Substitute chicken thighs or drumsticks for the chicken breast strips for a different taste and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to season the chicken well with garlic salt and pepper for maximum flavor.

- Cooking the chicken in butter adds richness and depth to the dish.

- Simmering the chicken and sauce together allows the flavors to meld and develop.

- Serve the Chicken Caruso over hot cooked rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Caruso with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is also a great accompaniment to soak up the delicious sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Searing the chicken in butter adds flavor and helps to lock in moisture.

- Simmering the chicken and sauce together allows the flavors to meld and develop.

- Cooking the celery until tender crisp adds a nice crunch to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier option.

- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast strips.

- Use your favorite store-bought or homemade spaghetti sauce.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and reheat before serving.

- Cook the rice in advance and reheat when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Chicken Caruso in a large serving dish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. - Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken Caruso with a light and crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

- A side of garlic bread or a green salad complements the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- 350 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Rice: 45g per serving

Fats

- Total Fat: 12g

- Saturated Fat: 3g

Proteins

- Protein: 25g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

- Vitamin C: 15%

- Calcium: 6%

- Iron: 8%

Alergens

Contains dairy (butter) and gluten (spaghetti sauce)

Summary

Chicken Caruso is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying and delicious dish that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Chicken Caruso is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion meal. With tender chicken breast strips, savory spaghetti sauce, and Italian seasoning, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Chicken Caruso. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. Maria was known throughout the neighborhood for her delicious Italian dishes, and I always looked forward to our cooking sessions together.

As we sipped on our cups of espresso, Maria began to tell me about a new recipe she had learned from her grandmother back in Italy. She called it Chicken Caruso, named after a famous opera singer from their hometown. The dish was a combination of tender chicken breasts, creamy tomato sauce, and a generous helping of melted mozzarella cheese. My mouth watered just thinking about it.

Maria rolled up her sleeves and got to work, showing me each step of the process with precision and care. She began by pounding the chicken breasts flat, a technique she learned from her grandmother to ensure they cooked evenly. Next, she seasoned the chicken with a blend of garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes, giving it a spicy kick that would balance out the rich flavors of the sauce.

In a large skillet, Maria sautéed the chicken until it was golden brown on both sides, creating a crispy coating that would hold up well under the weight of the sauce. As the chicken cooked, she prepared the tomato sauce, using fresh tomatoes, onions, and basil from her garden. The scent of garlic and herbs filled the kitchen, mingling with the savory aroma of the chicken.

Once the sauce had simmered to perfection, Maria spooned it over the chicken breasts and topped them with a generous helping of mozzarella cheese. She covered the skillet and let the cheese melt, creating a gooey, irresistible topping that would make any mouth water. I could hardly contain my excitement as I watched her put the finishing touches on the dish.

Finally, Maria plated the Chicken Caruso and garnished it with fresh basil leaves. The colors of the dish were vibrant and inviting, with the red of the tomato sauce contrasting beautifully with the golden brown chicken and creamy white cheese. I took a bite, and my taste buds exploded with flavor. The chicken was tender and juicy, the sauce tangy and robust, and the cheese melted in my mouth like a dream.

I knew then that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself. Maria graciously shared her recipe with me, along with all of the tips and tricks she had learned from her grandmother. I practiced making Chicken Caruso in my own kitchen, tweaking the ingredients and techniques until I had perfected the dish to my liking.

Over the years, I have made Chicken Caruso for countless family gatherings, dinner parties, and special occasions. Each time I serve it, I am reminded of that warm summer day in Maria's kitchen, learning the recipe that would become a staple in my own culinary repertoire. I am grateful for the friendships and experiences that have brought me to this point, where I can share the joy of cooking with others.

As I sit down to enjoy a plate of Chicken Caruso with my loved ones, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the traditions and recipes that have been passed down through the generations. It is through food that we connect with our past, our culture, and each other, creating memories that will last a lifetime. And for that, I am truly thankful.