Skillet Chicken with Mushroom Sauce

Introduction

Skillet Chicken and Mushroom Wine Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich and savory sauce made from sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and white wine. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a gourmet touch that is surprisingly easy to prepare. In just 35 minutes, you can serve a meal that is bursting with flavor and sure to impress.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay)
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Directions

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken on both sides until golden brown; set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté mushrooms until tender, then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping up any browned bits.
5. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, and thyme, stirring to combine.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer until the sauce thickens and chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).
7. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Enjoy this hearty dish that brings together the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the brightness of white wine, making every bite a delightful experience.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Season Chicken

Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. Ensure an even distribution for optimal flavor.

Step 2: Heat Skillet

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat until the butter is melted and bubbling.

Step 3: Sear Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 4: Sauté Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté the mushrooms for about 4-5 minutes or until they are tender and have released their moisture.

Step 5: Add Garlic

Add 3 minced garlic cloves to the mushrooms. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 6: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in 1 cup of dry white wine, such as Chardonnay, to deglaze the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan, incorporating them into the sauce.

Step 7: Combine Liquids

Add 1 cup of chicken broth, ½ cup of heavy cream, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients into a smooth sauce.

Step 8: Return Chicken

Carefully return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet. Ensure they are submerged in the sauce.

Step 9: Simmer to Cook

Lower the heat and let the skillet simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve the chicken warm with the sauce drizzled on top.

Notes

Chicken Variations

You can use bone-in chicken breasts; just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Wine Options

If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with additional chicken broth.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or a side of vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage Instructions

Leftover chicken and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Cook Techniques

Seasoning

Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance the flavor.

Searing

Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat to sear the chicken, creating a golden-brown crust that locks in moisture.

Sautéing

Sauté mushrooms until they are tender and flavorful, then add garlic to enhance the aroma.

Deglazing

Deglaze the pan by adding white wine and scraping up the browned bits to incorporate deeper flavors into the sauce.

Simmering

Return the seared chicken to the skillet and simmer in the sauce until it thickens and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Garnishing

Garnish the finished dish with chopped fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.

FAQ

Can I use other types of mushrooms for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any variety of mushrooms such as cremini, shiitake, or button mushrooms.

What can I substitute for dry white wine?

You can substitute with additional chicken broth or use a mixture of chicken broth and a splash of vinegar.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but it is best to prepare the chicken and sauce close to serving time for optimal flavor and texture.

What sides pair well with skillet chicken and mushroom wine sauce?

Serving this dish with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of steamed vegetables complements the flavors well.

Conclusion

This Skillet Chicken and Mushroom Wine Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken and mushrooms with the richness of a creamy wine sauce. In just 35 minutes, you can prepare a meal that not only impresses your family and friends but also delights your taste buds. The combination of garlic, thyme, and white wine elevates the dish, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Chicken Marsala

Swap the white wine with Marsala wine and add capers for a classic Italian dish that offers a slightly sweet and nutty flavor.

Creamy Garlic Tuscan Chicken

Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and spinach to the sauce for a Mediterranean twist that adds vibrant colors and rich flavors.

Mushroom Risotto

Use the mushroom wine sauce as a base for a creamy risotto, adding arborio rice and allowing it to absorb the rich flavors for a comforting meal.

One-Pan Chicken and Rice

Add rice to the skillet along with the broth to create a one-pan dish, letting the rice soak up all the savory sauce while the chicken cooks.

Chicken Piccata

Change the flavor profile by using lemon juice and capers instead of wine for a bright and tangy chicken dish that’s perfect for lemon lovers.