Creamy Tarragon Chicken Bake

This creamy tarragon chicken bake is a comforting and easy family meal made with tender chicken breasts, asparagus, cherry tomatoes and red onion in a light dairy free sauce.

It is gluten free, egg free and dairy free, making it a helpful dinner option for families managing food allergies or sensitivities.

Serves: 4 | Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 30 minutes | Total time: minutes

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tbsp rice flour

• 300ml soya milk

• 4 chicken breasts, skin removed

• 2 red onions, cut into wedges

• 250g punnet cherry tomatoes, halved

• 250g asparagus spears, blanched

• 1 tsp caster sugar

• 1 tbsp white wine vinegar

• 150ml vegetable stock

• 3 tbsp chopped tarragon

• 4 tbsp gluten free breadcrumbs

• 1 tbsp grated dairy free and lactose free cheese

Method

1. Mix half the olive oil and the rice flour in a saucepan, off the heat. Slowly blend in the soya milk, making sure the mixture is well combined before heating. Bring the sauce slowly to the boil, whisking constantly, then simmer for 1 minute. Remove from the heat, cover with greaseproof paper and set aside.

2. Heat the oven to 200°C, 180°C fan forced, or gas mark 6. Heat the remaining oil in a frying pan. Add the chicken and fry for 2 to 3 minutes, or until browned. The chicken will not be cooked through at this stage. Transfer the chicken to an ovenproof gratin dish.

3. Add the onions to the pan and fry for 2 to 3 minutes. Spoon the onions over the chicken, then top with the cherry tomatoes and asparagus. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.

4. Add the sugar and white wine vinegar to the pan. Stir over medium heat until the sugar turns a dark caramel colour, then add the vegetable stock. Bring to the boil and simmer for 1 minute.

5. Whisk the caramel mixture into the soya milk sauce until fully blended. Season to taste, then stir through the chopped tarragon.

6. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Sprinkle with gluten free breadcrumbs and dairy free cheese.

7. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden.

Serving suggestion

Serve warm with rice, mashed potato, roasted vegetables or a simple side salad.

Recipe note

Always check ingredient labels carefully to make sure the products used are suitable for your dietary needs.

Source: Health Food Guide Australia

As with all foods, individual triggers can vary. If you or your child have food sensitivities, adjust ingredients as needed.

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