Description
“Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
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Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt & black pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Mushrooms:
In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the sliced mushrooms until tender, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet.
Stir in the heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combine:
Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the top, and cook for an additional 2 minutes to reheat.
Serve:
Plate the chicken, pour the creamy mushroom sauce over it, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Enjoy this rich and flavorful dish, perfect for a comforting dinner!
Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect results, follow this detailed guide. First, pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel; this ensures a good sear. Season generously. When searing, do not move the chicken for the first 4-5 minutes to develop a golden crust. Use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165°F. After removing the chicken, add the butter and mushrooms. Let the mushrooms cook without stirring too often so they brown nicely. When adding the broth, use a wooden spoon to thoroughly deglaze the pan, incorporating all the flavorful bits. Let the sauce simmer gently after adding the cream and cheeses; a rapid boil may cause the sauce to break.
Serving Suggestions
This rich dish pairs beautifully with sides that can absorb the luxurious sauce. Serve over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or steamed white rice. For a lighter option, try roasted asparagus, green beans, or a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A crusty baguette is also perfect for sopping up every last drop of the sauce.
How-to Summary
In summary: Season and sear chicken until cooked, then set aside. In the same pan, sauté mushrooms and garlic. Deglaze with chicken broth, then add heavy cream and cheeses to create a thick sauce. Return chicken to the skillet, coat with sauce, and warm through. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of mushroom?
Absolutely. Cremini or baby bella mushrooms add a deeper flavor, while shiitake offer an umami boost. Even standard white button mushrooms work perfectly.
How can I make this sauce less heavy?
Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly thinner. You can also use a light sprinkle of cheese rather than the full amount.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can sear the chicken and cook the mushroom sauce base ahead. Store separately. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, add the cheeses to melt, then combine with the chicken to finish.
My sauce seems too thin. How can I thicken it?
Let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce. Alternatively, create a quick slurry by mixing 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and whisk it into the simmering sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Sear chicken in batches if your skillet is too small. Overcrowding steams the chicken instead of creating a sear.
- High Heat for the Sauce: After adding cream and cheese, maintain a gentle simmer. Boiling can cause the sauce to curdle or separate.
- Underseasoning: Season the chicken well and taste the sauce before serving. Cream-based dishes often need more salt than you think.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheeses contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. For a smoother sauce, always grate your own cheese.
Conclusion
This Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is a quintessential comfort food dish that feels gourmet but is straightforward to prepare. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a consistently delicious and impressive meal. Its versatility in pairing with various sides and its rich, satisfying flavor make it a perfect recipe for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy the process and the delightful results.