If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Sherry Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy chicken cutlets seared to golden perfection swim in a luscious sauce made with earthy cremini mushrooms, a splash of aromatic sherry, and rich, velvety cream. This dish effortlessly balances comfort and elegance, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become one of your cherished go-to meals that leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first exciting step toward making this flavorful Creamy Sherry Chicken Recipe come to life. Each element is simple but essential, contributing just the right texture, richness, and depth of flavor to the final dish.
- Chicken breasts: Splitting them in half lengthwise ensures quick, even cooking and tender results.
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory base note that complements the sauce perfectly.
- Salt & pepper: Basic seasoning that elevates the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce.
- Flour: For dredging, it helps create a nice crust on the chicken and slightly thickens the sauce.
- Olive oil: Provides a lovely sear and depth to the chicken without overpowering the flavors.
- Butter: Used in two stages, it enriches both the chicken and the sauce for ultimate creaminess.
- Cremini mushrooms: Their earthy flavor and texture add complexity and heartiness to the dish.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and a mild bite, balancing the creaminess beautifully.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend enhancing the overall flavor profile with herbs.
- Garlic clove: Fresh garlic takes the savory notes to the next level with its aromatic punch.
- Dry sherry: This is the star ingredient, lending a subtle nuttiness and depth that transform the sauce.
- Heavy cream: The final touch that makes the sauce irresistibly rich and silky smooth.
How to Make Creamy Sherry Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. This ensures they cook evenly and quickly. Sprinkle both sides generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then dredge each piece in flour. This step sets the foundation for a beautifully crispy sear and helps thicken the sauce later on.
Step 2: Heat Up the Pan with Oil and Butter
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and one tablespoon of butter. Let the pan get nice and hot so when the chicken goes in, it sizzles immediately. This hot start is what gives the chicken that golden crust which locks in juices and flavor.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken to Perfection
Place the floured chicken cutlets in the skillet, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want a gorgeous golden brown color that develops a slightly crispy texture, making every bite irresistible. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest while you prepare the sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Mushrooms and Onions
Into the same skillet, add the remaining butter, sliced cremini mushrooms, chopped onion, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and both the mushrooms and onions become tender and flavorful. This step builds the rich, savory base for the sauce.
Step 5: Add Fresh Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Garlic warms up quickly and adding it here infuses the sauce with a fresh, aromatic boost that pairs beautifully with the earthiness of the mushrooms and sherry.
Step 6: Deglaze with Dry Sherry
Pour in the dry sherry, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the pan. This technique not only cleans the pan but integrates more intense flavors into your sauce. Let the sherry bubble away for 2 to 3 minutes, reducing its volume by about half and concentrating those rich, nuanced flavors.
Step 7: Stir in Cream and Finish Cooking
Add the heavy cream and return the chicken to the skillet. Let everything cook together gently for around 5 minutes, allowing the cream to thicken slightly and the chicken to become perfectly cooked through. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. The sauce will be decadently creamy with just the right balance of savory and sweet sherry undertones.
How to Serve Creamy Sherry Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few fresh thyme sprigs add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens up each bite of the creamy sauce. For an extra touch of elegance, a grating of Parmesan cheese over the top can add a lovely salty finish.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Sherry Chicken Recipe shines when served alongside buttery mashed potatoes or creamy polenta that soak up every bit of sauce. Alternatively, a bed of steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or garlic sautéed spinach can lend crunch and freshness to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating the chicken over a nest of wide egg noodles tossed with olive oil and herbs for a rustic yet sophisticated presentation. Or serve family-style in the skillet so everyone can help themselves to the creamy goodness, making the meal feel warm and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the chicken and creamy sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen after a day, just be sure to reheat gently to prevent the cream from separating.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if stored properly in freezer-safe containers. Freeze in individual portions for convenience. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain the sauce’s texture and taste.
Reheating
Warm the leftovers over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of cream or milk can help revive the sauce’s silky texture if it has thickened too much in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use another type of alcohol instead of sherry?
Absolutely. Dry white wine or Madeira wine can be good substitutes, though sherry offers a unique nuttiness that really stands out in this recipe. Avoid using sweet wines as they might overpower the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes. You can substitute the butter with olive oil and use coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream alternative. Keep in mind the flavor will differ slightly but remain delicious.
How thick should the sauce be when finished?
The sauce should be creamy and coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a little longer; if it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add more richness and stay juicy, but be sure to adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they’re cooked through without drying out.
What if I don’t have cremini mushrooms?
Button mushrooms or shiitake mushrooms are great alternatives. Each will contribute their own flavor nuances, so feel free to experiment with what’s available and enjoy the subtle variations.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Creamy Sherry Chicken Recipe enough—it’s a dish that never fails to impress with its comforting yet sophisticated flavors. The blend of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and that dreamy sherry cream sauce is truly irresistible. So why not give it a try sometime soon? Your taste buds will thank you, and you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner.
