Background and History
Chef John’s Chicken and Mushrooms is a classic comfort dish known for its rich, savory flavors and simplicity. Chef John, a renowned culinary expert, created this dish to highlight the natural umami of mushrooms paired with tender, juicy chicken. The recipe is inspired by traditional European cuisine, where mushrooms and cream sauces are commonly used to enhance the flavors of meat dishes. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, offering a gourmet experience with minimal effort.
Serves
4 people
Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time
30 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound mushrooms (cremini or white button), sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Cook the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the mushrooms and onions. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Make the Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- If a thicker sauce is desired, mix the flour with a little water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce.
Combine and Serve
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce and mushrooms over the top. Simmer for a few more minutes until the chicken is heated through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative.
- This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Adding a splash of white wine to the sauce can enhance the flavor.
Allergy Warning
- Contains dairy (heavy cream).
- Contains mustard (Dijon mustard).
- Check all processed ingredients for any additional allergens.
Enjoy Chef John’s Chicken and Mushrooms, a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings the warmth of home-cooked comfort to your table!
FAQs
What cuisine is fricassee?
Fricassee is a classic dish from French cuisine that typically involves braising meat, such as chicken or veal, in a white sauce made with stock, wine, and cream.
How to cook chicken for beginners?
For beginners, a simple method is to season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and olive oil, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
What is the best way to eat chicken of the woods mushrooms?
Chicken of the woods mushrooms are best sautéed with butter and garlic, then used in dishes like pasta, risotto, or simply served as a side dish to highlight their unique flavor and meaty texture.
How to season cooked chicken?
To season cooked chicken, sprinkle it with a blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of paprika, then lightly reheat in a skillet with a bit of olive oil to enhance the flavors.
What spices pair well with chicken?
Spices that pair well with chicken include garlic, paprika, thyme, rosemary, cumin, coriander, and black pepper. Lemon zest and fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro also complement chicken beautifully.
How to make cooked chicken tastier?
Make cooked chicken tastier by adding a flavorful sauce or glaze, such as a garlic butter sauce, honey mustard glaze, or a tangy BBQ sauce. Fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice can also enhance the flavor.
How can I make my chicken more tasty?
Marinate your chicken before cooking in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, or use a spice rub with your favorite seasonings. Cooking it properly to avoid dryness also enhances its taste.
Is it better to season chicken before or during cooking?
It is generally better to season chicken before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat, enhancing the overall taste.
How do you make cooked chicken taste better?
To make cooked chicken taste better, add a sauce or seasoning after cooking, such as a garlic herb butter, BBQ sauce, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Reheating it in a flavorful broth can also help.
How to marinate already cooked chicken?
To marinate already cooked chicken, toss it in a marinade made of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then let it sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors. You can also heat it gently to enhance the infusion.
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