Chicken Madeira with Mushrooms and Asparagus Recipe

If you are craving a dish that feels both elegant and comforting, look no further than this Chicken Madeira with Mushrooms and Asparagus Recipe. This classic recipe brings together tender chicken breasts bathed in a rich Madeira wine sauce, complemented by earthy mushrooms and crisp-tender asparagus. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress at any dinner table, whether it’s a casual family meal or a special occasion. The creamy melted mozzarella that blankets the dish adds a luscious finishing touch that pulls everything together beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients create a sensational meal in this Chicken Madeira with Mushrooms and Asparagus Recipe. Each item plays an important role in building layers of flavor, from the savory garlic and mushrooms to the bright freshness of asparagus and the deep richness of Madeira wine.

• 12 spears thin asparagus (trimmed & cut into thirds): Provides a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich sauce.
• 2 large chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise): The star protein, tenderized and ready to soak up delicious flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle warmth and depth to the chicken seasoning.
• Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps achieve a golden sear on the chicken.
• 3 tablespoons butter (divided): Adds richness to the skillet and sauce.
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms (sliced): Earthy and meaty, they boost the umami factor.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic brings aromatic sweetness and zest.
• 1 cup Madeira wine: The distinctive star of the sauce, lending a subtle sweetness and complexity.
• 1 cup beef broth: Adds depth and body to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon cold water: Used to thicken the sauce to a perfect consistency.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella: Melts into a creamy finish that binds all the components.

How to Make Chicken Madeira with Mushrooms and Asparagus Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Asparagus

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and positioning the rack in the top third. Trim the woody ends off the asparagus and cut the spears into thirds. Boil a pot of water, and once boiling, cook the asparagus for just 2-3 minutes. This quick blanch keeps them tender-crisp and vibrant green. Rinse under cool water to stop the cooking, then drain and set them aside for later.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

While the asparagus is cooling, take your chicken breasts and slice each in half lengthwise for thinner pieces that cook evenly. Generously season them with garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning forms the flavorful base for the whole dish.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering hot, place the chicken in the pan and cook each side for about 5 to 6 minutes until beautifully golden brown. The chicken might not be completely cooked through here, but it will finish in the oven. Set the seared chicken aside on a plate.

Step 4: Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter along with sliced cremini mushrooms and minced garlic. Sauté everything for about 5 minutes until the mushrooms soften and release their juices, and the garlic becomes fragrant. This step builds the sauce’s rich, savory base.

Step 5: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the Madeira wine and beef broth, using a spatula to scrape up any tasty brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let this mixture bubble away for 5 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to meld into a luscious sauce.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

Create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water. Pour this into your skillet and continue simmering for another 5 minutes. The sauce will thicken nicely and form a silky coating for the chicken and vegetables, though it will thicken a bit more when baked.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients for Baking

Turn off the heat and nestle the chicken pieces back into the skillet, spooning mushrooms over each one. Arrange the blanched asparagus around and on top of the chicken. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, concentrating it on the chicken but also letting it scatter over the vegetables for added gooey goodness.

Step 8: Bake and Broil the Dish

Place the skillet in your preheated oven and bake for 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. For an extra touch of golden perfection, broil the dish for 1 to 2 minutes—just watch it closely so it doesn’t burn.

Step 9: Final Seasoning and Serve

Once out of the oven, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve your Chicken Madeira with Mushrooms and Asparagus Recipe immediately while everything is wonderfully hot and gooey.

How to Serve Chicken Madeira with Mushrooms and Asparagus Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or thyme leaves scattered on top add a dash of color and an herbal brightness that complements the richness of the sauce. A light sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan can elevate the cheesy aspect even further. These small touches really bring your dish to life visually and flavor-wise.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Madeira with Mushrooms and Asparagus Recipe pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic mashed cauliflower for those watching carbs. Alternatively, a simple bed of fluffy rice or buttered egg noodles can soak up any extra sauce and complete your meal with welcoming comfort.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this dish family-style, straight from the oven in the skillet for a cozy and inviting presentation. For a more elegant touch, plate each serving individually with the asparagus neatly arranged and a drizzle of the Madeira sauce around the edges. Adding edible flowers or microgreens offers a fun, gourmet flair that will impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The chicken and vegetables will keep well for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the sauce and solids together to maintain moisture and flavor balance.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but to preserve texture, it’s best to freeze before adding the mozzarella cheese. Place the chicken, mushrooms, and asparagus in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, add fresh cheese on top for the best result.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 325°F covered with foil to maintain moisture, or microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally. Add mozzarella cheese again if desired and broil briefly to restore that fresh-from-the-oven melted cheese appeal.

FAQs

What can I substitute for Madeira wine in this recipe?

If you don’t have Madeira wine on hand, dry sherry or Marsala wine can be excellent substitutes. For a non-alcoholic option, a mix of grape juice with a splash of vinegar or broth can mimic some of the flavor complexity.

Can I use thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and often stay juicier than breasts. Adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F to be safe and juicy. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part and ensure there is no pink inside and the juices run clear.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just make sure to use cornstarch (which is naturally gluten-free) to thicken the sauce and confirm your beef broth doesn’t contain gluten. Most other ingredients should already be safe.

What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the chicken?

Cover the dish with foil and reheat slowly in the oven to retain moisture. Adding a small splash of beef broth or water before reheating can help keep the chicken tender and juicy.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Madeira with Mushrooms and Asparagus Recipe has everything you want from a home-cooked meal: rich, comforting flavors, a touch of elegance, and fresh, vibrant vegetables. It’s one of those dishes that feels special but is surprisingly easy to pull together. Trust me, once you make it, it might just become one of your favorite go-to recipes to impress family and friends. Give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite!

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