Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Description:

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is a rich and comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts or thighs smothered in a velvety, savory mushroom sauce. The sauce, made with fresh mushrooms, garlic, and cream, is perfectly balanced with herbs and a splash of white wine. This dish is ideal for a cozy dinner and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.

Origin:

This dish draws inspiration from classic French cuisine, where creamy sauces are often paired with poultry and mushrooms for a luxurious and comforting meal. It has become popular in many countries due to its rich flavors and easy-to-make nature.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)

For the Creamy Mushroom Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or a mix)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, for added depth of flavor)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme on both sides.
2. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, covering it with foil to keep warm.

Make the Creamy Mushroom Sauce:

4. In the same skillet, add the butter and olive oil. Once melted, add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until softened.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5-6 minutes, until they release their moisture and become tender and golden.
7. If using, pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine cook off for 2-3 minutes.
8. Add the heavy cream and Dijon mustard (if using), and bring the sauce to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve:

10. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and spoon the creamy mushroom sauce over it. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to reheat the chicken and allow the flavors to meld together.
11. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for Success:

• For added depth of flavor, you can use a mix of wild mushrooms or add a splash of chicken broth along with the cream.
• If you don’t have white wine, you can skip it or use a splash of lemon juice or chicken broth for acidity.
• Ensure the chicken is cooked through but not overdone by checking the internal temperature.
• You can make this dish ahead of time by preparing the sauce separately and reheating it with the chicken just before serving.

Recommendations:

• Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the creamy sauce. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad would complete the meal.
• This dish pairs wonderfully with a light white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate for 4 servings):

• Calories: ~400
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 700mg

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is a wonderfully rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home. ️