Are you craving a healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly quick dinner? Look no further! This recipe featuring chicken, asparagus, and mushrooms is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with fresh ingredients, boasts a delightful combination of textures, and requires minimal cleanup – a win-win for even the busiest home cooks. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sizzle the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies: Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they start to soften. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Step 3: Bring it Together: Stir in the asparagus, chicken broth, white wine (if using), and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp.
Step 4: Combine and Finish: Return the chicken to the skillet. Stir in the lemon juice, season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with rice, quinoa, or roasted potatoes.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the chicken in batches ensures even browning and prevents steaming.
- Adjust cooking time: Depending on the thickness of your chicken and the tenderness of your asparagus, you may need to adjust the cooking times slightly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Seasoning is key! Taste the dish throughout the cooking process and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your preference.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Creamy version: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer sauce.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or onions.
- Different herbs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This simple recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can easily create at home. It's a great option for those searching for best recipes and represents a healthy approach to quick dinner ideas. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying meal!