Indulge in the rich flavors of our Mushroom Asiago Chicken, a dish that brings gourmet dining to your kitchen. Tender chicken breasts are sautéed to golden perfection and nestled in a creamy Asiago cheese sauce, complemented by earthy mushrooms and aromatic thyme. This recipe not only promises a delightful culinary experience but also comes together in just 40 minutes, making it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 2 large breasts)
- 2 cups mushrooms, halved
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 1/2 cups dry white wine
- 1/2 cup seasoned flour (see below)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup shredded Asiago cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Seasoned Flour:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
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Pound the chicken breasts between two sheets of waxed paper or plastic wrap to a uniform thickness of about 1/4 inch. Cut each breast into 2 or 3 serving-sized pieces.
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In a shallow dish, combine the seasoned flour ingredients. Dredge the chicken pieces in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
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In a deep, heavy skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté until golden on each side, approximately 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
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Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Sauté the mushrooms and garlic until the mushrooms begin to brown.
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Pour the white wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (deglazing). Lightly bruise the fresh thyme sprigs by twisting them between your fingers or tapping them with the back of a knife. Add the thyme to the mushroom and wine mixture.
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Return the chicken to the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
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Remove the chicken from the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and heat through. Add the Asiago cheese, stirring constantly over low heat until the cheese melts and the sauce reduces by about half. If desired, thicken the sauce with 1 tablespoon of instant flour or a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
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Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce over the pieces to coat. Heat through before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 611 kcal | Servings: 4
The Flavor Profile: Why Mushroom Asiago Chicken Stands Out
One of the key reasons Mushroom Asiago Chicken is so beloved is its incredible depth of flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the overall taste profile:
- Chicken Breasts: Tender, juicy, and mildly flavored, chicken breasts serve as the ideal canvas for the creamy sauce.
- Mushrooms: Earthy and umami-rich, mushrooms add depth and a hearty texture that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
- Asiago Cheese: This semi-hard Italian cheese is known for its nutty and slightly sharp flavor, enhancing the savory notes of the dish.
- Garlic and Thyme: These aromatics provide a subtle, fragrant backdrop that elevates the overall complexity of the sauce.
When combined, these ingredients create a harmonious dish that is both comforting and elegant, making it a versatile recipe suitable for any occasion.
Why You Should Try Mushroom Asiago Chicken
If you’re looking to elevate your home cooking, Mushroom Asiago Chicken is an excellent recipe to try. Here are a few reasons why it stands out:
- Simple Yet Elegant: Despite its gourmet appeal, this dish is surprisingly easy to make. It requires only a few steps, making it accessible to home cooks of all levels.
- Versatile: This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from creamy mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. You can also modify the recipe to suit your taste preferences, adding additional herbs or substituting the chicken with other proteins like turkey or pork.
- Comfort Food with a Twist: While creamy chicken dishes are a classic comfort food, the addition of Asiago cheese adds a unique twist that distinguishes this recipe from more traditional versions.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Mushroom Asiago Chicken
To ensure your Mushroom Asiago Chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these cooking tips in mind:
- Pound the Chicken Evenly: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness. This prevents dry or undercooked spots and ensures a juicy, tender result.
- Deglaze the Pan: After sautéing the chicken and mushrooms, deglaze the pan with white wine to capture all the flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. This step enhances the sauce’s depth and richness.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh mushrooms and high-quality Asiago cheese to achieve the best flavor and texture.
- Thicken the Sauce Carefully: If you prefer a thicker sauce, use a small amount of cornstarch slurry or instant flour. Be cautious not to over-thicken, as the sauce should remain smooth and pourable.
- Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest in the sauce for a few minutes before serving. This step helps the flavors meld together and keeps the chicken moist.
Variations to Try
Mushroom Asiago Chicken is a flexible recipe that you can easily adapt to suit your preferences. Here are some creative variations to explore:
- Herb Variations: Swap thyme for rosemary or sage for a different aromatic profile. Fresh herbs bring a bright, fresh contrast to the rich sauce.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for added color and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to introduce a subtle heat that contrasts with the creamy sauce.
- Different Cheeses: While Asiago is a highlight of this dish, you can experiment with Parmesan, Gruyère, or Fontina for a unique twist on the classic.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken over cauliflower mash or steamed broccoli for a keto-friendly, low-carb meal.
Pairing Suggestions
When serving Mushroom Asiago Chicken, selecting the right side dishes can elevate the entire meal. Consider these pairing ideas:
- Starchy Sides: Creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or a crusty baguette make excellent choices to soak up the rich sauce.
- Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, or a crisp garden salad add a fresh contrast to the indulgent chicken.
- Beverages: Pair this dish with a dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy sauce without overpowering the flavors.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, Mushroom Asiago Chicken can be stored and reheated with ease:
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore the sauce’s smooth texture.
Conclusion:
Mushroom Asiago Chicken is a culinary masterpiece that combines the comforting qualities of creamy chicken with the bold flavors of Asiago cheese and earthy mushrooms. Whether you’re preparing a special meal for loved ones or seeking a satisfying weeknight dinner, this dish delivers in both taste and presentation.
With its rich and savory profile, versatile nature, and elegant simplicity, Mushroom Asiago Chicken is a must-try recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your home. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations and serving suggestions to make it uniquely yours. Enjoy the indulgence and warmth this dish brings to your table!
