Introduction
Seared Chicken Breast with Mushroom Cream Sauce is a dish that brings comfort and elegance to your dining table. This recipe combines perfectly cooked chicken with a creamy mushroom sauce, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
Reasons to Love This Seared Chicken Breast Recipe
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: Achieve a rich and creamy dish without complex techniques.
- Versatile Pairings: Perfect with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a time-efficient crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the Mushroom Cream Sauce:
- 8 ounces mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
- Substitute chicken thighs for the chicken breasts for a juicier texture.
- Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Add a splash of white wine for extra depth in the sauce.
- Replace thyme with rosemary or sage for a different flavor profile.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Meat thermometer
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions for Seared Chicken Breast
- Season the Chicken: Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, ensuring they are golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature: 165°F or 75°C). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add mushrooms and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and golden.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in heavy cream and thyme, and simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, allowing it to heat through for 2–3 minutes.
- Finish: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce and stir gently until melted. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
What to Serve with Seared Chicken Breast
Serve this dish with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or al dente pasta. For a healthier option, pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
How to Store Seared Chicken Breast with Mushroom Cream Sauce
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to preserve the creamy texture.
Can You Freeze Seared Chicken Breast with Mushroom Cream Sauce?
Yes! Freeze in portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use different types of mushrooms? Yes, try shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a deeper flavor.
- How do I prevent the sauce from curdling? Use heavy cream and avoid boiling the sauce. Simmer gently instead.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely. Prepare the chicken and sauce separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve
Resources for Reference:
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Conclusion
This seared chicken breast is a delightful blend of simple ingredients and rich flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or cooking for your family, this dish will surely impress.
See also
Spinach and Mushroom Alfredo Ravioli
PrintSeared Chicken Breast with Mushroom Cream Sauce
Seared Chicken Breast with Mushroom Cream Sauce is a dish that brings comfort and elegance to your dining table. This recipe combines perfectly cooked chicken with a creamy mushroom sauce, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10min
- Cook Time: 25min
- Total Time: 35min
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing and Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the Mushroom Cream Sauce:
- 8 ounces mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6–7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature: 165°F or 75°C). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and golden.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in heavy cream and dried thyme. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine and Finish: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the sauce over them, and cook for 2–3 minutes to heat through. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the sauce and stir gently to incorporate.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot with your choice of side dishes.
Notes
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a good sear.
- For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
- Fresh thyme can be substituted for dried thyme for a more vibrant flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on low to maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg