Mushroom Asiago Chicken

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that’s sure to impress, you’ve stumbled upon a gem! This Mushroom Asiago Chicken recipe not only won the grand prize in the Meredith Corporation’s “Best of Food Blogger Recipes 2013,” but it has also become a cherished favorite in my kitchen. Imagine tender chicken bathed in a creamy sauce with earthy mushrooms and savory asiago cheese—absolutely delightful!

Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is as easy to prepare as it is satisfying. Whether you serve it over pasta or alongside a fresh salad, it brings warmth and joy to the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The creamy sauce and rich flavors make this meal a hit with both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare the chicken ahead of time, making dinner stress-free.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of mushrooms and asiago cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items that you likely have on hand. Let’s dive into what you’ll need for this Mushroom Asiago Chicken:

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (about 2 large)
• 1/2 cup seasoned flour
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp pepper (or to taste)

For the Sauce

• 2 cups mushrooms (cut in half)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 3 sprigs thyme
• 1 1/2 cups dry white grape juice
• 2 tbs butter
• 2 tbs olive oil
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup shredded asiago cheese

Other Ingredients

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this Mushroom Asiago Chicken recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using turkey breasts or even grilled tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the cheese: While asiago adds a unique flavor, feel free to substitute with parmesan or mozzarella if you prefer something milder.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra veggie boost.
• Make it spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish with some heat!

How to Make Mushroom Asiago Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pound your chicken breast between two sheets of waxed paper or plastic wrap until it’s about 1/4-inch thick. This step ensures even cooking and tenderizes the meat, making each bite juicy and flavorful. Cut it into serving-sized pieces for easy handling.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a deep skillet or sauté pan, heat butter with one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Dredge each piece of chicken in seasoned flour before adding it to the hot pan. Sauté until golden brown on each side; this should take about five minutes per side. Removing it from the pan at this stage helps keep it juicy while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the hot skillet and toss in your mushrooms and minced garlic. Sauté until the mushrooms start to brown—a process that enhances their flavor and adds depth to your sauce.

Step 4: Deglaze with Grape Juice

Pour in the dry white grape juice and scrape up all those tasty browned bits stuck at the bottom of your pan (this technique is called deglazing). It infuses your sauce with even more flavor! Add bruised thyme sprigs by twisting them between your fingers; this releases their aromatic oils into your dish.

Step 5: Simmer Together

Return your sautéed chicken back into the pan, bringing everything to a gentle boil. Then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together while ensuring your chicken cooks through perfectly.

Step 6: Create Your Sauce

Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the pan again. Stir in heavy cream and shredded asiago cheese; adjust according to how cheesy you like it! Cooking over low heat while stirring constantly helps melt that cheesy goodness into a silky sauce. If you’re short on time, you can thicken it quickly using instant flour or cornstarch mixed with water instead of reducing.

Step 7: Combine & Serve

Finally, return your chicken back into that delicious sauce for a quick reheat before serving. Garnish each plate with fresh thyme sprigs for an elegant touch. This Mushroom Asiago Chicken pairs wonderfully over any pasta—just perfect for soaking up all that rich sauce!

Now gather around your table and enjoy this heartwarming dish with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Mushroom Asiago Chicken

Cooking can be a delightful journey, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your Mushroom Asiago Chicken turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mushrooms, herbs, and high-quality cheese will enhance the flavors of your dish significantly, making it taste more vibrant and delicious.
• Don’t rush the browning: Allowing the chicken to brown properly creates a depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish. A nice golden crust adds both texture and taste!
• Deglazing is key: Scraping up those browned bits from the skillet not only cleans the pan but also infuses your sauce with rich flavors, making every bite more enjoyable.
• Adjust cheese to your taste: Asiago cheese can vary in strength; feel free to start with less if you prefer a milder flavor. You can always add more as it melts into the sauce.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your chicken to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps retain its juices, resulting in a juicier and more tender bite when served.

How to Serve Mushroom Asiago Chicken

This Mushroom Asiago Chicken is not just delicious; it’s visually appealing too! Here are some ideas on how to present this dish beautifully for your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh thyme not only add color but also accentuate the herbaceous notes in your dish.
• Grated asiago cheese: A light sprinkle of extra asiago on top before serving can enhance presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic make a comforting side that complements the rich sauce beautifully.
• Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans add color and a crunchy texture, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette offers a healthy balance to this hearty meal.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, seasoned cauliflower rice is an excellent alternative that soaks up the savory mushroom-asiago sauce while keeping things light.

Enjoy crafting your meal! This Mushroom Asiago Chicken is sure to impress whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mushroom Asiago Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! It not only saves time during busy weekdays but also allows the flavors to develop, making it even more delicious when reheated. Here’s how you can store, freeze, and reheat your tasty creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the Mushroom Asiago Chicken cool completely.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. For best results, label the container with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to restore moisture.
• Alternatively, use a microwave on medium power, checking every minute until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Mushroom Asiago Chicken without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy milk thickened with cornstarch for a lighter version.

What can I serve with Mushroom Asiago Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

How do I store leftovers of Mushroom Asiago Chicken?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool before sealing!

Can I use other types of cheese instead of asiago?

Yes! While asiago adds a wonderful flavor, you can also experiment with parmesan or mozzarella for different taste profiles.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Mushroom Asiago Chicken as much as I do! It’s not just a delicious meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings comfort and joy to your dinner table. Whether you’re preparing it for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!