Are you looking for a delicious and healthy dinner recipe that's both impressive and easy to make? Look no further! This recipe for Portobello mushrooms and chicken is a perfect choice for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal cleanup, and is surprisingly quick to prepare. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- 4 large Portobello mushrooms, stems removed and gills scraped
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms:
Clean the Portobello mushrooms thoroughly. Remove the stems and gently scrape out the gills with a spoon. You can save the stems for another use, like adding them to soup stock.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, sliced red bell pepper, and cremini mushrooms. Cook for another 5 minutes, until slightly tender.
Step 4: Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using). Stir in the balsamic vinegar and fresh thyme leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the prepared Portobello mushrooms, placing them cap-side up in the sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.
Tips for the Best Portobello Mushroom and Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the chicken in batches ensures even browning.
- Don't overcook the mushrooms: Overcooked mushrooms can become rubbery. Aim for tender but still slightly firm.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You can add more balsamic vinegar for extra tanginess or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Variations:
- Add different vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or asparagus.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or marjoram.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy recipe provides a healthy and delicious meal, perfect for busy weeknights or a more relaxed weekend dinner. The combination of savory chicken, earthy mushrooms, and tangy balsamic creates a symphony of flavors that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy creating this homemade masterpiece!