Chicken and Mushroom Skillet in a Creamy Asiago and Mustard Sauce
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Skillet in Asiago and Mustard Sauce: A Family Favorite!
Welcome to my cozy corner of the internet, where cooking becomes a heartfelt experience! Today, I’m excited to share with you my delightful Chicken and Mushroom Skillet in a Creamy Asiago and Mustard Sauce. This dish is all about comfort, packed with tender chicken and earthy mushrooms enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that sings of home-cooked goodness.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or weekend cooking, this recipe is quick and easy to whip up, making it a fantastic option for busy days when you still want something special on the table. Picture the aroma wafting through your kitchen, the warm colors peeking through the skillet, and the comforting textures uniting in one delicious bite. Ready to dive in? Let’s create some comforting memories together!
Background & Origin
The blend of chicken and mushrooms is a classic combination found in various cuisines worldwide. Versions of this dish have graced tables since ancient times, likely due to their complementary flavors and hearty appeal. The use of Asiago cheese in this recipe gives it a unique twist; typically associated with Italian gastronomy, it adds a nutty and creamy richness that elevates the familiar to the sublime.
What sets my version apart is the zing from Dijon mustard, bringing brightness to the dish that cuts through the creaminess and enhances overall flavor. This Chicken and Mushroom Skillet is beloved for its versatility and ease of preparation, making it a go-to for busy families and home cooks alike.
Fun Fact:
Did you know that Asiago cheese is aged? This gives it varied flavor profiles—ranging from milky and mild when fresh to sharp and nutty as it matures.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this creamy delight:
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (any variety works, but cremini and button mushrooms are popular!)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Asiago cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced (feel free to add more if you love garlic!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Notes:
- Ensure chicken breasts are at room temperature for even cooking.
- You can finely chop the garlic for a more potent flavor and mash it in for a smoother sauce!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Chicken and Mushroom Skillet.
Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in the skillet and sauté until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, sautéing until the mushrooms are tender and golden, about 4-5 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce: Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, and 1 cup of grated Asiago cheese. Cook until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
Return the Chicken: Take the cooked chicken and place it back in the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated in the rich sauce. Let it heat through for about 2 minutes.
Garnish and Serve: Serve the dish garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Timing & Temperature
- Preparation Time: 10 mins
- Cooking Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
Helpful Tips
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking the mushrooms, as they will steam instead of sautéing if they don’t have enough space.
Pro Tips & Common Mistakes
- Enhance Flavor: Consider marinating the chicken in a bit of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar for 30 minutes before cooking to deepen the flavor.
- Texture Tips: For an extra velvety sauce, you can blend a portion of the sauce and then return it to the skillet.
- What NOT to Do: Avoid overcooking the chicken; it should be juicy and tender!
- Helpful Shortcuts: Use pre-sliced mushrooms or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Prep-Ahead Hacks: Chop your vegetables and measure out the cheese ahead of time to streamline your cooking process!
Variations & Substitutions
Looking to customize your dish? Here are some delicious variations:
- Vegan: Substitute chicken with plant-based chicken and use coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a creamy sauce.
- Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free as is! Just ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Low-Carb: Replace heavy cream with cauliflower puree and serve with spiralized zucchini instead of pasta.
- Kid-Friendly: Use creamy alfredo sauce in place of Dijon mustard to create a milder flavor profile.
- Extra Creamy: Add an additional half cup of cream or cheese—it’s your indulgence!
- Spicy: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Budget-Friendly: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts as they tend to be cheaper and even juicier.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken and Mushroom Skillet pairs wonderfully with:
- Best Sides: Steamed green beans, sautéed asparagus, or a fresh garden salad.
- Bread: Crusty French bread or garlic bread is perfect for sopping up that creamy sauce!
- Rice or Pasta: Serve over fluffy rice or toss with your favorite pasta for a filling meal.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully.
Make it look stunning on your dining table by serving it in a rustic skillet or garnishing it generously with parsley.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
To maximize freshness:
- Fridge: This dish lasts up to 3 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.
- Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze the cooked dish for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating Method: For best results, reheat in a skillet over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating, stirring gently.
- Meal Prep Options: Consider batch cooking the sauce and storing it separately from the chicken, reheating when you’re ready to serve.
Nutrition & Health Info
This dish is indulgent, but you can lighten it up by using reduced-fat cream or cheese. Here’s a rough nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: Approx. 590
- Protein: 50g
- Carbs: 5g
- Fats: 40g
A comforting, hearty meal can fit into a balanced diet, especially when paired with veggies on the side!
FAQ Section
Can I prepare Chicken and Mushroom Skillet in a Creamy Asiago and Mustard Sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance; just store it separately from the chicken until you’re ready to eat.
How do I thicken/thin the sauce?
To thicken, cook longer to reduce it or add a cornstarch slurry. To thin, add a little more cream or stock while heating.
Ingredient substitutions?
Sure! Swap Asiago for Parmesan or cheddar. Use any kind of mushroom you have on hand!
Can I double or halve the recipe?
Yes, simply adjust the ingredients proportionally!
What cookware is best?
Use a sturdy skillet, preferably non-stick or a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution.
Can I make it dairy-free or meat-free?
Yes! Use plant-based cream and substitute with vegan meat alternatives!
What sides go well with it?
Any green veggies, rice, or pasta work great beside this dish!
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making this Chicken and Mushroom Skillet in a Creamy Asiago and Mustard Sauce just as much as I do! It’s a dish that offers warmth, comfort, and a delightful burst of flavor. I’d love to hear your feedback—please leave a comment or rate the recipe. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations on social media, and let’s spread the love of home cooking together! Happy cooking!
