Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Dredge in Flour: Lightly dredge each piece of chicken in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamed Onion and Mushroom Sauce
- Sauté Onions and Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add butter. Once melted, add the sliced onions and cook until they become translucent and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Create the Sauce Base: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and mushrooms, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Add Cream and Seasonings: Stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and Dijon mustard (if using). Simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the sauce is creamy and thickened. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
- Return Chicken to Skillet: Place the cooked chicken pieces back into the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over them.
- Simmer: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes to ensure it’s heated through and infused with the flavors of the sauce.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
- Serve: Serve the smothered chicken with your choice of sides such as mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Side Suggestions
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for pairing with the rich, flavorful sauce.
- Rice: A bed of fluffy rice makes a great base for the smothered chicken.
- Steamed Vegetables: Add some steamed green beans or broccoli for a balanced meal.
Tips and Tricks
- Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: Chicken thighs offer more flavor and are less likely to dry out compared to chicken breasts. Feel free to use either based on your preference.
- Cream Consistency: Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more or less cream, depending on your preference.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated gently on the stove. The flavors often improve after a day.
Conclusion
Smothered chicken with creamed onions and mushrooms is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken with a luscious, creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a hearty family meal or a special occasion. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy every delicious bite!