Are you craving a comforting yet healthy meal that's quick to prepare? Look no further! This chicken and mushroom recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and nutritious dinner without sacrificing flavor. It’s a simple, easy recipe, ideal for homemade cooking, and a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas. This recipe delivers a flavorful, healthy meal, proving that delicious dishes don't have to be complicated.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with extra broth)
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for even browning.
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Add Mushrooms and Seasonings: Stir in the sliced mushrooms, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the mushrooms start to soften.
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Deglaze the Pan: If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off. If omitting wine, proceed directly to the next step.
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Create the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and mushroom mixture. Stir well to combine. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
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Simmer and Serve: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your liking. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best Chicken and Mushroom Dish:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This will ensure that the chicken browns properly and doesn't steam. Work in batches if necessary.
- Use quality ingredients: The flavor of this dish greatly depends on the quality of the ingredients. Opt for fresh mushrooms and herbs whenever possible.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and thyme to your preference.
Variations:
- Creamy Chicken and Mushrooms: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or crème fraîche during the last few minutes of simmering for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers along with the onions.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This easy chicken and mushroom recipe is a fantastic example of how healthy meals can be both delicious and satisfying. It’s a perfect quick dinner idea, ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful dish, a true testament to the best recipes' ability to bring joy to your kitchen and your table.