Mushroom Chicken

This Mushroom Chicken recipe is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with a rich, creamy mushroom sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this meal stands out due to its comforting flavors and ease of preparation. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of mushrooms, garlic, and cream creates a savory sauce that elevates the chicken to new heights.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up all that amazing sauce!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe makes four servings, making it great for leftovers or meal prepping for the week.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy texture and hearty flavors, everyone at your table will love this Mushroom Chicken.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or frying pan
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or frying pan: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the chicken.
• Chef’s knife: Sharp knives make slicing mushrooms and mincing garlic quick and easy.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect flavor balance in the sauce.

Ingredients

This Mushroom Chicken recipe has juicy chicken that’s smothered in a thick and creamy mushroom sauce that encompasses the flavor and consistency of gravy.

For the Chicken

• 10 oz. mushrooms (button or baby bella work well)
• 2 Tablespoons salted butter
• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt/Pepper

For the Sauce

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 3-4 Tablespoons olive oil
• 2 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 chicken bouillon cube or 1 tsp better than bouillon
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (can sub Worcestershire sauce)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon EACH: mustard powder, dried thyme
• ½ cup dry white wine (see notes)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 Tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/3 cup heavy cream

How to Make Mushroom Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cleaning the mushrooms with a damp cloth. Slice them thinly. Mince the garlic cloves. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the salted butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are tender and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In the same skillet, add olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from heat when done.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour with beef broth until smooth. Return mushrooms to the skillet along with this mixture. Stir in soy sauce, onion powder, mustard powder, dried thyme, white wine, minced garlic, cornstarch, and heavy cream. Cook on low heat until thickened.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the mushroom sauce. Let them simmer together for about 10 minutes so that flavors meld.

Step 6: Serve

Slice each chicken breast if desired. Serve hot over rice or pasta with extra mushroom sauce drizzled on top! Enjoy your delightful Mushroom Chicken!

How to Serve Mushroom Chicken

Serving Mushroom Chicken can elevate any meal. Its rich and creamy sauce pairs beautifully with various sides, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

With Rice

• Steamed Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice absorbs the flavorful mushroom sauce perfectly.
• Fried Rice: Add some vegetables and eggs for a hearty twist.

Over Pasta

• Fettuccine: The creamy sauce clings to fettuccine, creating a delightful texture.
• Penne: This pasta shape captures the sauce in its tubes, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

With Vegetables

• Sautéed Greens: Spinach or kale sautéed in garlic adds a nutritious touch.
• Roasted Broccoli: Crispy roasted broccoli complements the dish’s creaminess well.

In a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, serve the mushroom chicken in large lettuce leaves with fresh herbs.
• Tortilla Wraps: Roll it all up for a hearty lunch or dinner option.

How to Perfect Mushroom Chicken

Perfecting your Mushroom Chicken recipe ensures every bite is delicious. Here are some tips to enhance your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mushrooms and herbs bring out the best flavors.
• Brown the Chicken Well: Achieving a good sear adds depth to the flavor before adding the sauce.
• Deglaze with Wine: Adding wine helps lift all the savory bits from the pan, enhancing taste.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
• Thicken Sauce Properly: Mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to avoid lumps in your sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Mushroom Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Mushroom Chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the richness of the dish.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds texture and balances flavors well.
3. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds offer crunch and freshness.
4. Cauliflower Gratin: This cheesy side dish brings comfort and pairs nicely with creamy sauces.
5. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts add a savory crunch that contrasts beautifully with Mushroom Chicken.
6. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous flavored with fresh herbs provides a light and flavorful base.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Mushroom Chicken dish from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Neglecting the mushrooms: Make sure to sauté the mushrooms until they’re golden brown. This enhances their flavor and prevents a rubbery texture.
• Overcooking chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches 165°F. Overcooking can lead to dry, tough chicken.
• Skipping the seasoning: Always season your chicken and sauce well with salt and pepper. This step is crucial for bringing out the flavors in your Mushroom Chicken.
• Not letting the sauce thicken: Allow the sauce to simmer long enough for it to thicken properly. A thin sauce won’t coat the chicken well and could affect the overall taste.
• Ignoring the wine choice: Choose a dry white wine that you enjoy drinking. The wine adds depth to the sauce, so avoid cooking wines that may not taste good.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Mushroom Chicken stays fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mushroom Chicken

• Place cooled Mushroom Chicken in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Mushroom Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warm. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes depending on portion size.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mushroom Chicken:

What is Mushroom Chicken made of?

Mushroom Chicken consists of juicy chicken breasts cooked in a creamy mushroom sauce made from fresh mushrooms, beef broth, and spices.

Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Yes! You can use any mushroom variety such as shiitake or portobello for different flavors and textures in your Mushroom Chicken.

How can I customize my Mushroom Chicken?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. Herbs like parsley or basil also work well as garnishes.

What should I serve with Mushroom Chicken?

Mushroom Chicken pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or even pasta. These sides absorb the delicious sauce!

Is Mushroom Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep as it reheats well and keeps its flavor over a few days.

Final Thoughts

This Mushroom Chicken recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. With its creamy sauce and rich flavors, it’s perfect for comforting weeknight dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or sides to make it uniquely yours!