Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 oz. chicken cutlets
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper (divided)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
Sauce & Vegetables
- 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (divided)
- 12 oz. cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup shallot, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon garlic, thinly sliced
- 3 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (plus more for garnish)
- 4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken cutlets evenly with 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and ground pepper to season them lightly and enhance flavor.
- Dredge Chicken in Flour: Place the all-purpose flour in a shallow dish. One cutlet at a time, dredge the chicken in the flour, pressing gently to coat thoroughly and shaking off any excess flour to avoid clumping.
- Prepare Chicken for Cooking: Arrange the coated chicken on a large plate and discard any leftover flour to keep the cooking process tidy.
- Heat Oil for Searing: In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil to prepare for searing the chicken.
- Sear Chicken: Add the chicken cutlets to the skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, until each side is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Remove Chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and do not wipe the oily residue from the pan, as it will be used to cook the vegetables and sauce.
- Cook Mushrooms: Return the skillet to medium-high heat and add the remaining 3 tablespoons of oil. Add the sliced mushrooms and spread them evenly over the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Sauté Aromatics: Stir the mushrooms, then add the thinly sliced shallots, garlic, and fresh thyme leaves. Cook while stirring frequently for 2 to 3 minutes until the shallots become translucent and the mixture is fragrant.
- Add Balsamic Vinegar: Stir in the balsamic vinegar and cook for about 1 minute, allowing the mushrooms to absorb the flavorful vinegar.
- Add Chicken Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer, which concentrates flavors.
- Incorporate Cream Cheese & Mustard: Stir in the softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and ground pepper. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has melted fully creating a creamy sauce.
- Return Chicken to Skillet: Place the chicken cutlets back into the pan. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to warm the chicken through and meld the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle additional fresh thyme leaves on top as garnish if desired. Serve immediately for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe eating.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet when searing chicken to maintain proper browning.
- Using low-sodium chicken broth helps control salt levels.
- Softened cream cheese blends more easily into the sauce for a smooth texture.
- Fresh thyme adds brightness; dried thyme can be used but use half the amount.
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to make a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American