Tender, juicy chicken combined with earthy mushrooms and aromatic garlic—this Garlic Mushrooms & Chicken recipe is a versatile and delicious meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve it on a warm baguette, over a fresh salad, or with a comforting bowl of rice, this dish is packed with flavor and sure to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe brings together the robust flavors of garlic, mushrooms, and herbs, creating a savory and well-rounded dish. The chicken is tender and perfectly seasoned, while the mushrooms add depth and a subtle earthiness. The garlic infuses every bite with a rich, comforting aroma, making this dish both simple and elegant.
Key Ingredients and What They Add
- Chicken Thighs: The juicy, tender quality of chicken thighs makes them ideal for this dish. Their richness holds up well to the garlic and herbs, giving a more flavorful base than chicken breast.
- Brown Mushrooms: Known for their earthy flavor, brown mushrooms deepen the savory taste and add a hearty texture.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic brings bold, aromatic notes that are essential to this recipe. For maximum flavor, use freshly minced garlic.
- Italian Herbs: A mix of herbs like oregano, basil, and rosemary that enhances the flavor with a Mediterranean touch.
- Butter: Adds richness and a hint of creaminess, balancing out the bold flavors of garlic and herbs.
- Green Bell Pepper and Shallots: These vegetables contribute a mild sweetness and add complexity to the dish’s flavor profile.
Full Ingredient List
- 2 tbsp oil, divided
- 500g chicken thighs, cut into 2 cm pieces
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 tsp Italian herbs
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 250g brown mushrooms, sliced
- 60g butter
- 1 shallot, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make Garlic Mushrooms & Chicken
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces. Season with salt, pepper, Italian herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Allow the chicken to sear for about 5-6 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Tip: For the best sear, don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary, so each piece browns evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms
Using the same skillet, add the remaining oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter melts, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté the mushrooms for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and start to release their moisture.
Tip: Avoid stirring too frequently to allow the mushrooms to caramelize and develop a richer flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the remaining butter to the pan, followed by the chopped shallot and green bell pepper. Cook for about 3 minutes, or until the shallots are soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
Note: Garlic cooks quickly and can burn easily, so keep an eye on it to prevent any bitterness.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return the chicken to the pan, along with any juices that may have collected. Stir everything together, making sure the chicken and vegetables are coated in the flavorful pan juices. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld and ensure the chicken is fully reheated.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot. This dish is versatile, so feel free to get creative with how you serve it!
Tips for the Best Garlic Mushrooms & Chicken
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic delivers a bolder and richer taste than pre-minced or powdered garlic.
- Butter and Oil Combo: Using both butter and oil ensures a flavorful, golden sear without the butter burning.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking chicken, space out the pieces to avoid steaming and ensure a crispy texture.
- Sautéing Mushrooms: Mushrooms need space and heat to caramelize. Avoid crowding and let them brown undisturbed for the first couple of minutes.
Serving Ideas for Garlic Mushrooms & Chicken
This versatile recipe shines in various presentations:
- Over Rice: Serve this dish with a bowl of fluffy rice to soak up the savory sauce.
- On a Baguette: Layer the chicken and mushrooms on a crusty baguette for a hearty sandwich.
- Over a Salad: For a lighter meal, serve this dish over fresh greens with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- With Pasta: Toss with cooked pasta and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for a quick Italian-inspired dinner.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storing Leftovers: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: For the best results, reheat in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water to prevent the chicken from drying out.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or firm tofu, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Spice Level: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the seasonings.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lighter, low-carb meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast can be used, but keep in mind that it may not be as tender as chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
What other mushrooms can I use?
Button mushrooms or portobello mushrooms work well in this recipe if you prefer them over brown mushrooms. Each type brings a unique flavor and texture to the dish.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with additional olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Is it possible to make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish reheats well, so it’s perfect for meal prep. Store in individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
This flavorful and adaptable Garlic Mushrooms & Chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser that works beautifully in various dishes. Enjoy experimenting with serving ideas and find the perfect pairing that suits your taste!
Garlic Mushrooms & Chicken
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 tbsp oil divided
- 500 g chicken thighs cut into 2 cm pieces
- ½ tsp salt or to taste
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- 2 tsp Italian herbs
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
For the Mushrooms & Vegetables
- 250 g brown mushrooms sliced
- 60 g butter divided
- 1 shallot chopped
- 1 green bell pepper chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
- Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir well, searing the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Cooking the Mushrooms & Vegetables
- In the same pan, add the remaining oil and 1 tbsp of butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden and soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the remaining butter to the pan. Sauté the shallots and green bell pepper until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Finishing & Serving
- Return the chicken to the pan along with any resting juices. Stir to combine, coating everything in the pan juices. Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes, until all the vegetables are tender and the chicken is fully reheated.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- This dish is versatile—enjoy it over rice, with crusty bread, or as a salad topping.
- For a richer flavor, try using a mix of fresh and dried herbs.
- To make it dairy-free, substitute butter with extra oil.
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