This Easy Creamy Asiago Chicken is a tasty dish that features tender chicken cooked in a rich and creamy sauce with zesty Asiago cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners!
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy goodness? I love serving it with pasta or rice to soak up every drop of that creamy sauce. It’s a winner every time! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I suggest using skinless, boneless chicken breasts for a quick-cooking option. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, chicken thighs are a great alternative—they stay juicy and tender!
Mushrooms: It’s nice to use either white or cremini mushrooms. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, try adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist.
Heavy cream: This adds creaminess to the dish. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be less rich. Coconut cream is also a good dairy-free option!
Asiago cheese: If you can’t find Asiago, try using Parmesan or Pecorino Romano. They offer a similar sharpness that works well in this dish.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken to perfection is key for this recipe. Here’s how to get it just right!
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken—this seals in juices.
- Cook the chicken about 5-7 minutes on each side. Don’t rush it; a nice golden color is what you want!
- Use a meat thermometer if you have one. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
Easy Creamy Asiago Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (or thighs), trimmed
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) sliced mushrooms (white or cremini)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup grated Asiago cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour or cornstarch (for thickening)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor right from the start!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You want them juicy! Once done, take the chicken out and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sautéing the Mushrooms:
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them until they release all their moisture and get that nice golden color, which will take about 5 minutes. This will bring out a lovely flavor that complements the sauce!
4. Adding Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. You don’t want to burn it, so stay close!
5. Preparing the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any yummy bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. After that, stir in the heavy cream and grated Asiago cheese until it melts and the sauce thickens nicely. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add the optional flour or cornstarch now and stir continuously for a couple of minutes.
6. Seasoning and Finishing Touches:
Add the dried thyme and season the sauce with more salt and pepper to taste. Then, return the chicken breasts to the pan, spooning the sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for about 2-3 minutes. This is when the flavors meld beautifully!
7. Garnishing and Serving:
Finally, sprinkle some chopped parsley over the top for a nice fresh touch. Serve this creamy Asiago chicken over pasta, rice, or your favorite steamed vegetables for an easy and comforting meal!
Enjoy your delicious creation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best method is to leave it in the fridge overnight or quickly thaw it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Make sure to pat it dry before seasoning and cooking!
Can I Substitute Asiago Cheese?
Absolutely! If you can’t find Asiago, Parmesan or Pecorino Romano are great substitutes. They both have that lovely sharpness that works wonderfully in this creamy sauce!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Just keep them separate until you’re ready to serve. Reheat them together on low heat, adding a splash of cream to refresh the sauce if needed!
