Chicken Breast with Mushrooms: A Simple, Flavorful Recipe
This recipe delivers a delicious and healthy meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's simple to follow, even for beginner cooks, and uses readily available ingredients. The combination of savory chicken breast and earthy mushrooms creates a satisfying and flavorful dish that's sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose high-quality chicken for the best taste and texture.
- 8 oz mushrooms: Cremini, button, or shiitake mushrooms all work well. Feel free to experiment with different types!
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Provides healthy fats and helps brown the chicken and mushrooms.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A key ingredient for enhancing the savory notes.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and richness to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional): Enhances the flavor complexity; you can substitute with more chicken broth if preferred.
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season generously for optimal flavor.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. This helps them brown properly.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Add the Mushrooms: Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they have softened and released their moisture, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally.
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Create the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using). Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the thyme leaves. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Serve: Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. Spoon the mushroom sauce over the sliced chicken breasts. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this dish with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
- For a more complete meal, consider adding a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Creamy sauce: Stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots, along with the mushrooms.
- Make it a one-pan meal: Roast the chicken and vegetables together on a sheet pan for an easier cleanup.
This simple chicken breast and mushroom recipe is a versatile and delicious meal that you can easily adapt to your taste preferences. Enjoy!
