Imagine a dish that combines the perfect crunch of golden-brown chicken with a luxuriously creamy mushroom sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This Golden and Crispy Chicken with Mushroom and Parmesan Sauce is more than just a meal – it’s a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup (120 g / 4.2 oz) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup (100 g / 3.5 oz) breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup (50 g / 1.8 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tbsp (45 ml) olive oil
- 2 tbsp (30 g) butter
- 1 cup (150 g / 5.3 oz) sliced button mushrooms
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (250 ml / 8.5 fl oz) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120 ml / 4 fl oz) chicken broth
- 1/2 cup (50 g / 1.8 oz) grated Parmesan cheese (for the sauce)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Crispy Chicken Coating
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Set up three separate plates: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Carefully dredge each chicken breast first in flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally coat with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture.
2. Cooking the Chicken to Golden Perfection
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the breaded chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove chicken and keep warm.
3. Creating the Creamy Mushroom Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter.
- Add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, sautéing for 4-5 minutes until tender.
- Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, simmering for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Final Assembly
- Return the crispy chicken to the pan.
- Coat the chicken thoroughly with the creamy mushroom sauce.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot alongside pasta, rice, or homemade mashed potatoes.
Nutrition and Serving Details
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Approximate Nutrition per Serving:
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 38g
Why This Recipe is a Healthy Choice
Despite being a indulgent-tasting dish, this recipe offers several nutritional benefits. The lean chicken breast provides high-quality protein essential for muscle maintenance and growth. Mushrooms are packed with antioxidants and essential nutrients, while the use of olive oil offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. By using a moderate amount of Parmesan and controlling portion sizes, you can enjoy a satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition.
Pro Tip: For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream and opt for baking the chicken instead of frying for reduced calories.