Save Tender chicken breasts simmered with earthy mushrooms and fragrant tarragon in a creamy, one-pan sauce—perfect for an elegant yet easy weeknight dinner.
This recipe provides a delicious and easy way to enjoy a French inspired dish that feels elegant but is simple enough for weeknights.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: about 600 g
- Mushrooms: 250 g (9 oz) cremini or white mushrooms sliced
- Shallot: 1 medium finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced
- Heavy cream: 120 ml (½ cup)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Chicken broth: 120 ml (½ cup) low sodium
- Tarragon: 2 tbsp fresh chopped or 2 tsp dried
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Fresh tarragon sprigs: optional garnish
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Step 2:
- In a large skillet over medium high heat heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Add chicken breasts and sear for 4 5 minutes per side until golden and mostly cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and cover loosely.
- Step 3:
- Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining olive oil and butter to the same skillet. Add shallot and sauté for 2 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Step 4:
- Stir in mushrooms and cook stirring occasionally for 5 6 minutes until browned and any released liquid has mostly evaporated.
- Step 5:
- Pour in chicken broth scraping up any browned bits. Stir in heavy cream and tarragon. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Step 6:
- Return chicken breasts to the skillet nestling them into the sauce. Cook uncovered for 5 7 minutes or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 74°C/165°F) and sauce has thickened slightly.
- Step 7:
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh tarragon if desired. Serve hot.
Pin it My family loves gathering around this dish especially on chilly evenings when a comforting meal is just what we need.
Wine Pairing
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the tarragon and mushrooms beautifully enhancing the flavors.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (butter cream). Confirm chicken broth is gluten free if required. Always check product labels for allergens if unsure.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 390 Total Fat 23 g Carbohydrates 6 g Protein 39 g
Pin it This skillet meal is an effortless way to bring gourmet flavors home with minimal cleanup.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of mushrooms work best?
Cremini or white mushrooms provide an earthy flavor and firm texture that complements the chicken well.
- → Can I substitute the cream for a lighter option?
Yes, using half-and-half or a lighter dairy alternative will reduce richness while maintaining creaminess.
- → How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Chicken is done when cooked through with an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) and juices run clear.
- → Is fresh tarragon preferable over dried?
Fresh tarragon provides more vibrant aroma and flavor, but dried tarragon works well if used in smaller amounts.
- → What side dishes pair well with this skillet?
Rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread are excellent choices to soak up the creamy sauce.