Creamy Chicken with Mushrooms and Dijon Sauce

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Ingredients for Creamy Chicken with Mushrooms and Dijon Sauce

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious dish:

  • For the Chicken:
    • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon butter
  • For the Sauce:
    • 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 cup chicken broth
    • 1 cup heavy cream
    • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
    • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
    • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions for Creamy Chicken with Mushrooms and Dijon Sauce

1. Prepare the Chicken:

  • Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Cook the Chicken:

  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Mushrooms:

  • In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they are browned and tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently.

4. Make the Sauce:

  • Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze it. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and thyme. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

5. Combine:

  • Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and coat them in the creamy sauce. Allow them to simmer in the sauce for about 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.

6. Serve:

  • Garnish the dish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Pair it with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large skillet
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Tips for Making the Best Creamy Chicken with Mushrooms and Dijon Sauce

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mushrooms and herbs enhance the flavor of this dish significantly. Opt for fresh whenever possible.
  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink in the center to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Customize the Sauce: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices. A splash of white wine can also enhance the sauce’s depth.
  • Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use low-fat yogurt.

Storage and Leftovers

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftover creamy chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
  • Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Pairing Suggestions

Creamy Chicken with Mushrooms and Dijon Sauce pairs wonderfully with:

  • Rice or Pasta: Serve it over fluffy white rice, brown rice, or your favorite pasta for a complete meal.
  • Vegetables: Sautéed or steamed vegetables, such as asparagus, green beans, or broccoli, make a great side.
  • Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing salad can balance the richness of the dish.

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