Savory Braised Chicken with Mushroom Pasta Sauce
Experience a delightful blend of flavors with this Savory Braised Chicken with Mushroom Pasta Sauce, inspired by the renowned 'Newman's Own' Cookbook. This dish highlights tender chicken pieces that are beautifully braised in a rich pasta sauce, enriched with quartered mushrooms and topped with crunchy walnuts and fresh herbs. Ideal for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe brings a hearty rustic charm to your table. While Paul Newman's 'Say Cheese' pasta sauce is a classic choice, any favorite pasta sauce will elevate the flavor and make this dish your own.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken
8 pieces (whole or cut into parts)
kosher salt
to taste (seasoning)
fresh ground black pepper
to taste (seasoning)
all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (for dredging)
vegetable oil
1/4 cup (for frying)
mushrooms
8 ounces (quartered)
dry white wine
1/2 cup (optional, for deglazing)
pasta sauce
1 (16 ounce) jar (Newman's Own or your preferred brand)
walnuts
1/2 cup (chopped)
fresh basil or fresh parsley
1/4 cup (chopped)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Braised Chicken with Mushroom Pasta Sauce?
It is a hearty dish featuring chicken pieces dredged in flour, browned, and then simmered in a rich mushroom-infused pasta sauce, inspired by the Newman's Own cookbook.
What type of chicken pieces are best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 8 pieces of chicken, which can be a whole chicken cut into parts or specific pieces like thighs and drumsticks.
Do I have to use Newman's Own pasta sauce?
While the recipe is inspired by Newman's Own 'Say Cheese' sauce, you can use any 16-ounce jar of your favorite pasta sauce.
How should the mushrooms be prepared?
For the best texture and appearance in the sauce, the 8 ounces of mushrooms should be quartered.
Is the dry white wine mandatory?
No, the 1/2 cup of dry white wine is optional and is used primarily for deglazing the pan to add depth to the flavor.
What can I use as a substitute for white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can use chicken broth or a small amount of water with a splash of lemon juice for deglazing.
What purpose does the flour serve in this recipe?
The 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour is used to dredge the chicken, which helps create a golden crust when frying and helps thicken the sauce during braising.
Can I use a different type of oil for frying?
The recipe suggests vegetable oil, but any neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or grapeseed oil, will work well.
Why are walnuts included in a chicken pasta dish?
Chopped walnuts are added as a topping to provide a unique crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender braised chicken.
Which fresh herbs are recommended for garnish?
The recipe recommends using 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil or fresh parsley to add a burst of color and freshness.
How many people does this recipe serve?
Based on the 8 pieces of chicken and the volume of sauce, this recipe typically serves 4 to 6 people.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for dredging, and ensure your pasta sauce is certified gluten-free.
What is the best way to season the chicken?
Season the chicken pieces generously with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste before dredging them in flour.
What does it mean to 'braise' the chicken?
Braising involves first searing the meat at a high temperature and then finishing it in a covered pot with a smaller amount of liquid, like pasta sauce, at a lower temperature.
Can I use chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but be careful not to overcook them as breasts dry out faster than bone-in thighs or drumsticks during the braising process.
Should I wash the mushrooms before quartering them?
It is better to wipe mushrooms with a damp paper towel rather than washing them, as they absorb water and can become soggy.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the braised chicken and sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What should I serve as a side dish?
This dish pairs perfectly with cooked pasta, creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or a simple crusty bread to soak up the mushroom sauce.
Is this a quick weeknight meal?
Yes, because it uses a jarred pasta sauce as a base, it significantly reduces prep time while still offering a gourmet, slow-cooked taste.
Can I use dried herbs if I don't have fresh?
You can use dried basil or parsley, but reduce the amount to about 1-2 tablespoons as dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh.
What kind of mushrooms work best?
White button mushrooms or cremini (baby bella) mushrooms are excellent choices for this savory sauce.
How do I ensure the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?
Yes, bell peppers, onions, or zucchini would make great additions to the braising liquid along with the mushrooms.
Do I need to peel the chicken?
The recipe doesn't specify, but keeping the skin on while frying adds flavor and texture, though you can remove it if you prefer a lower-fat option.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food due to its hearty nature, rich sauce, and warm, rustic charm.
What if I don't like walnuts?
You can omit the walnuts entirely or substitute them with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a different flavor profile.
How much oil is used for frying?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of vegetable oil to ensure the chicken pieces are properly browned.
Is this dish spicy?
The dish is savory rather than spicy. If you prefer heat, you can add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
What is the inspiration behind this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by the culinary style found in the 'Newman's Own' Cookbook, emphasizing quality ingredients and easy preparation.