Chicken with mushrooms and sour cream

Chicken with mushrooms and sour cream: A delicious, creamy, and comforting recipe

When it comes to dishes that combine simplicity with flavor, chicken with mushrooms and sour cream proves to be a perfect choice. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brings a rich taste and creamy texture that will delight both family and guests. It is a versatile dish, ideal for a family dinner or a festive meal.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Your basic ingredients:
- 1 medium boneless chicken breast (approximately 300g)
- 2 boneless chicken thighs (approximately 400g)
- 300g mushrooms (you can use 2 cans of canned mushrooms or 300g of fresh mushrooms)
- 350ml sour cream (preferably with a higher fat content for a creamier sauce)
- 2 tablespoons flour (to thicken the sauce)
- 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
- Spices: salt, pepper, bay leaves, curry, rosemary, basil, thyme (the choice of spices may vary depending on preferences)

A bit of history:
Chicken with mushrooms and sour cream is a classic dish that has evolved in various culinary cultures. This combination of chicken and mushrooms has been appreciated for centuries due to its rich texture and flavors enriched by sour cream. Whether served with polenta or fresh bread, this dish has a unique ability to bring people together at the table.

Steps for a perfect dish:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Cut the chicken breast and thighs into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking.
- If using fresh mushrooms, clean and slice them. If you choose canned mushrooms, drain them well.

2. Cook the chicken:
- In a large skillet, add the butter or margarine and let it melt over medium heat.
- Add the chicken cubes and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and well cooked. Check if they are cooked through using a kitchen thermometer - the internal temperature should be at least 75°C.

3. Add the mushrooms and spices:
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the sliced mushrooms and mix well. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender.
- Season with salt, pepper, bay leaves, curry, rosemary, basil, and thyme, stirring to distribute the flavors evenly.

4. Preparing the sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with the 2 tablespoons of flour. This will help thicken the sauce and provide a silky texture.
- Add the sour cream mixture to the skillet, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes, until thickened, stirring occasionally.

5. Serving:
- Once the sauce reaches the desired consistency, remove the skillet from the heat. You can serve the chicken with mushrooms and sour cream alongside warm polenta or fresh bread to savor every drop of sauce.
- A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad can perfectly complement the meal.

Practical tips:
- If you want to add a deeper flavor, you can sauté some onions and garlic in butter before adding the chicken.
- Instead of sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter version, but make sure it is at room temperature to avoid curdling.
- Vary the recipe by adding vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, for an extra splash of color and nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or even pork, but the cooking time may vary.

2. How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, will complement the rich flavors of the chicken with mushrooms excellently. Additionally, a warm herbal tea can provide a comforting touch.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe offers an excellent source of protein due to the chicken, while mushrooms are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The sour cream adds healthy fats, but for an even lighter version, you can opt for low-fat sour cream.

Now that you know how to prepare this delicious chicken with mushrooms and sour cream, all that's left is to get cooking. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a comforting dinner, this dish will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones!