Creamy Mushroom Chicken
Introduction
If you’re looking to whip up a comforting yet elegant dish, this creamy mushroom chicken recipe featured on Salt and Lavender is a perfect choice. This creamy, soul-satisfying meal combines tender chicken with a rich mushroom sauce, making it ideal for any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting guests, it’s a versatile dish that’s sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken
4 medium chicken breasts or 2 large ones sliced in half lengthwise
Salt & Pepper
To taste
Olive Oil
1 tablespoon
Butter
1 tablespoon
Garlic
2 cloves minced
Cremini Mushrooms
7 ounces sliced
Chicken Broth
1 cup
Heavy Cream
1 cup
Flour
1 teaspoon
Fresh Parsley
Optional for garnish
Prep Time
This dish requires about 10 minutes of prep time, making it quick and easy to prepare, even on busy weeknights. The ingredients are simple to prepare, and slicing the mushrooms ahead can make things even faster.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for this creamy mushroom chicken is approximately 20 minutes, bringing the total time to just 30 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields 4 generous portions, making it a great choice for a family dinner or leftovers the next day.
This creamy mushroom chicken recipe truly brings convenience and flavor together in one pan. Make it today for a quick yet indulgent meal that everyone will love!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
– Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. If using large chicken breasts, consider slicing them in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces for even cooking.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
– Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms
– In the same skillet, add the butter and reduce the heat to medium. Once the butter has melted, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté the mushrooms for about 5-7 minutes or until they have released their water and browned slightly.
Step 4: Add Garlic
– Add the minced garlic to the mushrooms and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
– Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the Dijon mustard, followed by the heavy cream. Let the sauce bubble gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow it to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Season the Sauce
– Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 7: Add the Chicken Back
– Return the cooked chicken (along with any juices from the plate) to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and cook for another 3-5 minutes to warm the chicken through.
Step 8: Serve
– Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the creamy mushroom chicken immediately with your desired accompaniments, such as rice, pasta, or vegetables.
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Cooking Tips
– Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Note 2: Adjust Sauce Consistency
– If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to thin it out slightly. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and concentrate.
Note 3: Mushroom Selection
– Use any variety of mushrooms you prefer, such as cremini, white button, or a mix of wild mushrooms. Ensure they are fresh and cleaned properly before slicing.
Note 4: Substitutions
– Half-and-half can be used instead of heavy cream for a lighter dish, but the sauce may be slightly thinner. You can also use Greek yogurt or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Note 5: Storage and Reheating
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to loosen the sauce.
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Cook Techniques
Heat the Pan Properly
Ensure your skillet or frying pan is heated well before adding any ingredients to help achieve a good sear on the chicken.
Season the Chicken
Season the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance its flavor.
Sear the Chicken
Sear the chicken until golden brown on each side before setting it aside. This step not only adds flavor but also helps lock in moisture.
Cook the Mushrooms
To get the best flavor, cook the mushrooms until they release their water and start to brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan during this step.
Deglaze the Pan
Deglaze the pan with chicken broth or wine, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds depth to the sauce.
Simmer the Sauce
After adding the cream and sauce ingredients, let the mixture simmer to thicken and concentrate the flavors.
Finish Cooking the Chicken in the Sauce
Add the seared chicken back into the sauce and simmer until it’s fully cooked and has absorbed some of the flavors.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may take slightly longer to cook.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can experiment with dairy-free cream alternatives, though the flavor and texture may slightly vary.
What type of mushrooms work best?
Cremini or white mushrooms are ideal for this recipe, but you can experiment with other types like portobello or shiitake as well.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this dish?
This recipe is not ideal for freezing due to the cream-based sauce, as it may separate when thawed.
What can I serve with creamy mushroom chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or a side of steamed vegetables.
Conclusion
This Creamy Mushroom Chicken recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich, creamy sauce paired with tender chicken makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this easy-to-make recipe will impress everyone at the table.
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