Grandmas Smothered Chicken Breasts Creamy Mushroom Onion Gravy
Table of Contents
Grandma's Smothered Chicken Breasts: Comfort Food at Its Finest
Ever get that craving for something proper comforting? Like, a proper Winner Winner Chicken Dinner kinda craving? Honestly, that’s how I came up with my version of Smothered Chicken Breasts .
It's the kind of Chicken Entrees dish that just makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
This Comfort Food Chicken Recipe isn’t just about filling your belly. It’s about capturing that feeling of home. It has its roots in the American South.
It is simple food elevated with flavour, and brings memories of family gatherings and hearty meals.
This recipe lands at medium on the difficulty scale. Expect to spend about 55 minutes from start to finish, including 20 minutes prepping and 35 minutes of actual cooking.
It makes enough to feed 4 hungry folks.
The Perks of Proper Smothered Chicken
Chicken can be a bit boring. Smothered Chicken keeps it super juicy! Plus, mushrooms are sneaky good for you. They are packed with vitamins and antioxidants! Honestly, it’s perfect for a cosy Sunday supper.
My recipe gives you restaurant quality Chicken in Gravy without needing to change out of your pajamas. What's not to love?
What You'll Need for Easy Chicken Dinner Ideas
Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks. Here’s what you'll need. First, you will need 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
Then there's the stuff for that glorious gravy: mushrooms, onions, garlic, cream, and a few other bits and bobs. Don’t worry, it's all listed out properly below.
I promise it's mostly stuff you probably already have in your cupboard. Now, before we delve into the recipe, let's address something.
I get it, the thought of cleaning up after cooking can be daunting. But fear not, One Skillet is here to rescue us.
Ingredients & Equipment For the Best Chicken Dinners !
Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to make these Smothered Chicken Breasts . Honestly, it's all pretty basic stuff. You can probably find most of it in your cupboard already.
I'm talking about proper comfort food chicken recipe , so no fancy equipment required.
Main Ingredients, No Faff!
Chicken Time ! You need 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz/170g each). Make sure they're plump and juicy looking, not pale and sad.
For this Chicken Entrees , It makes a world of difference if your chicken is fresh. You'll also need 1 tablespoon of olive oil ( 15 ml ).
Next up is the seasoning for your chicken! We're talking 1 teaspoon of paprika ( 5 ml ), 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder ( 2.
5 ml ), and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder ( 2.5 ml ). Don’t forget the salt and pepper to taste.
Gravy Goodness: For the creamy mushroom gravy the real star of the show grab 2 tablespoons of butter ( 30 g ), 1 large onion (thinly sliced, about 150g ), and 8 oz/225g of cremini mushrooms, sliced.
Plus, 2 cloves of garlic, minced.
You’ll also need 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour ( 30g ), 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth ( 355 ml ), 1/2 cup of heavy cream ( 120 ml ), and 1/4 cup of dry sherry ( 60 ml ) if you’re feeling fancy.
A teaspoon of dried thyme ( 5 ml ) and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley ( 15g ) add that perfect finishing touch.
Seasoning Notes: Bam! Flavour Explosion
Garlic, thyme, and sherry that’s the magic combo for this recipe. It's such a winner winner chicken dinner! The sherry adds this amazing depth.
Think rich and slightly nutty. If you're all out of sherry, try a splash of white wine or balsamic vinegar.
Also, don't skimp on the salt and pepper! It really brings all the flavours together. The right spice mix elevate these Pan Seared Chicken Recipe . You know?
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
Honestly, you don’t need much. A large skillet or frying pan is essential. Cast iron is ideal because it distributes heat so well, but any large pan will do.
A cutting board and chef's knife are obviously needed, plus measuring spoons and cups. A meat thermometer is recommended to make sure that chicken is cooked through, aiming for 165° F ( 74° C) .
It's better to be safe than sorry, right?
Remember this One Skillet recipe, and you'll see it doesn't need much more equipment!.
Now that you've assembled everything, let’s get this creamy mushroom chicken cooking! It’s gonna be amazing and you'll add it to your Easy Chicken Dinner Ideas .
Grandma's Smothered Chicken Breasts: Pure Comfort
Honestly, who doesn't love a good chicken dinner ? This recipe for Smothered Chicken Breasts is like a warm hug.
It’s my Grandma's recipe, with a creamy mushroom and onion gravy. Trust me, this is pure comfort food chicken recipe gold.
This recipe is a guaranteed Winner Winner Chicken Dinner for everyone.
Prep Like a Pro: Your Essential Mise en Place
First, let’s get organised. Slice your onion thinly no one wants big chunks. Then, slice those mushrooms. I prefer cremini, but any will do.
Minced garlic is next. Finally, measure out all your spices. Having everything ready makes cooking a breeze!
Smothered Chicken Breasts step-by-step: Easy Chicken Dinner Ideas
- Season the Chicken: Pat those chicken breasts dry. Really dry! Then, season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Don't be shy!
- Sear for Goodness: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium high heat. Sear the chicken for 4- 5 minutes per side. Aim for golden brown. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165° F ( 74° C). Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add your sliced onion. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes . Add the mushrooms. Cook until browned, around 5- 7 minutes . Add the garlic. Cook for just 1 minute. This is the base of your flavor explosion.
- Craft the Gravy: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the mushroom and onion mixture. Cook for 1- 2 minutes , stirring. Gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth. Scrape up those browned bits!
