Chicken with Mushrooms in Sweet Wine Sauce

This delightful dish, known locally as 'Pollo ai Funghi in Vino Dolce' in Italy, celebrates the rich culinary traditions of the region. Tender chicken breast pieces are sautéed to golden perfection, then combined with succulent mushrooms and bathed in a luscious sweet red wine sauce, accented with fragrant thyme and allspice. The interplay of flavors creates a comforting and harmonious meal that carries a cultural significance, often enjoyed during family gatherings and festive occasions. Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy pilaf to soak up the aromatic sauce, bringing warmth and joy to the table.

Time to complete

Prep

15min

Cook

20min

Wait

0 minutes

Total

35min

Ingredients (Makes 4 portions)

Main Ingredients

  • 3 chicken breast fillets, cut into large pieces
  • 70 ml (1/4 cup) olive oil
  • 250 g (9 oz) fresh small white mushrooms, cut in half
  • 150 ml (5 fl oz) red sweet wine
  • 1 tsp sweet vinegar

Spices and Seasoning

  • 3 - 4 allspice grains, coarsely crushed
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground pepper, to taste

Finishing Touch

  • 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs, grated
Nutrition Information (per 100g)
  • Calories: 180
  • Fat: 9
  • Protein: 25
  • Carbohydrates: 6
  • Fiber: 1
Directions

Sauté the Chicken

  • 1. Heat a large skillet or wide shallow pot over high heat until very hot.
  • 2. Add half of the olive oil along with the chicken and allspice.
  • 3. Sauté the chicken for approximately 3 minutes until golden brown on one side, then turn to brown the other sides.

Cook the Mushrooms

  • 4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and add the remaining olive oil and mushrooms.
  • 5. Sauté over high heat for about 5-6 minutes until the mushrooms are golden and their moisture is absorbed.

Combine and Finish

  • 6. Stir in the breadcrumbs to absorb any remaining moisture and lightly brown.
  • 7. Return the chicken to the skillet, add the sweet wine and vinegar, and cook for 4-5 minutes until the sauce reduces and the chicken is cooked through.

Season and Serve

  • 8. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper, sprinkle with thyme, and remove from heat.

Serve

  • 9. Serve hot with mashed potatoes or white pilaf and a salad of your choice.
Cookix's Secrets

Alternative Ingredients

  • Use turkey breast instead of chicken for a leaner protein option.

Cooking Tips

  • Ensure the skillet is sufficiently hot before adding the chicken to achieve a good sear.

Flavor Enhancements

  • Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.

Healthier Options

  • Substitute the olive oil with a light cooking spray to reduce calories.

Seasonal Tweaks

  • Incorporate seasonal vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

  • For an extra touch, garnish with additional fresh thyme before serving.