Thyme Parmesan Mushroom Gravy Chicken
Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes
This Thyme Parmesan Mushroom Gravy Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and creamy mushroom gravy, infused with fresh thyme and Parmesan cheese.
This Thyme Parmesan Mushroom Gravy Chicken recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner. The combination of earthy mushrooms and aromatic thyme creates a comforting sauce that elevates the simple chicken into a gourmet meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy mushroom sauce that perfectly complements the chicken
- Rich flavor from fresh thyme and grated Parmesan
- Quick and easy to prepare for a weeknight dinner
The Perfect Weeknight Dinner
When it comes to weeknight dinners, you want something that is not only quick to prepare but also delicious and satisfying. Thyme Parmesan Mushroom Gravy Chicken fits the bill perfectly. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a gourmet meal on the table in under 30 minutes. This dish is perfect for busy families or anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal without the fuss.
The creamy mushroom gravy is the star of the show, providing a rich, savory flavor that elevates the tender chicken. The combination of thyme and Parmesan adds a gourmet touch that makes this dish feel special, even on a busy weekday evening. Whether you serve it with rice, pasta, or a side of steamed vegetables, this recipe is sure to impress.
Tips for Perfect Chicken
To ensure your chicken breasts are as tender and juicy as possible, consider pounding them to an even thickness before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and prevents any dry spots. Additionally, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
Don’t shy away from seasoning your chicken! A simple sprinkle of salt and pepper can make all the difference. For an extra layer of flavor, you can marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a couple of hours before cooking. This extra step infuses the meat with delicious flavors and keeps it moist.
Variations and Substitutions
While this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. If you're looking to lighten things up, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. This will still give you a creamy texture but with fewer calories.
For a more robust flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the mushroom gravy. This will enhance the depth of flavor and add a nice acidity that complements the richness of the cream and cheese. You can also experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, to find your favorite combination.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Mushroom Gravy
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until cooked through.
Prepare the Mushroom Gravy
In the same skillet, add the onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are browned.
Make the Sauce
Gradually pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and let it thicken. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and thyme.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, spooning the gravy over the top. Let it simmer for a few minutes to heat through. Serve warm, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Pro Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, thyme, and garlic before cooking.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing them is easy! Place the chicken and gravy in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat. Stir frequently to ensure it heats evenly without separating.
For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and gravy. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stove.
Serving Suggestions
Thyme Parmesan Mushroom Gravy Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up all that delicious gravy. A side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad can also complement the richness of the dish, adding freshness and balance.
For a comforting touch, serve it with warm, crusty bread. This is perfect for mopping up the savory gravy, ensuring that none of that delicious sauce goes to waste. Whatever you choose, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Yes, you can use any mushrooms you like, such as cremini or shiitake for different flavors.
→ Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
You can use skinless chicken thighs, low-fat cream, or even substitute coconut milk for a lighter version.
→ Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mushroom gravy ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.
→ What can I serve with this gravy chicken?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.
Thyme Parmesan Mushroom Gravy Chicken
This Thyme Parmesan Mushroom Gravy Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and creamy mushroom gravy, infused with fresh thyme and Parmesan cheese.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Easy Comfort Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Mushroom Gravy
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are browned. Sprinkle with flour and stir well to coat.
Gradually pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and let it thicken. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, spooning the gravy over the top. Let it simmer for a few minutes to heat through. Serve warm, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Extra Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, thyme, and garlic before cooking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 33g