Creamy Chicken Breast with Rich Mushroom Sauce: A Comfort Food Classic

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Introduction

Indulge in a luxurious yet simple dinner that combines tender chicken breasts with a velvety mushroom sauce. This recipe transforms ordinary chicken into an elegant dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With its rich, creamy texture and deep umami flavors, this chicken in mushroom sauce is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Sauce

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 150-170g each)
  • 300g fresh mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (whipping cream)

Optional Seasoning

  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken
    • Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels
    • Season both sides with salt and pepper
    • Pound to even thickness if needed for consistent cooking
  2. Sear the Chicken
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
    • Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown
    • Remove chicken and set aside, keeping warm
  3. Sauté Aromatics
    • In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions until translucent
    • Add minced garlic, cook for 30 seconds
    • Add sliced mushrooms, cook until they release moisture and brown
  4. Create the Sauce
    • Sprinkle flour over mushrooms and stir
    • Slowly pour in chicken broth, stirring constantly
    • Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly
    • Add heavy cream, stirring to combine
    • Let sauce thicken for 2-4 minutes
  5. Combine and Finish
    • Return chicken to the skillet
    • Spoon sauce over chicken
    • Simmer for 3-4 minutes to heat through
    • Garnish with fresh herbs

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 350-400 kcal
  • Protein: 30-35g
  • Fat: 22-25g
  • Carbohydrates: 8-10g
  • Cholesterol: 120-140mg

Cooking Time

  • Preparation: 15 minutes
  • Cooking: 20-25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Expert Cooking Tips

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C)
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing chicken
  • Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to retain moisture
  • Use fresh mushrooms for best flavor
  • Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control salt content

Variations and Substitutions

  • Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for lighter version
  • Use different mushroom varieties like shiitake or cremini
  • Add white wine for extra depth of flavor
  • Substitute chicken with turkey breast
  • Make it vegetarian with portobello mushrooms and vegetable broth

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking for best results.

2. How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the sauce.

3. What side dishes pair well? Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice complement this dish.

4. Can I prepare this in advance? Prepare sauce separately and reheat when ready to serve.

5. How long can I store leftovers? Refrigerate in airtight container for 3-4 days.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking
  • Store sauce and chicken separately to maintain texture
  • Reheat gently to prevent sauce from breaking
  • Not recommended for freezing due to cream-based sauce

Bon Appétit!