chicken in creamy mushroom sauce

Introduction

Chicken in creamy mushroom sauce is a classic dish, loved for its rich flavor and comforting texture. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s easy to make, using readily available ingredients, and always a crowd-pleaser. Learn how to create this delectable meal with our comprehensive guide!

Main Sections

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best.
• Mushrooms: Cremini, button, or a mix of wild mushrooms.
• Heavy cream: Provides the richness and creamy texture.
• Chicken broth: Adds depth of flavor.
• Onion and Garlic: For the aromatic base.
• Butter: To sauté the vegetables and add richness.
• Olive oil: For browning the chicken.
• Fresh Thyme (Optional): Adds a fragrant, earthy note.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• All-purpose Flour (optional): For thickening the sauce, if needed.
• Dry White Wine (Optional): Adds a more complex flavour.

Preparing the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown properly.
2. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Creamy Mushroom Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until softened and browned, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally.
5. If using, deglaze the pan with dry white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine reduce slightly.
6. Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream.
7. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it thicken slightly. If needed, whisk in a slurry of flour and water (or cornstarch and water) to thicken the sauce to your desired consistency.
8. Add the fresh thyme (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

1. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet with the creamy mushroom sauce.
2. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. Spoon the sauce over the chicken to keep it moist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over pasta (linguine or fettuccine are great choices).
• Serve with mashed potatoes or rice.
• Pair with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.

Conclusion

Chicken in creamy mushroom sauce is a truly satisfying and versatile dish. Whether you’re looking for an elegant dinner or a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Experiment with different types of mushrooms and herbs to create your own unique variation. Enjoy!