Leek and Mushroom Chicken Skillet

 Here’s a flavorful recipe for Leek and Mushroom Chicken Skillet, where tender chicken is cooked in a savory, creamy sauce with leeks and mushrooms. This one-pan dish is perfect for a comforting dinner.

---

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tsp dried thyme or fresh thyme (optional)

For the Sauce

1 tbsp butter

1 leek, cleaned and sliced thinly (white and light green parts)

8 oz (about 225g) mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms work well)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup white wine (optional, or use chicken broth)

1 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional for extra flavor)

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

---

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and thyme (if using).

Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

2. Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

Add the sliced leeks and cook for 3-4 minutes until they soften.

Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Pour in the white wine (if using) and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.

Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard (if using). Stir to combine, and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for 5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.

3. Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top.

Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer together for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb some of the sauce flavors.

Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

4. Serve

Serve the chicken with a generous portion of the leek and mushroom sauce on top.

Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and freshness.

This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green vegetable like spinach or asparagus.

---

Tips

If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

You can also add some white beans or spinach to the sauce for extra texture and flavor.

Make sure to clean the leeks thoroughly to remove any dirt trapped between the layers.

Enjoy your Leek and Mushroom Chicken Skillet, a creamy, savory dish that’s rich in flavor and perfect for a cozy meal!