Mushroom Asiago Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then my Mushroom Asiago Chicken is just what you need! This recipe 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 just delicious; it’s also comforting and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering. The creamy asiago cheese paired with savory mushrooms creates a delightful flavor that will make everyone at your table smile.

What makes this dish even better is how simple it is to prepare. You can whip it up in about 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those nights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Let me share why you’ll love this Mushroom Asiago Chicken!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can have dinner ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy sauce and tender chicken—it’s sure to be a hit!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep everything ahead of time and cook it just before serving.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of mushrooms, garlic, and asiago cheese creates a rich taste that everyone will remember.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside fresh veggies for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Mushroom Asiago Chicken recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (about 2 large)
• 1/2 cup seasoned flour
• 2 tbs butter
• 2 tbs olive oil
• 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
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup shredded asiago cheese

For Dredging

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

Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into some fun variations!

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients to suit your tastes. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey cutlets or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: If you’re not a fan of asiago, try mozzarella or parmesan instead; they both melt beautifully!
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or your favorite herbs to give the dish an extra kick.

How to Make Mushroom Asiago Chicken

Step 1: Pound and Prepare the Chicken

Start by pounding the chicken breast with a meat mallet between two sheets of waxed paper or plastic wrap. This step ensures that the meat cooks evenly. Aim for about 1/4-inch thickness. Once done, cut them into serving-sized pieces—this makes them easier to cook and serve.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a deep skillet or sauté pan, heat the butter with one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Dredge each piece of chicken in seasoned flour before adding them to the hot skillet. Sauté until golden brown on each side—about five minutes per side. Removing them from the pan keeps them juicy while we prepare our sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms

Add the remaining olive oil to your skillet. Sauté the mushrooms along with minced garlic until they start to brown—it’s important as this brings out their natural sweetness and deepens their flavor.

Step 4: Deglaze and Add Thyme

Pour in the dry white grape juice while scraping up those yummy browned bits stuck at the bottom of your pan—this deglazing step adds tons of flavor! To enhance this even more, bruise your fresh thyme by twisting it between your fingers before adding it to the mix.

Step 5: Simmer It All Together

Carefully add your sautéed chicken back into the pan. Bring everything 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!

Step 6: Make It Creamy

Once your chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pan again. Stir in heavy cream and asiago cheese—keep stirring over low heat until melted. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remember that reducing it will give you richer flavors compared to using cornstarch.

Step 7: Final Touches

Return your chicken back into that luscious sauce so it’s heated through once more. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs right before serving for that lovely touch!

Now all that’s left is enjoying this comforting Mushroom Asiago Chicken over pasta or whatever sides you fancy! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Mushroom Asiago Chicken

Making Mushroom Asiago Chicken can be a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can elevate this dish to perfection!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh mushrooms and herbs whenever possible. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to the overall quality of your dish.
• Don’t Skip the Deglazing: When you add the white grape juice to the skillet, make sure to scrape up those brown bits stuck at the bottom. This step adds depth and richness to your sauce, making it irresistible.
• Adjust Cheese Quantity: Feel free to tailor the amount of asiago cheese to your taste preference. If you love a strong cheese flavor, go for the full 1/2 cup; if you prefer a milder taste, stick with 1/4 cup.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, allow your chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help keep it juicy and flavorful as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
• Experiment with Pasta: While this dish is fabulous on its own, consider serving it over different types of pasta such as fettuccine or penne for an exciting texture contrast.

How to Serve Mushroom Asiago Chicken

Presenting Mushroom Asiago Chicken in an inviting way can make all the difference in how it’s received at your table. Here are some ideas for making this dish shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh Thyme Sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh thyme on top create a beautiful presentation and add a burst of herby aroma.
• Parmesan Shavings: Adding shavings of parmesan on top brings extra flavor and gives your dish an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting side that complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans provide a nice crunch and vibrant color, balancing out the richness of the main dish.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crunchy romaine, crispy croutons, and a light dressing adds freshness and acidity that perfectly balances the meal.
• Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting them until tender; they add sophistication and earthy tones that pair wonderfully with asiago chicken.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create not just a meal but an experience that will keep everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mushroom Asiago Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Ensure the chicken is cooled before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Store for up to 2-3 months; label with date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to maintain moisture.
• You can also use a microwave; heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Mushroom Asiago Chicken:

Can I use different types of cheese in Mushroom Asiago Chicken?

Absolutely! While asiago adds a distinct flavor, you can substitute it with other cheeses like parmesan or mozzarella. Just keep in mind that flavor intensity may vary.

How can I make Mushroom Asiago Chicken healthier?

To lighten this dish, consider using less cream or opting for a lower-fat version. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding spinach or zucchini alongside mushrooms.

What sides pair well with Mushroom Asiago Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. A fresh salad on the side would also complement it perfectly!

Can I make Mushroom Asiago Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. Prepare it ahead and store it for easy reheating during busy weeknights.

Is Mushroom Asiago Chicken suitable for special diets?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free flour and suitable for dairy-sensitive diets if you substitute alternatives for cream and cheese.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this award-winning Mushroom Asiago Chicken as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Have fun in the kitchen, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!