Balsamic Chicken and Mushrooms

A quick buttery balsamic pan sauce brings a ton of flavor to these Balsamic Chicken and Mushrooms without a lot of work. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, offering a savory blend of chicken and mushrooms that makes for an impressive meal. Whether you’re serving it to family or guests, the delicious flavors and simple preparation will leave everyone satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Flavorful Sauce: The buttery balsamic pan sauce infuses the chicken and mushrooms with rich flavors, elevating this dish beyond ordinary weeknight fare.
• Versatile Ingredients: This recipe uses common pantry staples, making it easy to whip up any night of the week.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the chicken thighs and nutrients from the mushrooms, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the balsamic sauce and sautéed mushrooms make this meal visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To make Balsamic Chicken and Mushrooms successfully, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Small bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space to cook the chicken and mushrooms evenly while allowing for proper browning.
• Small bowl: Ideal for mixing the balsamic sauce without needing a larger container, which saves on cleanup.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick, safe slicing of ingredients like garlic and mushrooms.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for chopping.

Ingredients

A quick buttery balsamic pan sauce brings a ton of flavor to these Balsamic Chicken and Mushrooms without a lot of work. Perfect for weeknight dinners!

For the Sauce:

• 4 Tbsp balsamic vinegar ($0.55)
• 1.5 Tbsp soy sauce ($0.18)
• 1 Tbsp brown sugar ($0.04)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced ($0.16)
• 1/4 tsp dried thyme ($0.02)

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.25 lbs. total) ($3.02)
• 1 pinch salt and pepper ($0.05)
• 1 Tbsp olive oil ($0.16)

For the Mushrooms:

• 8 oz. mushrooms ($1.69)

For Finishing:

• 2 Tbsp butter ($0.26)

How to Make Balsamic Chicken and Mushrooms

Step 1: Prepare the Balsamic Sauce

In a small bowl, stir together the balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and dried thyme until well combined. Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken thighs with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add olive oil and swirl it around to coat the skillet’s surface thoroughly. Carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet.
1. Cook for about 8 minutes on one side until browned.
2. Flip the chicken thighs over and cook for another 5 minutes until fully cooked through.
3. Remove cooked chicken from the skillet onto a clean plate and cover to keep warm.

Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms

While your chicken is cooking, clean your mushrooms by wiping them down with a damp cloth or paper towel then slice them in half.
1. After removing chicken from skillet, place sliced mushrooms in hot oil remaining in skillet.
2. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and slightly browned.

Step 5: Combine Sauce with Mushrooms

Reduce heat to medium-low before adding prepared balsamic sauce into the skillet with sautéed mushrooms.
1. Stir well to dissolve any browned bits stuck at bottom of skillet.
2. Allow mixture to come up to a simmer; let it simmer for approximately 5 minutes until sauce reduces by half.

Step 6: Finish with Butter & Serve

Add butter into skillet, stirring until melted into delicious sauce mixture.
1. Return cooked chicken back into skillet; turn pieces gently to coat each thigh in flavorful sauce.
2. Let it simmer briefly more until heated through before serving hot.

Enjoy drizzling extra pan sauce over both chicken thighs and mushrooms when plating!

How to Serve Balsamic Chicken and Mushrooms

Balsamic Chicken and Mushrooms is a delicious dish that can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance the meal.

With Fresh Greens

• A light salad made with mixed greens pairs perfectly, adding freshness and crunch.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Serving the chicken and mushrooms over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa absorbs the rich balsamic sauce and adds heartiness.

On Pasta

• Tossing the chicken and mushrooms with your favorite pasta creates a comforting dish, perfect for any dinner table.

With Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm crusty bread is great for soaking up the flavorful pan sauce, making every bite enjoyable.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and serve alongside cheeses, olives, and nuts for an elegant appetizer option.

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How to Perfect Balsamic Chicken and Mushrooms

Perfecting Balsamic Chicken and Mushrooms is all about technique and ingredients. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Quality Ingredients: Use fresh mushrooms and high-quality balsamic vinegar for the most flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken thighs in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
• Let it Rest: Allow chicken to rest after cooking for juicier meat when serving.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving; you might want to add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Consider adding fresh thyme or parsley as a garnish for added flavor and color.
• Simmer Gently: Keep the heat low when simmering the sauce to prevent burning while allowing it to thicken nicely.

Best Side Dishes for Balsamic Chicken and Mushrooms

Pairing side dishes with Balsamic Chicken and Mushrooms can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic provide a comforting base that complements the dish well.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color, nutrition, and texture to your plate.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus adds a fresh element that balances the richness of the chicken.
4. Cauliflower Rice: Light yet filling, cauliflower rice is a healthy alternative that soaks up flavors beautifully.
5. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs makes for a delightful side that pairs well with chicken dishes.
6. Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach brings vibrant greens to your plate while being simple to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Balsamic Chicken and Mushrooms turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes that can affect flavor and texture.

• Skipping the marinating step: Marinating your chicken enhances flavor. Always allow it to sit in the balsamic sauce for at least 30 minutes.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Cooking too many chicken thighs at once can lead to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches for optimal results.
• Ignoring mushroom preparation: Not cleaning or slicing mushrooms properly can lead to uneven cooking. Always clean thoroughly and slice them evenly.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving. Adjusting salt and pepper levels ensures balanced flavors in your dish.
• Forgetting to let the sauce reduce: Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens. This step intensifies the flavors and creates a rich pan sauce.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Balsamic Chicken and Mushrooms

• Place chicken and mushrooms in a freezer-safe container.
• Use within 2-3 months for ideal taste and texture.

Reheating Balsamic Chicken and Mushrooms

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Balsamic Chicken and Mushrooms.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but be mindful of cooking time as they may cook faster than thighs.

What type of mushrooms work best?

Button mushrooms are popular, but you can also use cremini or shiitake for added flavor.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep your Balsamic Chicken and Mushrooms gluten-free while maintaining flavor.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can enhance both nutrition and color.

How can I customize the balsamic sauce?

Feel free to incorporate herbs like rosemary or parsley for additional depth of flavor in your balsamic sauce.

Final Thoughts

Balsamic Chicken and Mushrooms is not only easy to prepare but also offers a delightful combination of flavors that is sure to please any palate. Its versatility allows for customization with various herbs or vegetables, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the heartwarming flavors it brings!