There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish combining the earthy flavors of mushrooms with chicken’s succulence in a creamy sauce. Creamy Chicken and Mushrooms is a recipe that promises to deliver a rich and satisfying experience in every bite. Perfect for those who appreciate a hearty meal, this dish is simple enough for a weeknight dinner and elegant enough to entertain guests. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and ease of preparation, making it a favorite for cooks of all levels. Whether you want to impress your family or treat yourself to a delicious meal, this Creamy Chicken and Mushrooms recipe will surely please.

Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Mushrooms

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
• 8 ounces of cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves
• 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Reduce the heat to medium in the same skillet and add the butter. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are golden and have released their moisture, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the mushrooms and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and fresh thyme leaves and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
5. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while continuously stirring to prevent lumps. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer and thicken slightly.
6. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it reaches a creamy consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if necessary.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling the pieces into the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the chicken is heated.
8. Garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

How to Prepare:

Ensure you have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. This includes slicing the mushrooms, chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and measuring the broth and cream. Having everything on hand will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Preparation Time:

Prep time for this recipe is approximately 15 minutes, which includes preparing the chicken and chopping the vegetables.

Servings: 4
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 490 per serving

Nutrition Facts:

Calories: 490 | Total Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Cholesterol: 155mg | Sodium: 390mg | Total Carbohydrates: 13g | Dietary Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Protein: 43g

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

How to Store Leftovers:

Leftover Creamy Chicken and Mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Food or Drink Pairings:

This dish pairs beautifully with a glass of Chardonnay, which complements the creamy sauce, or a light-bodied Pinot Noir, which can stand up to the earthiness of the mushrooms. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling apple cider. To round out the meal, serve with steamed green beans or a simple salad.

Recipe Swaps and Variations:

• Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Add a splash of white wine to the skillet after cooking the mushrooms for an extra depth of flavor.
• Swap out the chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat.
• Incorporate other vegetables, such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, for added color and nutrition.