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 cozy skillet has become my go to when I want a quick but impressive dinner that tastes like I spent hours.
Ingredients
- Meats: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 600 g)
- Vegetables: 250 g (9 oz) cremini or white mushrooms sliced, 1 medium shallot finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced
- Dairy: 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream, 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Pantry: 2 tbsp olive oil, 120 ml (½ cup) low sodium chicken broth
- Herbs & Seasonings: 2 tbsp fresh tarragon chopped (or 2 tsp dried tarragon), Salt and black pepper to taste
- Garnish (optional): Fresh tarragon sprigs
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.
Save My family gathers around this dish every Friday and it never fails to bring smiles and second helpings.
Wine Pairing
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the tarragon and mushrooms beautifully enhancing the meal without overpowering the delicate sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with rice mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce and complete the meal.
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop Adding a splash of broth helps maintain creaminess.
Save This skillet dish transforms simple ingredients into a comforting elegant dinner perfect any night of the week.
Recipe FAQ
- → What kind of mushrooms work best in this dish?
Cremini or white mushrooms provide a mild, earthy flavor that pairs well with the creamy tarragon sauce.
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs are a great substitute for juicier, more flavorful results.
- → How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- → Is it possible to lighten the sauce?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter, less rich sauce without sacrificing creaminess.
- → What side dishes complement this skillet meal?
Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well and flavors meld nicely if made a few hours in advance and gently reheated.