This Easy Creamy Asiago Chicken is a winner with its rich, cheesy sauce and tender chicken! It’s quick to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: For this dish, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a more tender option or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Mushrooms: I love using button or cremini mushrooms, but feel free to substitute with shiitake or portobello if you enjoy a deeper flavor.
Asiago Cheese: Asiago adds a flavorful kick! If you can’t find it, Parmesan or Gouda can be good alternatives, though they will change the flavor a bit.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, feel free to use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a non-dairy version. Just adjust seasoning as necessary.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with a few simple tips, you can get it just right. Start by making sure your skillet is hot enough. This helps sear the chicken nicely and keep it juicy!
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This keeps it moist and tender.
And remember, thinner pieces cook faster, so if your chicken breasts are thick, consider gently pounding them to an even thickness before cooking!
Easy Creamy Asiago Chicken
Ingredients
- 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Asiago cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like thyme/parsley
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes prepping and seasoning the chicken, and another 20 minutes cooking everything in the skillet. It’s a quick and easy meal that packs a lot of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step adds flavor right from the beginning!
2. Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the chicken breasts, cooking until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes on each side (cooking time may vary based on thickness). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm on a plate.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them until they are softened and lightly browned, which should take about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally for even cooking!
4. Add Garlic
Next, add the minced garlic to the mushrooms and cook for about 1 minute until you can smell the fantastic aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
5. Pour in Chicken Broth
After that, pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. This adds depth to the dish!
6. Create the Creamy Sauce
Now, reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Asiago cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce—this is where the magic happens!
7. Season the Sauce
Add the dried Italian seasoning (or fresh herbs if you’re using those) and stir well to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens up nicely.
8. Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some creamy sauce over the top, and let everything heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
9. Serve and Enjoy
Finally, if you like, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot alongside your choice of pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables—and enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!
This Easy Creamy Asiago Chicken is sure to become a favorite in your home! Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Asiago Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or place the chicken in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker thaw. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Asiago Cheese?
If you can’t find Asiago cheese, Parmesan or Gruyère can be good alternatives. Keep in mind that each cheese has a distinct flavor, so the final dish may taste a bit different, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy Asiago chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them when you’re ready to serve. Reheat gently over low heat to maintain creaminess!
