09 Apr 2025
Cook time 13 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
2 tsp olive oil
3 tbsp vinegar
2 tsp mustard
1 tsp garlic
8 chicken breasts
2 mushrooms
2.50 fl oz white wine
1/4 tsp dried thyme
Balsamic chicken and mushrooms is a flavorful and hearty dish that brings together the tangy sweetness of balsamic vinegar with the earthy taste of mushrooms. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a satisfying blend of protein and taste.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Begin by mincing the garlic if you haven’t already done so.
- Slice the mushrooms thinly and set them aside.
2. Mix the Marinade:
- In a small bowl, mix together the balsamic vinegar, mustard, minced garlic, and dried thyme.
- Set aside a small portion of this mixture to use as a sauce later.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the majority of the marinade mixture over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.
4. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade (discard any leftover marinade) and place them in the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are well browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
5. Cook the Mushrooms:
- In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms.
- Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the mushrooms are soft and browned. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Prepare the Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to medium and pour the reserved marinade and white wine into the skillet with the mushrooms.
- Stir well to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
7. Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, coating them with the mushroom sauce.
- Allow the chicken to heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the balsamic chicken and mushrooms to serving plates.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips:
- For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in the vinegar, mustard, and garlic mixture for at least an hour before cooking.
- Use a high-quality balsamic vinegar to enhance the dish's overall taste.
- Do not overcrowd the pan while cooking the chicken to ensure even browning.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow the liquid to reduce further while simmering.
- Feel free to add additional herbs or spices to suit your taste, such as rosemary or black pepper.
Balsamic chicken and mushrooms is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a side of vegetables or grains. With its rich, savory flavors and simple ingredients, it’s a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Follow these tips to achieve the best results and enjoy a delicious meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.