Chicken Tenderloins in Mushroom Sauce: A Comforting Weeknight Dinner
If you’re looking for a recipe that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day, look no further than Chicken Tenderloins in Mushroom Sauce. This dish strikes the perfect balance between gourmet flavors and weeknight convenience. With tender, juicy chicken and a creamy, savory mushroom sauce, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up.
Why Chicken Tenderloins?
Chicken tenderloins are a hidden gem in the poultry section. They’re lean, quick-cooking, and incredibly tender, making them ideal for fast yet flavorful meals. Their smaller size allows them to soak up seasonings and sauces beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
The Magic of Mushroom Sauce
The creamy mushroom sauce is the star of this dish. Earthy mushrooms, aromatic garlic, and a touch of cream come together to create a rich, velvety sauce that complements the mild flavor of the chicken. This sauce also pairs well with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or even a slice of crusty bread to soak up every drop.
Recipe: Chicken Tenderloins in Mushroom Sauce
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or a mix)
- 1 can of chicken chicken broth
- 2 tbsp of soy or tamari sauce
- 2 tbsp corn starch
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add a little more oil or butter if needed. Sauté the onion until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Cook the Mushrooms: Stir in the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and begin to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken stock and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (they add flavor!). Stir in the cream and Dijon mustard, if using. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine: Return the chicken tenderloins to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to warm through and meld the flavors.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms yield the best flavor and texture. Pre-sliced options can save time but may not be as fresh.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the sauce while simmering.
- Customizations: Add a splash of white wine for extra depth or stir in spinach at the end for a pop of color and added nutrients.
This Chicken Tenderloins in Mushroom Sauce recipe is versatile, comforting, and perfect for impressing your family or dinner guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Try it tonight and savor every creamy, flavorful bite!
