Mediterranean Chicken Breast in Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Mediterranean Chicken Breast in Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Description

Tender, pan-seared chicken breasts are smothered in a rich yet light creamy mushroom sauce infused with garlic, olive oil, herbs, and a touch of lemon. This Mediterranean-inspired dish balances comfort and freshness, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of that silky sauce.

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Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Mushroom Sauce

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 250 g (9 oz) mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion or shallot, finely chopped

• 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning

• ½ cup chicken broth

• ¾ cup cooking cream or heavy cream

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but delicious)

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Season the Chicken
   Pat the chicken breasts dry. Season both sides with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.

2. Sear the Chicken
   Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   Add chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
   Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Cook the Mushrooms
   In the same skillet, add olive oil or butter.
   Sauté mushrooms for 4–5 minutes until browned and tender.

4. Build the Sauce
   Add onion and garlic; cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
   Stir in thyme, then pour in chicken broth. Simmer for 2 minutes.

5. Make It Creamy
   Lower heat and add cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened.
   Finish with lemon juice for brightness.

6. Combine & Simmer
   Return chicken to the skillet. Spoon sauce over the top and simmer for 5 minutes.

7. Garnish & Serve
   Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil. Serve warm.

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Serving Suggestions

• Steamed rice or lemon rice

• Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes

• Pasta or orzo

• Crusty bread or focaccia

• Steamed green beans or sautéed spinach

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Q & A

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work beautifully and stay extra juicy.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, naturally gluten-free—just ensure your broth and cheese are certified gluten-free.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Absolutely. Use coconut cream or cashew cream and skip the Parmesan.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it. Cream sauces may slightly change texture—reheat gently.

Q: What mushrooms work best?
A: Button, cremini, or even portobello mushrooms all work great.