Creamy Chicken Gloria is a cozy dish that’s perfect for easy dinners! It features tender chicken cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with mushrooms and seasonings that make every bite satisfying.
This dish is a lifesaver on busy nights. Just cook the chicken, whip up the sauce, and serve it over rice or pasta. Trust me, your family will love it! 🍗❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more flavor or even turkey breast as a lean alternative.
Mushrooms: I recommend cremini for their richer taste, but white button mushrooms work just fine. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can skip them or replace them with spinach for a pop of color and nutrition.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives the sauce its richness. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option. The sauce may be less thick, but it will still be delicious!
White Wine: This ingredient adds depth of flavor. If you don’t want to use wine, chicken broth does the job well. You can also use a splash of lemon juice for acidity without alcohol.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a lovely tanginess. If you don’t have Dijon, you could use yellow mustard or even omit it for a milder flavor.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking your chicken just right is essential for this dish. Here are some tips:
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy; aim for 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep it juicy.
- Cooking the chicken over medium-high heat helps achieve a golden surface while keeping the inside moist. Adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Sauce?
Achieving the right sauce thickness enhances the dish. Here’s how:
- After adding the cream, let it simmer gently to reduce and thicken. Don’t rush this step!
- If you want it thicker, you can mix a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch with water) into the sauce.
- Adding grated cheese like Parmesan will also naturally thicken the sauce while adding flavor.
Now, you’re all set to make a memorable Creamy Chicken Gloria. ENJOY! 🍽️
How to Make Creamy Chicken Gloria
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini or white button)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional; can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 30 minutes to create a delicious meal for your family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. This simple step adds flavor to the chicken as it cooks.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on their thickness. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms:
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Cook them until they release their moisture and become nicely browned, about 5 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the mushrooms.
4. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
5. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth if you prefer) and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pan to pick up all those tasty browned bits—this is where the flavor is!
6. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, grated Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure to coat them well in the creamy sauce. Let everything warm together for another 2-3 minutes.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve the Chicken Gloria hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a cozy and satisfying dinner.
Enjoy!
Relish in the deliciousness of your homemade Creamy Chicken Gloria! This dish is sure to be a hit! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Chicken Gloria
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is in the fridge overnight, or you can use the cold water method by sealing the chicken in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different but the flavor will still be great!
How to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to avoid uneven heating.
What Sides Pair Well with Creamy Chicken Gloria?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta to soak up the creamy sauce. You could also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal!
