Mushroom Asiago Chicken

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with savory mushrooms, then this Mushroom Asiago Chicken recipe is just what you need! This dish has a special place in my heart because it won the grand prize in the Meredith Corporation’s “Best of Food Blogger Recipes 2013.” It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up for busy weeknights or to impress guests at family gatherings. Trust me, the rich flavors and delightful aroma will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 40 minutes, you can have a gourmet meal on the table without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: This Mushroom Asiago Chicken is a hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Flexible Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on your pantry or personal preferences, allowing for creativity while cooking.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of asiago cheese and sautéed mushrooms creates a depth of flavor that feels indulgent but is so simple to make.
• Great for Meal Prep: This dish reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or leftovers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Mushroom Asiago Chicken, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; you probably have most of these on hand already!

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (about 2 large)
• 1/2 cup seasoned flour
• 2 tbs butter
• 2 tbs olive oil

For the Sauce

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

Seasoning

• 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

Variations

This Mushroom Asiago Chicken recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some delightful variations to try:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not in the mood for chicken, feel free to use turkey breast or even firm tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or asparagus towards the end of cooking for an extra burst of color and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: If asiago isn’t your favorite, substitute it with parmesan or gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your dish a little kick!

How to Make Mushroom Asiago Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by pounding your chicken breast. Place it between two sheets of waxed paper or plastic wrap and use a meat mallet to ensure even thickness—about 1/4-inch. This step is crucial as it helps cook the chicken evenly and keeps it tender.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat up 2 tablespoons of butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Dredge your chicken pieces in seasoned flour before adding them to the hot skillet. Sauté until they’re golden brown on each side—this should take about 5 minutes per side. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Mushrooms and Garlic

Next, add another tablespoon of olive oil to your hot skillet. Toss in those halved mushrooms and minced garlic. Sauté until the mushrooms start browning; this step brings out their natural flavors, making them irresistible!

Step 4: Deglaze with Grape Juice

Pour in the dry white grape juice while scraping up any delicious browned bits stuck at the bottom of your pan—this technique is called deglazing! Then, add your bruised thyme sprigs; they’ll infuse the sauce with wonderful herbal notes.

Step 5: Simmer Everything Together

Return your sautéed chicken back into the skillet. Bring everything to a boil then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows all those lovely flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Create the Creamy Sauce

After simmering, take out the chicken once more. Add heavy cream into the skillet, heating through gently. Stir in shredded asiago cheese—adjust how much you add based on how strong you want that cheesy flavor! Keep stirring until melted.

Step 7: Finish Up!

Once your sauce has thickened nicely (you can thicken it further if desired), return your chicken back into the pan just to warm through again. Serve this delectable mushroom asiago chicken garnished with fresh thyme sprigs over pasta or rice for a comforting meal.

Enjoy every bite of this special dish!

Pro Tips for Making Mushroom Asiago Chicken

Cooking this Mushroom Asiago Chicken can be a delightful experience, and with a few insider tips, you can make it even better!

• Pound the Chicken Evenly: Ensuring your chicken breasts are of uniform thickness helps them cook evenly. This prevents some parts from becoming dry while others are still undercooked.

• Deglaze with Care: When adding the white grape juice, take your time to scrape up those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This step adds depth to your sauce, enhancing its overall flavor.

• Choose Your Cheese Wisely: Adjust the amount of asiago cheese based on your taste preference. If you’re a cheese lover, go for the full half cup; if you prefer a subtler flavor, stick to a quarter cup.

• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allowing the sauce to reduce naturally enhances its flavor and thickness. While you can use thickening agents, nothing beats the richness achieved through reduction.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme not only adds great flavor but also elevates the dish’s presentation. A sprig or two as garnish makes everything look more inviting!

How to Serve Mushroom Asiago Chicken

Presenting Mushroom Asiago Chicken beautifully can enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative ideas for serving this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Thyme Sprigs: A few fresh thyme sprigs on top add color and highlight the herb’s presence in the dish.
• Parmesan Shavings: Lightly shaved Parmesan cheese can provide an extra touch of richness and sophistication.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the creamy mushroom sauce.
• Steamed Asparagus: The freshness and slight crunch of asparagus balance out the richness of the chicken dish, adding a nice contrast.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing complement to the savory chicken.
• Roasted Broccoli: Roasting brings out broccoli’s natural sweetness, making it an excellent side that adds both flavor and nutrition to your meal.

By following these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create a meal that’s as impressive as it is delicious! Enjoy every bite of your Mushroom Asiago Chicken!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mushroom Asiago Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip it up in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store and preserve your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Mushroom Asiago Chicken in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the dish has cooled down before sealing it to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze your Mushroom Asiago Chicken, use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, try to squeeze out as much air as possible from the bags before sealing.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if necessary to restore moisture.
• Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave until hot throughout.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other types of cheese instead of asiago in Mushroom Asiago Chicken?

Absolutely! While asiago offers a unique flavor, you can substitute it with cheeses like parmesan or mozzarella. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will alter the taste and richness of the sauce.

What makes Mushroom Asiago Chicken so special?

Mushroom Asiago Chicken stands out due to its rich, creamy sauce infused with earthy mushrooms and savory asiago cheese. It’s a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough for guests!

Can I make Mushroom Asiago Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep and can be made ahead. Just store it properly in the fridge or freezer, and follow the reheating instructions for an easy dinner later.

What kind of pasta pairs well with Mushroom Asiago Chicken?

Any pasta will do wonderfully! Fettuccine, penne, or even gnocchi are excellent choices that complement the creamy sauce flawlessly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Mushroom Asiago Chicken! With its creamy sauce and flavorful ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience with family and friends. Happy cooking!