Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 10 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 lb. asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch segments
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup Madeira Wine
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Mushrooms and Asparagus: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Add the asparagus and minced garlic, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the asparagus is tender-crisp.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour the Madeira wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth and cornstarch until smooth. Pour the mixture into the skillet with the mushrooms and asparagus, stirring to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Return the Chicken to the Skillet: Nestle the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
- Finish in the Oven: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and broil for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve the Chicken Madeira hot, accompanied by your favorite side dishes.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Opt for Thinly Sliced Chicken: For quicker cooking and more even cooking, you can pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking.
- Substitute Other Vegetables: Feel free to customize the dish by using your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a touch of richness to the sauce by incorporating a tablespoon of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: What is Madeira wine, and where can I find it? A: Madeira wine is a fortified wine produced on the Portuguese island of Madeira. It has a rich, complex flavor with notes of caramel and nuts. You can find Madeira wine in the wine section of most well-stocked supermarkets or liquor stores.
Q: Can I use a different type of wine in this recipe? A: While Madeira wine is traditionally used in Chicken Madeira for its distinct flavor, you can substitute it with other types of fortified wines such as Marsala or dry sherry.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? A: The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when tested with a meat thermometer. Alternatively, you can slice into the thickest part of the chicken to check for doneness.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: While Chicken Madeira is best served fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving. Store the cooked chicken and vegetables separately in the refrigerator, then reheat and finish the dish in the oven before serving.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how you can modify the recipe:
- Use Keto-Friendly Thickeners: Instead of cornstarch, use xanthan gum or glucomannan powder as a low-carb thickener for the sauce.
- Adjust Wine Amount: Reduce the amount of Madeira wine used in the recipe to lower the carb content, or substitute it with additional beef broth.
- Serve with Cauliflower Rice: Instead of pasta or bread, serve the Chicken Madeira over cauliflower rice for a delicious low-carb option.
Chicken Madeira is a dish that elevates any meal into a gourmet experience, with its succulent chicken, earthy mushrooms, and velvety wine sauce. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a delicious dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. With its versatility and irresistible flavor, Chicken Madeira is a timeless classic that deserves a place at your table. So embrace the elegance and sophistication of this dish, and delight in every luxurious bite!
Do you have any questions or suggestions about this recipe? Feel free to leave a comment below!
