Description
Garlic Mushroom Chicken
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup sliced mushrooms (white or cremini)
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
Season the chicken: Sprinkle chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). Remove and set aside.
Sauté the mushrooms and garlic: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and thyme, cooking for 1 minute more.
Make the sauce: Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream. For a thicker sauce, whisk in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over it, and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Serve: Plate the chicken with the mushroom sauce and garnish with fresh parsley. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 340 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof result. Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel; this ensures a perfect sear. Season generously. When searing, do not move the chicken for the first few minutes to allow a golden crust to form. After removing the chicken, add the butter to the hot skillet. Let the mushrooms cook without stirring initially to encourage browning. When adding the garlic, stir constantly for just one minute to prevent burning. To incorporate the flour without lumps, sprinkle it over the mushrooms and stir for 30 seconds before slowly adding the broth and cream. Let the sauce simmer until it coats the back of a spoon before returning the chicken to the pan.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy chicken dish pairs beautifully with sides that can soak up the delicious sauce. Serve it over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or steamed jasmine rice. For a lighter option, try it with 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 mopping up every last bit of sauce from the plate.
How-to Summary
In summary, this one-pan meal is a simple process: season and sear chicken until golden, then set aside. In the same pan, sauté mushrooms and garlic, then create a creamy sauce with broth, cream, and optional flour. Return the chicken to the skillet to warm through in the sauce, garnish, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely. Bone-in, skin-on thighs will add more flavor and require a slightly longer cooking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
How can I make this dish dairy-free? Substitute the butter with olive oil and replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a rich, dairy-free alternative.
My sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it? Create a quick slurry by mixing one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Whisk it into the simmering sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, you can cook the entire dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in a covered skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing the chicken, as this will steam the meat instead of creating a flavorful crust. Do not burn the garlic by adding it too early; add it last to the mushrooms for just a brief cook. Rushing the sauce by cranking up the heat can cause the cream to separate or scorch. Finally, ensure you let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing.
Conclusion
This Garlic Mushroom Chicken recipe is a testament to how a few simple ingredients can create an extraordinary and comforting meal in just one pan. Its creamy, savory sauce and tender chicken make it a versatile dish perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual entertaining. By following the detailed guide and tips provided, you can easily master this recipe and adapt it to your taste. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss.