This Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Mushrooms and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a luscious, savory dish that pairs tender chicken with a rich, velvety cream sauce. The hint of nutmeg, along with the earthy mushrooms and sweetness from sun-dried tomatoes, creates an elegant balance of flavors. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for special dinners, family gatherings, or any time you’re craving a comfort meal with a gourmet touch.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup wheat flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 300 g mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Olive oil, for cooking
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 400 ml 30% cream
- A pinch of nutmeg
- 2 sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Steps to Make Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Mushrooms and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Place the flour in one shallow bowl, the grated Parmesan in another, and the beaten eggs in a third.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in the grated Parmesan.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a mixture of butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the coated chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Onions and Mushrooms:
- In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and garlic, stirring frequently until the mushrooms are golden brown and tender, about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Cream Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the 30% cream.
- Season with a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce and mushrooms over them.
- Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
- Enjoy this creamy chicken dish with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 510 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 37 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Sugar: 4 g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I substitute cream with a lighter alternative? Yes, you can use half-and-half or a lower-fat cream to reduce calories, though the sauce will be less rich.
- What other mushrooms can I use? Cremini or portobello mushrooms work well and add extra flavor depth.
- Can I make this dairy-free? Substitute dairy-free butter and coconut cream or cashew cream for a similar creamy effect.
- How can I add more vegetables to this dish? Spinach or kale can be added to the cream sauce toward the end of cooking for extra color and nutrition.
- How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Parmesan Chicken
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides a more robust flavor than pre-grated varieties.
- Cook the Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure the chicken is cooked through but not overdone. If needed, pound it to an even thickness before coating.
- Let the Sauce Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer thickens it and melds the flavors beautifully.
- Don’t Overuse Nutmeg: Just a pinch is enough to enhance the cream sauce without overwhelming it.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch, balancing the richness of the sauce.
Storage Tips
- In the Refrigerator: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much.
- In the Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Mushrooms and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a comforting, indulgent dish perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners. The creamy sauce with Parmesan, mushrooms, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a luxurious blend of flavors, elevating simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal. Paired with pasta, rice, or crusty bread, this dish is sure to be a family favorite. Try this recipe to enjoy a delightful, hearty dinner that’s easy to make yet feels gourmet. Enjoy the creamy, savory goodness in every bite!