Mushroom Asiago Chicken

Mushroom Asiago Chicken is a delectable dish that combines tender chicken breast with the rich flavors of mushrooms and creamy asiago cheese. This award-winning recipe is perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or enjoying a comforting family meal. With its easy preparation and incredible taste, it will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Award-Winning Flavor: This recipe won the Grand Prize in the Meredith Corporation’s “Best of Food Blogger Recipes 2013,” ensuring you’re serving a dish that has been taste-tested and approved.
• Quick to Prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep time, this Mushroom Asiago Chicken can be on your table in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside vegetables to create a meal that suits any occasion or preference.
• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The combination of heavy cream and asiago cheese creates an indulgent sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh mushrooms and herbs enhances the flavor profile, providing a deliciously earthy taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Mushroom Asiago Chicken, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep skillet or sauté pan
• Meat mallet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep skillet or sauté pan: This allows for even cooking of the chicken while providing enough space for sautéing mushrooms.
• Meat mallet: Ensures uniform thickness for the chicken breasts, promoting even cooking and tenderness.

Ingredients

This mushroom asiago chicken recipe WON THE GRAND PRIZE IN THE MEREDITH CORPORATION’S (FAMILY CIRCLE, BETTER HOMES & GARDENS, ETC.) “BEST OF FOOD BLOGGER RECIPES 2013”

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (about 2 large)
• 2 cups mushrooms (cut in half)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 3 sprigs thyme
• 1 1/2 cups dry white wine
• 1/2 cup seasoned flour
• 2 tbs butter
• 2 tbs olive oil
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup shredded asiago cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp pepper (or to taste)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

How to Make Mushroom Asiago Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pound the chicken breast with a meat mallet between two sheets of waxed paper or plastic wrap until it reaches uniform thickness, about 1/4-inch. Cut into serving-sized pieces (two or three pieces per breast).

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the butter with one tablespoon of olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Dredge the chicken pieces in seasoned flour. Add them to the hot oil and butter mixture in the skillet. Sauté until golden brown on each side, about five minutes per side. Remove from pan once cooked.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same hot skillet. Sauté mushrooms and garlic until they begin to brown.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine

Pour white wine into the skillet, scraping up all browned bits at the bottom (this is called deglazing). Bruise fresh thyme by twisting it between your fingers before adding it to the mushroom-wine mixture.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Return chicken to the skillet. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat. Cover and let simmer for about fifteen to twenty minutes.

Step 6: Create Creamy Sauce

Take out chicken from pan. Stir in heavy cream and heat through. Add shredded asiago cheese based on desired strength of flavor—use up to half a cup for a rich taste or less if preferred.

Step 7: Finish Cooking

Cook while stirring constantly over low heat until cheese melts completely. Continue cooking until sauce reduces by half; alternatively, thicken with instant flour or cornstarch mixed with water if desired.

Step 8: Serve

Add chicken back into the sauce and heat through. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs before serving over pasta or your choice of sides.

Enjoy your delicious Mushroom Asiago Chicken!

How to Serve Mushroom Asiago Chicken

Mushroom Asiago Chicken is a delightful dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance this savory meal.

With Pasta

• Fettuccine: Creamy fettuccine complements the rich sauce beautifully.
• Penne: This pasta shape holds onto the sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Orzo: A small rice-shaped pasta that adds a unique texture to your plate.

With Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients to your meal.
• Roasted Asparagus: The slight char from roasting enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
• Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach provides a fresh, earthy taste that balances the richness.

Garnishes

• Fresh Thyme Sprigs: A simple garnish that adds a pop of color and fresh aroma.
• Parmesan Cheese: Shaved Parmesan can elevate the cheese flavor in your dish.
• Lemon Wedge: A squeeze of lemon brightens up the flavors wonderfully.

How to Perfect Mushroom Asiago Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Mushroom Asiago Chicken, consider these helpful tips for perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh thyme and high-quality chicken will greatly enhance flavor.
• Control Heat Carefully: Sauté over medium heat; too high can burn the garlic or chicken.
• Deglaze Thoroughly: Scrape all browned bits from the pan for added depth in sauce flavor.
• Adjust Cheese Amounts: Experiment with asiago cheese quantities based on your flavor preference.
• Let it Rest: Allow chicken to rest before serving for juicier meat.
• Serve Hot: Enjoy this dish immediately for the best taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Mushroom Asiago Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Mushroom Asiago Chicken can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds a healthy twist with fresh veggies and herbs.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf garnished with herbs offers a savory accompaniment.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelization brings out natural sweetness, enhancing the meal’s flavors.
6. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with veggies makes for a delightful textural addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Mushroom Asiago Chicken can be a delightful experience, but certain missteps can detract from the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfect results.
• Neglecting to season: Failing to properly season the chicken and sauce can lead to blandness. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout the cooking process.
• Skipping deglazing: Not deglazing the pan after browning the chicken results in missed flavor. Make sure to scrape up those browned bits for a richer sauce.
• Using low-quality cheese: Low-quality asiago can lack flavor. Choose a good quality asiago cheese for a more robust and satisfying taste.
• Not simmering long enough: Rushing through the simmering step prevents flavors from developing. Allow enough time for the ingredients to meld together for maximum flavor.
• Ignoring sauce thickness: If your sauce is too thin, it will not coat the chicken well. Consider reducing it or adding a thickening agent if necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mushroom Asiago Chicken

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Mushroom Asiago Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, then add chicken; cover and heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mushroom Asiago Chicken.

How do I make Mushroom Asiago Chicken gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for dredging the chicken. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I use different types of mushrooms?

Absolutely! While cremini or button mushrooms work best, you can try shiitake or portobello mushrooms for different flavors.

What sides pair well with Mushroom Asiago Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. A simple salad also complements it nicely.

How can I customize my Mushroom Asiago Chicken?

Feel free to add veggies like spinach or bell peppers into the sauce for added nutrition and flavor. You could also try using different cheeses based on your preference.

Is Mushroom Asiago Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is excellent for meal prep. Just store servings separately in containers and reheat as needed.

Final Thoughts

Mushroom Asiago Chicken is both comforting and versatile, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Its rich flavors allow for easy customization—try adding your favorite vegetables or adjust the cheese amount based on your taste. Don’t hesitate to give this award-winning recipe a try!