Chicken breast with mushrooms and sour cream

Chicken breast with mushrooms and cream - A delicious and comforting recipe

When it comes to quick, tasty, and filling dishes, the recipe for chicken breast with mushrooms and cream is definitely a favorite. This main course stands out with its combination of rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Additionally, it is an easy recipe to adapt, allowing for personalization based on individual preferences. Let’s begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts (approximately 500 g)
- 1 can of cooked and sliced mushrooms (or fresh mushrooms, if preferred)
- 2 dried onions
- 150 ml white wine (choose a dry wine for a more balanced taste)
- 3 tablespoons of butter (for a richer flavor, use salted butter)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2-3 cloves of garlic (either fresh or powdered, as preferred)
- 350 ml cream (cooking cream, but a lighter option can be sour cream)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon of cornstarch + 40 ml cold milk (for a thicker sauce)

Ingredient details:
Chicken breast is an excellent choice for light recipes, being a good source of lean protein. Mushrooms, rich in vitamins and minerals, add both umami flavor and a pleasant texture. The white wine provides a note of acidity that balances the fat of the cream, while the onion and garlic enhance the dish's aroma.

Preparation techniques:
1. Start by washing the chicken breasts well. Cut them into uniform cubes for even cooking.
2. Heat a double-bottomed pan (preferably one made of cast iron, which retains heat) over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt completely.
3. Add the chicken cubes to the pan and brown them on all sides. This will take about 5-7 minutes. The chicken will release some water, but don’t worry, it will evaporate later.
4. Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the pan and keep it covered to retain heat.

Helpful tip: If you want an even more intense flavor, let the chicken marinate in a little olive oil, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes before cooking.

5. In the same pan, add the remaining butter and the sliced onion. Let the onion sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes soft and translucent.
6. Add the well-drained mushrooms and continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes. If using fresh mushrooms, make sure to wash and slice them thinly.
7. Pour the white wine into the pan and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the alcohol has completely evaporated (about 5 minutes).
8. Now it’s time to add the chicken back into the pan. Add the cream, garlic (to taste), salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Possible variations: If you want to enhance the flavor, you can add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even a little soy sauce for an Asian touch. You can also replace the mushrooms with seasonal vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers.

9. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with 40 ml of cold milk and add the mixture to the pan. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens to the desired consistency.
10. Once you achieve the ideal sauce, turn off the heat and add freshly chopped parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness and color.

Serving suggestion: This chicken breast with mushrooms and cream recipe pairs perfectly with a side of mashed potatoes or boiled pasta, which will absorb the delicious sauce. Additionally, a fresh green salad will add a pleasant contrast.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen chicken breast?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking to avoid uneven cooking.

2. What wine should I choose for the recipe?
A dry white wine is ideal; avoid sweet wines, which will alter the final taste of the dish.

3. Can I substitute the cream?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter version, but make sure to add it at the end to prevent curdling.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This recipe offers approximately 400 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. Chicken breast is an excellent source of protein, while mushrooms provide fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet. The cream, although higher in calories, adds creaminess and is a source of calcium.

With this chicken breast with mushrooms and cream recipe, you will surely impress family and friends. Experiment, adapt, and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!