Mushroom Asiago Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and impressive, this Mushroom Asiago Chicken is just what you need. This recipe has a special place in my heart because it not only won the grand prize in the Meredith Corporation’s Best of Food Blogger Recipes 2013, but it also brings everyone together around the dinner table. The creamy, cheesy sauce combined with tender chicken and hearty mushrooms makes it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorites!

What I love about Mushroom Asiago Chicken is how it balances simplicity with richness. You can whip it up on a hectic evening or save it for a cozy family meal. Let’s dive into why you’ll fall head over heels for this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy sauce and flavorful chicken.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the ingredients earlier in the day, making dinner even easier when you get home.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of asiago cheese and fresh thyme creates a mouthwatering sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Mushroom Asiago Chicken requires simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Gather these items and get ready to create something special!

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

Additional Ingredients

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

Variations

One of the best things about Mushroom Asiago Chicken is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients based on your preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: If asiago isn’t your favorite, consider using parmesan or gouda instead.
• Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your dish a kick.

How to Make Mushroom Asiago Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by pounding your chicken breast between two sheets of waxed paper until it’s an even thickness of about 1/4-inch. This step ensures that your chicken cooks evenly, resulting in juicy pieces every time. Once pounded, cut them into serving-sized pieces—about two or three from each breast.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a deep skillet over medium heat, melt butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Dredge each piece of chicken in seasoned flour before placing them into the hot skillet. Sauté until golden brown on each side—about five minutes per side—then remove them from the pan. This searing process adds delicious flavor and creates that nice golden crust.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet and sauté your halved mushrooms along with minced garlic until they begin to brown. This step enhances their flavor, giving your dish depth and richness.

Step 4: Deglaze with Grape Juice

Pour in the dry white grape juice while scraping up all those tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this is called deglazing! It adds incredible flavor to your sauce. Next, bruise those fresh thyme sprigs by twisting them between your fingers before tossing them into the mix.

Step 5: Simmer Together

Bring everything back together by adding your sautéed chicken back into the skillet. Bring it all to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully while keeping your chicken moist.

Step 6: Create That Creamy Sauce

Once your chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet again. Now it’s time to add in that rich heavy cream! Heat through before adding asiago cheese—adjusting quantity based on how strong you want that cheesy flavor. Stir constantly over low heat until melted; you’ll notice how everything thickens up nicely.

Step 7: Finish Up

Finally, return your chicken back into that luxurious sauce until heated through again. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for extra flair before serving! It’s perfect over pasta or just enjoyed on its own.

I hope you enjoy making this Mushroom Asiago Chicken as much as I do! It’s truly a dish made with love, perfect for any occasion!

Pro Tips for Making Mushroom Asiago Chicken

Cooking can be a delightful journey, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your Mushroom Asiago Chicken to a dish that impresses family and friends alike!

• Use fresh thyme: Fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor that dried herbs simply can’t replicate. Bruising the thyme releases its essential oils, making the dish aromatic and delicious.
• Deglaze properly: Scraping up those brown bits from the skillet after sautéing the chicken is essential. This step adds depth of flavor to your sauce, making it rich and tasty.
• Choose the right cheese: Asiago can vary in flavor intensity. If you prefer a milder cheese taste, use less; if you love a strong cheesy punch, go for the full amount. Adjusting this can change the entire profile of your dish.
• Don’t rush the sauce reduction: Allowing your sauce to reduce not only concentrates the flavors but also gives it a luscious texture. Patience is key here for achieving that creamy consistency.
• Serve over pasta: While this dish is great on its own, serving it over pasta allows you to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce, creating a satisfying meal that feels complete.

How to Serve Mushroom Asiago Chicken

Presenting your Mushroom Asiago Chicken beautifully will make it even more appealing! Consider these ideas for an impressive presentation that will wow your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh thyme on top not only make for a beautiful aesthetic but also hint at the lovely flavors in the dish.
• Parmesan shavings: Adding some Parmesan shavings on top can introduce another layer of savory flavor and visual interest.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the rich sauce beautifully while providing comfort and satisfaction.
• Steamed Broccoli: The bright green color and crisp texture offer a delightful contrast to the creamy chicken, while also adding nutrients to your meal.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and balances out the richness of the chicken.
• Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted until slightly charred enhance both presentation and flavor, making for a well-rounded plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dining experience centered around your delectable Mushroom Asiago Chicken! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mushroom Asiago Chicken is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, hearty dish throughout the week. Preparing it in advance means you can savor every bite without the fuss on busy nights!

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover Mushroom Asiago Chicken in an airtight container.
• Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To maintain the best flavor, keep the chicken and sauce together.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer the Mushroom Asiago Chicken to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Remember to label it with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

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 gives a unique flavor, you can substitute with other cheeses like parmesan or mozzarella. Just keep in mind that they will alter the taste slightly.

What side dishes pair well with Mushroom Asiago Chicken?

Mushroom Asiago Chicken pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables for a complete meal!

How do I make Mushroom Asiago Chicken gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your broth and seasonings are gluten-free as well.

Can I prepare Mushroom Asiago Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just reheat it gently before serving with sauce.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this award-winning Mushroom Asiago Chicken! It’s not only comforting but also a great way to impress family and friends at dinner. The rich flavors and creamy sauce make it truly special. Happy cooking!