Introduction:
This creamy chicken and mushroom recipe is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender chicken and savory mushrooms in a rich and velvety sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion, this dish is easy to prepare and can be paired with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread. The balance of flavors from the garlic, thyme, and cream makes this a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
12 oz (340g) fresh mushrooms, sliced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme sprigs)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the mushrooms and aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and sliced mushrooms, and sauté for another 5-6 minutes until the mushrooms release their juices and become golden brown.
Make the sauce: Add the chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any bits from the bottom. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes. Then, add the heavy cream and thyme, stirring to combine.
Thicken the sauce (optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk in 1 tablespoon of flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Combine the chicken and sauce: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your choice of side, such as pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Description:
This creamy chicken and mushroom recipe creates a harmonious blend of savory flavors. The richness of the cream complements the earthiness of the mushrooms, while the tender chicken adds a satisfying protein element. The dish is made even more flavorful by the caramelized onions, garlic, and thyme, giving it a hearty and aromatic quality. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a more formal gathering, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Tips:
For extra flavor: Add a splash of white wine after sautéing the mushrooms and let it reduce before adding the chicken broth.
For a low-carb version: Serve this dish with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Add some greens: Spinach or kale can be added towards the end of cooking for a burst of color and extra nutrients.
Make it gluten-free: Skip the flour for thickening or use a gluten-free flour blend if you prefer a thicker sauce.
Variations:
Mushroom variety: Use a mix of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or portobello for a more complex flavor profile.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Lemon zest: Add a teaspoon of fresh lemon zest to the sauce for a touch of brightness.
Cheese: Stir in some grated Parmesan cheese towards the end for an added depth of flavor.
Correction:
If you accidentally overcook the chicken, don’t worry! You can slice it thinly and add it back to the sauce to absorb more flavor, or serve it on top of the creamy mushroom sauce.
Enjoy:
Serve this creamy chicken and mushroom dish to your family and friends, and enjoy a delightful, flavorful meal that’s sure to impress!