Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Ragout is a comforting dish steeped in rich, velvety flavors. Tender strips of chicken cooked with earthy mushrooms and a luscious coconut milk-based sauce make this recipe a standout for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This detailed guide will walk you through creating the perfect ragout.
1. Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Ragout
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 ¼ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips, then halved; about two filets)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, divided
- ¼ teaspoon kosher or sea salt, divided
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, divided
For the Ragout
- 1 cup baby bella mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
- 6 whole fresh thyme sprigs
- ¼ cup white onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ cup dry white wine (or ½ cup vegetable broth mixed with 1 tablespoon vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons pure butter, softened
- 14-ounce can full-fat coconut milk
- Small pinch of nutmeg (if using fresh, grate only twice)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken strips with half the salt and pepper.
Heat ½ tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms
Add the remaining ½ tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the sliced baby bella mushrooms and sauté for 4-5 minutes until browned and tender.
Add the thyme sprigs to the skillet and stir for an additional minute to infuse flavor.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Deglaze the pan by pouring in the dry white wine (or the vegetable broth/vinegar mixture). Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to enhance the flavor. Let the liquid simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter and flour together to form a smooth paste (beurre manié). This will thicken the sauce without clumping.
Gradually whisk the butter-flour mixture into the skillet. Stir continuously to avoid lumps and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
Step 5: Add Coconut Milk and Nutmeg
Pour the coconut milk into the skillet, stirring to combine. Add the remaining salt, pepper, and a small pinch of freshly grated nutmeg. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes.
Step 6: Finish the Dish
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, ensuring the pieces are submerged in the sauce. Cover and simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Remove the thyme sprigs before serving.
2. Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Ragout
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh thyme, garlic, and mushrooms elevate the flavor of the dish. Avoid dried thyme for this recipe, as it lacks the same aromatic quality.
Sear the Chicken Properly
Searing the chicken creates a caramelized crust that adds depth to the dish. Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to lock in the juices.
Clean and Slice Mushrooms Correctly
Wipe mushrooms with a damp cloth instead of rinsing them under water. Excess moisture can make them soggy during cooking. Slice them evenly for consistent texture.
Deglaze the Pan Thoroughly
Deglazing the skillet with wine or broth releases flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. This step enriches the sauce with a deep, savory taste.
Incorporate Beurre Manié Gradually
Adding the butter-flour mixture slowly ensures a smooth and creamy sauce. Whisk continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
Don’t Overdo the Nutmeg
A small pinch of nutmeg balances the richness of the coconut milk. Too much can overpower the dish, so use it sparingly.
3. Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Ragout pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
Buttery Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice with a hint of butter and herbs complements the dish’s flavors.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to mop up every bit of the ragout.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, asparagus, or green beans provide a fresh and vibrant contrast.
Pasta: Toss the ragout with wide noodles like pappardelle for an indulgent twist.
4. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing
Allow the ragout to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Stovetop Method: Reheat the ragout in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickened in the fridge. Stir until warmed through.
Microwave Method: Place a portion of the ragout in a microwave-safe dish. Cover and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Ragout is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich coconut milk sauce. With these instructions and tips in the article, I hope that you’ll have everything you need to make this hearty dish time and time again.
