This Creamy Asiago Chicken is a dream come true for cheese lovers! Juicy chicken is smothered in a rich, cheesy Asiago sauce that’s super comforting and utterly delicious.
I love how quick this dish is to make. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when I want something warm and tasty without a lot of fuss. Serve it with pasta or veggies, and enjoy the cheesy goodness! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use either chicken breasts or thighs, but thighs tend to be juicier. If you’re short on chicken, you might consider using boneless turkey cutlets as a tasty alternative.
Mushrooms: I prefer using cremini or button mushrooms, but you can substitute with shiitake or portobello if you want a deeper flavor. If mushrooms are a no-go, sun-dried tomatoes add a nice touch too!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, try using half-and-half or even coconut milk. Keep in mind that the sauce will be less rich, but still delicious.
Asiago Cheese: While Asiago is great for its sharp flavor, you can replace it with Parmesan or Romano cheese. Just remember, the saltiness might differ, so taste as you go!
Thyme: If you don’t have thyme, Italian seasoning or oregano would work well. Fresh herbs can add a lovely brightness, so don’t hesitate to swap them in!
How Do You Get Perfectly Sautéed Chicken?
Searing the chicken properly is key to keeping it juicy and flavorful. Begin by making sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil. This helps form a nice crust on the chicken.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to ensure the chicken browns instead of steams.
- Let the chicken cook undisturbed for several minutes on each side—resist the urge to flip it too soon!
How Can You Make the Sauce Extra Creamy?
For an ultra-creamy sauce, here’s a tip: let the cream simmer gently after adding it to the skillet, just until it reduces a little. This thickens the sauce nicely without needing any flour or cornstarch!
- Stir continuously as you add the cheese for an even melt and creamy texture.
- Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning, as the cheese brings its own saltiness!
This Creamy Asiago Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also sure to impress anyone you serve it to. Enjoy!
How to Make Creamy Asiago Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or butter for frying
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Asiago cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for garnish)
Optional:
- 1 tablespoon flour (for dredging chicken for extra crust)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to impress guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. If you want a crispier outer layer, gently dredge each piece in flour.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms:
In the same skillet, add more oil or butter if necessary. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and sauté them until they are browned and softened, which should take about 5 minutes.
4. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 more minute until you can smell that delicious fragrance!
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and the heavy cream, stirring well to combine everything. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer and let it reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes.
6. Add the Cheese:
Slowly whisk in the grated Asiago cheese along with the thyme, continuing to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Taste your sauce and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Now it’s time to return the cooked chicken to the skillet! Place it into the sauce and spoon some of that delicious creamy mixture over each piece.
8. Final Simmer:
Let everything simmer together for another 3-5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some dried or fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. This dish pairs wonderfully over pasta, rice, or veggies.
10. Enjoy!
Dig in and savor this indulgent creamy Asiago chicken with savory mushrooms. Your taste buds will thank you!
FAQ for Creamy Asiago Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Asiago gives a distinct flavor, you can substitute it with Parmesan or Romano cheese. Just taste as you go since the saltiness differs with each cheese.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply skip the flour for dredging the chicken. You can also use a gluten-free flour blend if you prefer that crispy crust.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can sear the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and sauce together until warmed through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce if needed.
