Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Mushrooms and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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)

  1. 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.
  2. What other mushrooms can I use? Cremini or portobello mushrooms work well and add extra flavor depth.
  3. Can I make this dairy-free? Substitute dairy-free butter and coconut cream or cashew cream for a similar creamy effect.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

  1. Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides a more robust flavor than pre-grated varieties.
  2. Cook the Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure the chicken is cooked through but not overdone. If needed, pound it to an even thickness before coating.
  3. Let the Sauce Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer thickens it and melds the flavors beautifully.
  4. Don’t Overuse Nutmeg: Just a pinch is enough to enhance the cream sauce without overwhelming it.
  5. 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!