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CHICKEN MADEIRA

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Elevate Your Dinner with Chicken Madeira

Introduction:

Looking for a dish that combines elegance with simplicity, flavor with finesse? Look no further than Chicken Madeira. This classic recipe brings together tender chicken, crisp asparagus, and melty mozzarella cheese in a luscious wine sauce. Originating from Italian American cuisine, Chicken Madeira is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that is sure to impress your dinner guests or elevate your family meal.

The Essence of Chicken Madeira:

At the heart of Chicken Madeira lies its irresistible combination of ingredients:

  • Chicken Breast: Tender and juicy, chicken breast serves as the protein base for our dish.
  • Asparagus: Crisp and vibrant, asparagus adds a pop of color and freshness to the ensemble.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Creamy and indulgent, mozzarella cheese lends a rich, melty layer of goodness to the dish.
  • Madeira Wine: With its sweet and nutty flavor profile, Madeira wine infuses the sauce with depth and complexity.
  • Cremini Mushrooms: Earthy and flavorful, cremini mushrooms enhance the dish with their savory notes.
  • Garlic: Fragrant and aromatic, garlic adds a punch of flavor to the sauce.
  • Butter: Rich and indulgent, butter adds a luxurious texture to the sauce.

Now, let’s embark on a culinary adventure and prepare this exquisite dish step by step.

The Recipe:

Step 1: Searing the Chicken

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat.
  4. Sear the chicken breasts until browned on both sides, then transfer them to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Step 2: Sauteing the Vegetables

  1. In the same skillet, add more olive oil and melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Saute sliced cremini mushrooms until golden brown, then add trimmed asparagus and cook until crisp-tender.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Transfer the vegetables to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Making the Sauce

  1. Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour Madeira wine into the skillet.
  2. Gently boil the wine until reduced by half, approximately 5 minutes.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together low-sodium beef broth and cornstarch.
  4. Whisk the beef broth mixture into the reduced Madeira wine and cook until slightly thickened, whisking constantly.
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Step 4: Assembling and Baking

  1. Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet with the sauce.
  2. Spoon the sauteed mushrooms and asparagus over and around the chicken.
  3. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 4-6 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serving and Garnishing

  1. Carefully remove the skillet from the oven, using an oven mitt to protect your hands from the hot handle.
  2. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the Chicken Madeira for a final touch of freshness and color.

Tips for Success:

  • Choosing Madeira Wine: Opt for a medium dry Madeira wine to complement the savory elements of the dish. If unavailable, marsala, dry sherry, or dry port make suitable substitutes.
  • Handling Asparagus: While blanching asparagus is an option, sauteing it with the mushrooms simplifies the process and preserves its vibrant color and crunchiness.
  • Checking Chicken Doneness: Ensure the chicken is cooked through by using an instant-read meat thermometer. It should register 165 degrees Fahrenheit internally.
  • Selecting Mozzarella Cheese: Low-moisture mozzarella is recommended for optimal melting and texture. Avoid fresh mozzarella, which contains too much moisture for this recipe.

Nutritional Information:

  • Calories: 427 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Cholesterol: 109 mg
  • Sodium: 472 mg
  • Potassium: 1165 mg
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Vitamin A: 1340 IU
  • Vitamin C: 10 mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I prepare Chicken Madeira in advance?

  • While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before baking to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

2. Are there any vegetarian alternatives to Chicken Madeira?

  • Yes, you can substitute tofu or seitan for the chicken to create a vegetarian version of this dish.

3. Can I use different vegetables in Chicken Madeira?

  • Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli to customize the dish to your taste.

4. How long will leftovers of Chicken Madeira last?

  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
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