Sautéed Chicken and Mushrooms
Tender pieces of chicken and earthy mushrooms are pan-seared to perfection with aromatic garlic and thyme. This savory one-pan dish is a weeknight dinner hero, ready in under 30 minutes and bursting with flavor.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare and season the chicken
- b.Pat the diced chicken breast dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
- c.Season the chicken cubes generously with salt and black pepper.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté the chicken
- b.Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- c.Add the chicken in a single layer, making sure not to crowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary.
- d.Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown on all sides and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- e.Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the mushrooms and aromatics
- b.Melt the butter in the same skillet over medium heat.
- c.Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-6 minutes until they have released their moisture and started to brown.
- d.Add the minced garlic and fresh thyme leaves. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine and finish the dish
- b.Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom.
- c.Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- d.Stir everything together and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld.
- e.Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best browning, ensure your pan is hot before adding the chicken and don't move the pieces around too much for the first couple of minutes.
- 2Don't crowd the pan. Cooking in batches ensures the chicken and mushrooms sear rather than steam, developing a much deeper flavor.
- 3Let the mushrooms cook undisturbed for a few minutes to get a nice golden-brown color before you start stirring them.
- 4Fresh thyme makes a big difference, but you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme if needed.
- 5This dish is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
Omit the butter and use an extra tablespoon of olive oil. Serve with quinoa or brown rice for a balanced meal.
quickQuick
Use pre-sliced mushrooms and pre-diced chicken to cut down on prep time for a super-fast meal.
dairy freeDairy free
Replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative or simply use olive oil for the entire cooking process.
high proteinHigh protein
For an extra protein boost, add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans along with the chicken in the final step.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Chicken breast is a fantastic source of high-quality lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Rich in B Vitamins
Mushrooms and chicken are good sources of B vitamins like niacin and pantothenic acid, which help convert food into energy and support the nervous system.
Supports Immune Function
Garlic and mushrooms contain compounds that have been shown to support a healthy immune system.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a healthy dish. It's high in lean protein from the chicken and provides vitamins and minerals from the mushrooms and garlic. It's also relatively low in carbohydrates.