Skillet Asiago Chicken and Mushrooms

If you're looking for a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare, this Skillet Asiago Chicken and Mushrooms recipe is the answer! With tender, juicy chicken breasts, earthy mushrooms, and the rich, nutty flavor of Asiago cheese, this one-pan meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Ready in just 30 minutes, it offers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal fuss. Keep reading to learn how to make this delicious dish, plus tips, variations, and serving suggestions!

this Recipe

What is Skillet Asiago Chicken and Mushrooms?

Skillet Asiago Chicken and Mushrooms is a savory dish that combines pan-seared chicken breasts with a creamy Asiago cheese sauce and sautéed mushrooms. The rich, tangy flavor of Asiago cheese complements the earthiness of the mushrooms, while the chicken is cooked to golden perfection in a single skillet. This meal is quick, simple, and requires minimal cleanup, making it ideal for busy nights when you still want a home-cooked, gourmet meal.

Ingredients List for Skillet Asiago Chicken and Mushrooms

Here's everything you’ll need to make this delicious, creamy chicken skillet:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Pounded to an even thickness for quick cooking.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For seasoning the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds more flavor to the chicken.
• Salt and black pepper: To taste.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken.

For the Mushrooms and Sauce:

• 2 cups sliced mushrooms: Cremini, baby bella, or button mushrooms all work well.
• 3 cloves garlic: Minced.
• 1 small onion: Finely diced.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds depth to the sauce.
• ½ cup heavy cream: For richness and a creamy texture.
• ½ cup grated Asiago cheese: The star ingredient, adding sharp and nutty flavors to the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons butter: For sautéing the mushrooms and adding creaminess.
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme): Adds a fragrant herbal note.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley: For garnish.

Optional Ingredients:

• Spinach: Add a handful of baby spinach for extra color and nutrients.
• Lemon juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon can brighten up the flavors.

Substitutions and Variations

If you want to customize this recipe or accommodate dietary needs, here are some great substitutions and variations:

• Cheese: If you don’t have Asiago cheese, substitute with Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, or Gruyère for a similar flavor profile.
• Mushrooms: While cremini or button mushrooms work well, you can substitute with shiitake, portobello, or even a mix of wild mushrooms for a more gourmet twist.
• Cream: If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the sauce may be a little thinner.
• Herbs: Instead of thyme, try fresh rosemary, sage, or oregano for a different flavor.
• Protein: You can also make this dish with boneless chicken thighs or pork chops instead of chicken breasts.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make this delicious dish? Here’s how to cook Skillet Asiago Chicken and Mushrooms step by step.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Season the chicken breasts on both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms

• In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons butter and allow it to melt. Add the sliced mushrooms, cooking for about 4-5 minutes until browned and softened.
• Add the onion and garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Make sure to stir frequently so the garlic doesn’t burn.

Step 3: Make the Asiago Cheese Sauce

• Pour in the chicken broth and use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet (this adds lots of flavor to the sauce!).
• Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes.
• Stir in the grated Asiago cheese and thyme, whisking continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

• Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the chicken. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

How to Cook Skillet Asiago Chicken and Mushrooms: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick breakdown to ensure you get perfectly cooked chicken and mushrooms every time:

1. Sear the chicken: Getting a nice golden crust on the chicken adds flavor and texture.
2. Sauté the mushrooms: Cooking the mushrooms until they’re browned gives them a rich, earthy flavor.
3. Make the sauce creamy: Use heavy cream and Asiago cheese to create a smooth, velvety sauce.
4. Simmer for flavor: Letting the chicken simmer in the sauce allows it to soak up all the delicious flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the chicken: Make sure not to overcook the chicken breasts. Once they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, remove them from the heat.
• Using too much heat for the sauce: When making the cream sauce, keep the heat at medium to prevent the cheese from curdling. Stir frequently to ensure the sauce stays smooth.
• Not seasoning enough: Don’t forget to season the chicken and sauce well. A pinch of salt and pepper goes a long way in enhancing the dish’s flavors.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This creamy Asiago chicken dish pairs beautifully with various sides, making it a versatile meal. Here’s how to serve it up:

How to Serve Skillet Asiago Chicken and Mushrooms

• With pasta: Serve the chicken and mushrooms over a bed of fettuccine or linguine to soak up the creamy sauce.
• With rice: A side of white or brown rice complements the sauce perfectly.
• Low-carb option: Serve this dish with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lighter, low-carb option.

Presentation Ideas for Skillet Asiago Chicken and Mushrooms

• Garnish generously: Sprinkle the finished dish with fresh parsley and thyme for a burst of color and freshness.
• Serve in the skillet: For a rustic and cozy presentation, serve the dish directly from the skillet. It not only looks great but keeps the food warm at the table.
• Plate with vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted or steamed vegetables like green beans, asparagus, or broccoli to add color and balance to the dish.

Skillet Asiago Chicken and Mushrooms Recipe Tips

• Pound the chicken breasts: If your chicken breasts are thick, use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking and tender meat.
• Grate your own cheese: For the best flavor and texture, use freshly grated Asiago cheese rather than pre-shredded. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
• Use a cast-iron skillet: A cast-iron skillet is ideal for this dish because it holds heat well and creates a beautiful sear on the chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute Asiago with Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, or Gruyère. Each will bring a slightly different flavor, but they all work well in this creamy sauce.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative and tend to be juicier. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Skillet Asiago Chicken and Mushrooms is a simple yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender chicken, flavorful mushrooms, and a creamy Asiago cheese sauce, it’s sure to be a hit with your family or dinner guests. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or a bed of vegetables, this dish is rich, satisfying, and easy to prepare. Try it tonight for a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor!

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