Creating a Chicken and Mushroom dish involves combining tender chicken pieces with the earthy flavors of mushrooms in a savory sauce. This classic combination can be served over rice, pasta, or with your choice of side for a satisfying meal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a simple yet delicious Chicken and Mushroom dish.
Ingredients
Chicken: 1.5 pounds (about 680g) of chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Mushrooms: 8 ounces (about 225g) of mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Chicken Broth: 1 cup (about 240ml)
Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup (about 120ml) for a creamy sauce (optional)
White Wine: 1/4 cup (about 60ml) (optional, can substitute with more broth)
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
Butter: 2 tablespoons for a richer flavor
Flour: 1 tablespoon, to thicken the sauce
Salt and Pepper: to taste
Fresh Herbs: Thyme or parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
STEP 1: PREPARE THE INGREDIENTS
Prep Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
Slice Mushrooms: Clean and slice the mushrooms.
Chop Onion and Garlic: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
STEP 2: BROWN THE CHICKEN
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding, and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
STEP 3: SAUTÉ THE VEGETABLES
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and butter.
Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
Add the garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté until the mushrooms are golden and their moisture has evaporated.
STEP 4: DEGLAZE AND FORM THE SAUCE
(Optional) Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir to combine. Cook for a minute.
Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
Bring to a simmer and let the sauce thicken slightly.
STEP 5: ADD CHICKEN AND CREAM
Return the chicken (and any juices) to the skillet.
If using heavy cream, add it now to make the sauce creamy.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your liking, about 5-10 minutes.
STEP 6: FINAL SEASONING AND GARNISH
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Garnish with chopped fresh thyme or parsley.
STEP 7: SERVE
Serve the chicken and mushroom over cooked rice, pasta, or alongside your favorite side dish.
Enjoy hot.
Tips
Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Thickening the Sauce: Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more flour for a thicker sauce or more broth for a thinner one.
Creamy Version: For a non-dairy alternative to heavy cream, consider using coconut milk or a splash of almond milk for a lighter version.
This Chicken and Mushroom recipe is versatile, comforting, and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy sauce of this classic dish!