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- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme) for garnish
How to Make Holiday Hug
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by cooking the chicken (if not using leftovers) and chopping the vegetables. You can use pre-cooked chicken to save time, or even swap it out for turkey if you have some leftovers from a festive meal. If you’re using rice or quinoa as a base, make sure it’s cooked and ready to go.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet or pan, heat a bit of oil and sauté the onions and garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes. This step helps bring out the flavors and makes your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Combine the Base Ingredients:
Once the vegetables are tender, add the cream cheese, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This will create the rich, flavorful base for your dish.
4. Add the Chicken, Rice, and Veggies:
Stir in the cooked chicken (shredded or cubed), rice, and peas. Keep stirring until everything is well-coated with the creamy mixture. Let it cook for another 5-7 minutes on medium heat to allow all the ingredients to come together.
5. Top with Cheese:
Once everything is heated through and blended, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Cover the pan and let it cook for a few more minutes until the cheese melts and becomes gooey and golden.
6. Season and Serve:
Taste your dish and add salt and pepper to your liking. Garnish with some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a touch of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately and prepare to be wowed!
Tips for Making the Perfect “Holiday Hug”
- Add Extra Veggies: While peas are a classic addition, you can swap them out or add additional vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
- Make It Ahead: If you’re preparing for a holiday gathering, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to bake it for a bit longer to ensure it’s heated through.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Swap out regular rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice to make it gluten-free and give it a fresh flavor.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or parmesan for a new flavor profile. A mixture of cheeses will give it a rich, complex taste.
Why Everyone Loves Holiday Hug
The reason why this dish has become such a hit in our family is that it strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and festive flair. The creamy texture, combined with the savory chicken, earthy vegetables, and gooey melted cheese, makes it incredibly satisfying. And the best part? It feels like something you’d find at a holiday feast but is simple enough to make any day of the week.
Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner for two or feeding a crowd during the holidays, “Holiday Hug” fits every occasion. It’s also a great dish to serve with a side of warm bread or a fresh salad, rounding out your meal.
Final Thoughts
“Holiday Hug” has quickly become one of my favorite go-to recipes, and with its comforting flavors and simple preparation, it’s easy to see why. Whether you make it for a family gathering, a casual dinner, or as a side dish at your next holiday feast, it’s sure to impress and bring a little extra warmth to your table. It’s like a big, festive hug in a dish, and who wouldn’t want that?
So, the next time you’re looking for a comforting meal that embodies the spirit of the season, give Holiday Hug a try. It’s a dish that’s guaranteed to bring people together and create lasting memories.
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