Creamy Amaretto Mushroom Chicken
Experience the delightful flavors of Creamy Amaretto Mushroom Chicken! This mouthwatering dish features tender boneless chicken breasts smothered in a rich and creamy sauce infused with the sweetness of amaretto liqueur and complemented by savory mushrooms and fragrant herbs. With a touch of garlic and topped with melted gruyère cheese, this recipe transforms simple chicken into a gourmet meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Whether you're an onion skeptic or a mushroom lover, this dish allows you to customize flavors while ensuring a delicious experience. Serve with your favorite sides and watch it disappear!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
1/2 cup (divided in half)
boneless chicken breasts
3-4 (halves)
green onions
3 (diced)
fresh mushrooms
1 lb (sliced)
fresh tarragon
1/2 teaspoon (fresh)
garlic
3 cloves (crushed)
heavy cream
1 cup (none)
shredded gruyère cheese
1 cup (none)
amaretto liqueur
1/2 cup (none)
capers
1/4 cup (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is hot and bubbling, add the boneless chicken breasts and brown them on both sides for 3-4 minutes each. Transfer the browned chicken to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
3
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1/4 cup of butter along with the diced green onions, sliced mushrooms, crushed garlic, and tarragon. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the onions are translucent.
4
In a separate saucepan, combine the heavy cream, shredded gruyère cheese, and amaretto. Heat gently while whisking until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5
Stir the capers into the sautéed mushroom mixture, then pour this mixture evenly over the chicken in the baking dish.
6
Finally, pour the creamy amaretto sauce over the top of the chicken and bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
7
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your gourmet meal!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Amaretto Mushroom Chicken?
It is a gourmet main course featuring boneless chicken breasts cooked in a rich, creamy sauce made with amaretto liqueur, mushrooms, and melted gruy8re cheese.
What kind of chicken should I use?
The recipe calls for 3 to 4 boneless chicken breast halves.
What does amaretto add to the flavor?
Amaretto liqueur provides a subtle, sweet almond-like flavor that complements the earthy mushrooms and savory garlic.
Can I substitute the amaretto?
If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can use a small amount of almond extract or omit it, though the signature flavor profile will change.
What is gruy8re cheese?
Gruy8re is a hard yellow Swiss cheese that is sweet, slightly salty, and melts very well, making it perfect for creamy sauces.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Swiss or mozzarella cheese if gruy8re is unavailable.
Why do I need to brown the chicken first?
Browning the chicken in butter for 3-4 minutes per side helps lock in juices and creates a better texture before the final baking step.
What type of mushrooms work best?
Fresh white button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms are recommended for this recipe.
Can I use dried tarragon instead of fresh?
Yes, but since dried herbs are more concentrated, use about one-third of the amount of fresh tarragon called for.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What is the purpose of adding capers?
Capers add a briny, salty pop that helps cut through the richness of the heavy cream and cheese sauce.
Can I omit the capers?
Yes, if you do not enjoy the flavor of capers, you can leave them out of the recipe.
What oven temperature is required?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How long does the dish need to bake?
The chicken should bake for approximately 40 minutes.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
The primary ingredients are gluten-free, but always check the labels on your amaretto and chicken broth or seasonings.
What should I serve with this chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed green vegetables to soak up the extra cream sauce.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The recipe makes approximately 3 to 4 servings depending on the size of the chicken breasts.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Heavy cream is recommended for the best thickness and richness, but half-and-half can be used for a lighter version.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Creamy Amaretto Mushroom Chicken?
You can freeze it, but be aware that the cream sauce may separate slightly when thawed and reheated.
Is the garlic crushed or minced?
The recipe specifically calls for 3 cloves of crushed garlic.
What size baking dish is needed?
A standard 9x13 inch baking dish is ideal for this recipe.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes would make excellent additions to the mushroom mixture.
Does the alcohol in the amaretto cook off?
Most of the alcohol evaporates during the 40-minute baking time, leaving the flavor behind.
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, though you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.
Why should the chicken rest after baking?
Resting for a few minutes allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it remains tender.
What if I don't like green onions?
You can substitute them with finely diced shallots or white onions for a similar aromatic base.
How much butter is used in total?
A total of 1/2 cup of butter is used, divided into two 1/4 cup portions for browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables.
Can I make this on the stovetop only?
While baking is recommended for the best cheese melt, you could simmer the chicken in the sauce in a covered skillet until cooked through.
Is this dish suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! Its gourmet ingredients and rich sauce make it a favorite for dinner parties and family celebrations.