Creamy Mushroom Chicken: A Comfort Food Classic
Are you craving a rich, flavorful, and comforting meal? Look no further than this creamy mushroom chicken recipe! This dish is perfect for a cozy night in, a family dinner, or even a special occasion. It's surprisingly easy to make, yet delivers restaurant-quality taste. Let's dive into the details!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This creamy mushroom chicken recipe requires readily available ingredients, making it a great option for a weeknight meal.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Provides a healthy base for sautéing.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced: Provides an earthy and umami flavor. You can substitute with button mushrooms or a mix of different varieties.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for a flavorful sauce.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional): Deglazes the pan and adds a subtle complexity. Chicken broth can be substituted.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the creamy, luscious sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and balances the richness of the cream.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to perfection.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Adds an herbaceous note.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these easy steps to create your delicious creamy mushroom chicken:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the mushrooms and garlic and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender.
Step 3: Create the Sauce:
If using white wine, add it to the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a minute or two until slightly reduced. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth until smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer:
Return the chicken to the skillet. Stir in the thyme, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dish.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of cremini and shiitake mushrooms.
- Add a splash of lemon juice at the end for brightness.
- Spice things up with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Use different herbs like rosemary or oregano instead of thyme.
- Add cooked vegetables like peas or carrots for a more complete meal.
This creamy mushroom chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its versatility allows for customization to your preferences, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal every time. Enjoy!
