Hearty Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Dinner
45
min
463
Calories
6g
Fats
47g
Carbs
36g
Protein
Discover the comfort of this Hearty Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Dinner! It's a fulfilling meal that combines tender chicken, flavorful mushrooms, and pasta in a savory broth, making it a perfect dish for those cozy evenings at home.
Ingredients:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Water
Start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. This will be for cooking your pasta until it's perfectly al dente. Meanwhile, let's get the chicken ready for a flavorful sautéeing!
Pro Tip: Adding a splash of olive oil to the boiling water prevents pasta from sticking.
Step 2: Season and Dredge the Chicken
Season the all-purpose flour with a good pinch of salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken breast half in the seasoned flour, ensuring a light, even coat. Shake off any excess flour. This step not only flavors the chicken but also helps in creating a lightly crispy exterior while keeping the interior juicy as it cooks.
Pro Tip: A zip-top bag works wonderfully for dredging, and it's less messy!
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken and Mushrooms
Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy non-stick skillet over high heat. Add the chicken, browning on one side (about 3 minutes). Then, introduce the minced garlic and flip the chicken. Scatter the sliced mushrooms over and around the chicken. Cook for another 3 minutes, giving the skillet a gentle shake now and then to distribute the mushrooms. This not only cooks the chicken but also lets the mushrooms soak up the aromatic flavors.
Pro Tip: Keep the heat high to get a good sear on the chicken, locking in juices.
Step 4: Simmer with Flavors
Pour in the vinegar and chicken broth, then add the bay leaves and thyme. Lightly cover the skillet and let it simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes. Turning the chicken once ensures even cooking. Uncovering will help thicken the sauce slightly, concentrating the flavors.
Pro Tip: This simmering time is perfect for flavor infusion. Don't rush it!
Step 5: Finish the Chicken and Mushrooms
Transfer the cooked chicken to a warm plate and cover with aluminum foil to keep it warm. Continue cooking the mushrooms in the now flavorful broth for another 7 minutes, allowing them to become fully tender and the sauce to thicken beautifully. Meanwhile, it's time to get your pasta perfectly cooked!
Pro Tip: Covering the chicken with foil prevents it from cooling down while you finish the sauce.
Step 6: Cook Pasta and Combine
By now, your pasta water should be boiling and ready. Cook the pasta, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain well. Plate the pasta as a beautiful nest on your serving dish, then carefully arrange the chicken pieces over the top. Finally, remove the bay leaves from the sauce, and generously spoon the rich mushroom sauce over both the chicken and pasta.
Pro Tip: Al dente pasta not only has a better texture but also holds up well with the sauce.