- Simmer and Dream: Bring the gravy to a simmer. Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1/4 cup of sherry (if using), and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Reduce heat. Simmer for 5- 7 minutes . Let it thicken! Season with salt and pepper.
- Smother Time! Return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon that lovely gravy over the chicken. Simmer for another 2- 3 minutes . This heats the chicken through.
- Garnish and Devour: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve. This is the best part!
Pro Tips and Tricks for Smothered Chicken Recipe
First, don't overcrowd the pan when searing. Sear in batches if needed. If the pan is too crowded you won't achieve the golden sear you are looking for.
Secondly, a meat thermometer is your best friend. Aim for 165° F ( 74° C) to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked.
Deglaze the pan properly. Scraping up those browned bits is key for adding flavor to the gravy. This recipe for Smothered Chicken Breasts is a great base for a quick pan seared chicken recipe .
Enjoy this creamy, flavorful chicken entree !
Recipe Notes for Grandma's Smothered Chicken Breasts
Right, so you're ready to make some proper Comfort Food Chicken Recipe . Ace! But before you start, let's chat through a few things to make it even easier and, honestly, even more delicious.
These Chicken Dinners will be a regular in your home!
Serving like a Pro: Plating and Presentation
Listen, nobody eats with their eyes closed, right? I always like to pile my Smothered Chicken high on a plate of creamy mash.
A sprinkle of extra parsley just makes it sing .
My mate, he always drizzles a bit of the gravy over the whole thing. Pure indulgence! A side of bright green broccoli makes it look and taste banging.
Don't forget some crusty bread to mop up every last bit of that gravy. It's just chef's kiss ! A glass of crisp white wine or a cold beer is the perfect pairing.
Smothered Chicken: Storing Like a Boss
Made too much of this Winner Winner Chicken Dinner ? Don't fret! Leftovers are your friend.
- Fridge Rules: Pop any leftover Chicken Entrees into an airtight container, and it'll be fine in the fridge for up to 3 days .
- Freezing Fun: You can freeze this, but the gravy might separate a bit when you defrost it. Still tastes great, though! Just make sure everything is cool before you freeze it in a freezer safe container for up to 2 months.
- Reheating Rhapsody: To reheat, microwave until piping hot, or gently simmer on the hob. A splash of chicken broth helps to loosen up the gravy if it's thickened too much.
Variations: Get Creative With Your Smothered Chicken
Fancy a twist? Here are some ideas:
- dairy-free Delight: Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk. Seriously, it's amazing and works a treat. Gives the gravy a slightly sweet, nutty flavor.
- Seasonal Swaps: In the autumn, use wild mushrooms for a richer, earthier flavour. And adding some leeks or parsnips with the onions will take your Pan Seared Chicken Recipe to another level.
- Spice it up: You could easily make a One Skillet Creamy Mushroom Chicken dish adding a pinch of chilli flakes.
Nutrition Basics: A Little Bit About the Good Stuff
Okay, so I'm not a nutritionist, but here's the lowdown: This Chicken in Gravy has a good whack of protein from the chicken.
The gravy adds some fat for flavour. Mushrooms are packed with vitamins and minerals. Overall, it's a comforting and satisfying meal.
Remember everything in moderation, right?
So go on, give Grandma's Smothered Chicken Breasts a go. You won't regret it. Honestly! This Easy Chicken Dinner Ideas is guaranteed to become a family favourite. You got this!.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Smothered Chicken Breasts ahead of time? Like, prepping it the night before?
Absolutely! You can definitely prep elements of this dish ahead of time. You can season the chicken breasts and slice the onions and mushrooms the night before. Store them separately in the fridge. However, it's best to make the gravy closer to serving time for the best texture, although leftovers still taste great!
My gravy isn't thickening up. What am I doing wrong with these Smothered Chicken Breasts?
Don't fret! Gravy thickness can be a bit temperamental. First, ensure you're properly cooking the flour with the butter and aromatics for 1-2 minutes to create a roux; this is crucial for thickening. Also, make sure you are gradually whisking in the chicken broth.
If it's still too thin after simmering, you can make a slurry of 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then whisk that into the gravy and simmer for a few more minutes.
How long can I store leftover Smothered Chicken Breasts? And what's the best way to reheat them?
Leftover smothered chicken breasts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the gravy has thickened too much.
You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them.
I'm watching my waistline. Is there a healthier version of these Smothered Chicken Breasts?
You bet! You can lighten this dish up by using chicken broth with reduced sodium and light cream or even evaporated milk in place of heavy cream. Using less butter or substituting it with olive oil can also cut down on fat.
Serve with a mountain of steamed greens instead of mashed potatoes for a truly virtuous version that still satisfies those comfort food cravings. It's all about balance, innit?
Can I use different types of mushrooms for the gravy in these Smothered Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! While cremini mushrooms are a great choice for their flavour and availability, feel free to experiment with other varieties. Shiitake, oyster, or even a mix of wild mushrooms would add a lovely depth of flavour to the gravy.
Just remember that some mushrooms release more liquid than others, so you may need to adjust the simmering time accordingly.
What are some good side dishes to serve with Smothered Chicken Breasts?
This dish is incredibly versatile, but some classics work wonderfully. As mentioned, mashed potatoes are a match made in heaven! Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple side salad are also great choices. And of course, don't forget some crusty bread for soaking up every last drop of that delicious gravy.
Get stuck in!
Grandmas Smothered Chicken Breasts Creamy Mushro
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 2g |