Creamy Asiago Chicken Skillet

This Creamy Asiago Chicken Skillet is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken breasts and savory mushrooms in a rich, creamy garlic-thyme sauce. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep for the week ahead. The balance of flavors and ease of preparation makes this dish a standout option for both novice and experienced cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: This recipe comes together in just 29 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy nights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of asiago cheese, garlic, and thyme creates a creamy sauce that elevates the chicken to new heights.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute ingredients based on what you have at home, allowing for personalized variations.
• Low Carb Friendly: This dish is low in carbs, making it suitable for those following a low-carb diet.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it great for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Creamy Asiago Chicken Skillet, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Meat tenderizer
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: This is crucial for cooking the chicken evenly and creating the creamy sauce in one pan.
• Meat tenderizer: Tenderizing the chicken helps ensure it cooks quickly and remains juicy.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to slice and prepare your ingredients without cross-contamination.

Ingredients

This Skillet Asiago Chicken and Mushrooms combines tender chicken breasts with mushrooms in a creamy garlic-thyme sauce for a quick weeknight meal.

For the Chicken

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For Cooking

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

For the Sauce

• 8 oz sliced mushrooms
• 1 bunch green onions, chopped, reserving the green ends for serving
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup heavy cream, or half and half
• ¾ cup shredded asiago cheese, or parmesan cheese

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Creamy Asiago Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thin pieces.
2. Use a meat tenderizer to pound both sides of each piece gently.
3. Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Place seasoned chicken into the skillet and cook each side for about 3 minutes until cooked through (add more time if thicker).
3. Remove cooked chicken from the skillet and cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add minced garlic, sliced mushrooms, chopped green onions, and thyme.
2. Sauté these ingredients for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in heavy cream and let simmer for 5 minutes while stirring frequently.

Step 4: Add Cheese to Sauce

1. Incorporate asiago cheese into the skillet.
2. Stir until melted and sauce thickens; season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce

1. Return cooked chicken back to the skillet.
2. Spoon creamy sauce and mushrooms over each piece of chicken.
3. Serve immediately garnished with fresh thyme, green onions, and additional asiago cheese if desired.

Now you have everything you need to create this delicious Creamy Asiago Chicken Skillet! Enjoy your cooking experience!

How to Serve Creamy Asiago Chicken Skillet

Serving Creamy Asiago Chicken Skillet is not just about the dish itself; it’s about creating a delightful meal experience. Here are some delicious ways to enhance your serving.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.
• Caesar Salad: The crunch of romaine and the creamy dressing pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the chicken.

Add Some Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up that creamy sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls provide a nice contrast to the dish and are great for mopping up any remaining sauce.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle extra thyme or parsley on top for added freshness and color.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon just before serving can brighten the flavors of the dish.

How to Perfect Creamy Asiago Chicken Skillet

To achieve a flawless Creamy Asiago Chicken Skillet, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Thin Cuts: Slice chicken breasts thinly for quicker cooking and more tender results.
• Control Heat: Cook on medium heat to prevent burning while ensuring chicken cooks through.
• Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream without sacrificing flavor.
• Experiment with Cheese: While asiago is delicious, feel free to mix in parmesan or mozzarella for varied taste.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh thyme and garlic for the best flavor, as dried herbs can be less potent.
• Season Well: Don’t forget to season your sauce with salt and pepper after adding cheese for the best taste balance.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Asiago Chicken Skillet

When enjoying your Creamy Asiago Chicken Skillet, pairing it with the right side dishes enhances its appeal. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A simple side that adds color and nutrients while balancing out the rich flavors of the chicken.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini roasted until caramelized create a sweet contrast to savory chicken.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that works wonderfully with the sauce.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and feta offers a refreshing element to your meal.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf adds a nutty flavor that complements the creamy texture of the chicken skillet.
6. Pasta Primavera: Tossed pasta with seasonal vegetables makes for a hearty side that fits perfectly into an Italian-American theme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Creamy Asiago Chicken Skillet, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Tenderizing Step: Not pounding the chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Always tenderize your chicken for a more uniform texture.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking too long can dry out the chicken. Monitor closely, and remove when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

• Not Seasoning Properly: Failing to season your chicken can result in bland flavors. Be generous with salt and pepper, and consider marinating for extra taste.

• Ignoring the Cream Sauce: Letting the cream simmer for too long can cause it to curdle. Stir frequently and keep an eye on the heat to maintain consistency.

• Rushing the Sautéing Process: Overcrowding the skillet when sautéing mushrooms can lead to steaming instead of browning. Cook them in batches if necessary for better flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Creamy Asiago Chicken Skillet in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Asiago Chicken Skillet

• You can freeze portions of this dish in freezer-safe containers.
• It lasts for about 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Creamy Asiago Chicken Skillet

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of cream if it seems thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other cheeses in this Creamy Asiago Chicken Skillet?

Yes! While asiago adds a unique flavor, you can substitute parmesan or mozzarella for different tastes.

How do I make this dish lower in calories?

To reduce calories, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or choose skinless chicken thighs.

What side dishes pair well with Creamy Asiago Chicken Skillet?

This dish goes great with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Spinach or bell peppers would add color and nutrition—just sauté them along with the mushrooms.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Asiago Chicken Skillet is not only quick and delicious but also versatile enough for any weeknight dinner. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or trying different herbs. We encourage you to give this recipe a try; you’ll love its rich flavors and creamy texture!