Chicken Gloria

If you’re on the lookout for a delightful chicken recipe that brings comfort and elegance to your dinner table, look no further than Chicken Gloria. This dish features tender chicken breasts, sautéed mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, all topped with gooey Muenster cheese. It’s the kind of dish that will impress your guests while being simple enough for a weeknight meal. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this delicious meal.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Chicken Gloria stands out for a variety of reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile; you can serve it over rice, pasta, or even alongside a fresh salad. Second, the combination of flavors from the mushrooms, garlic, and thyme creates a rich profile that is both comforting and satisfying. Lastly, the melted Muenster cheese on top adds a luscious finish that is hard to resist. This dish not only fills your belly but also warms your heart, making it a perfect recipe to add to your repertoire.

Shopping List

• 2 large chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 6 oz white mushrooms, sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 6 to 8 slices of Muenster cheese

Recommended Tools

• Large skillet – for cooking the chicken and sauce.
• Meat mallet – to pound the chicken to an even thickness.
• Whisk – for mixing the sauce ingredients smoothly.
• Cutting board and knife – for prepping the vegetables.

From Start to Finish: Chicken Gloria

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Dredge in Flour

In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour with a teaspoon of salt and black pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are browned. Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and whole milk, stirring to combine. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Add this to the skillet, stirring until the sauce thickens.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cover the chicken with slices of Muenster cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Chicken Gloria hot, spooning the creamy sauce over the chicken. It pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or a simple green salad.

Seasonal Twists

• Spring: Add fresh asparagus or peas for a pop of color and freshness.
• Summer: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sunshine in every bite.
• Fall: Substitute the mushrooms with diced butternut squash for a seasonal twist.
• Winter: Add kale or spinach for a hearty and nutritious addition.

Flavor Logic

The beauty of Chicken Gloria lies in its rich flavor profile. The sautéed mushrooms provide an earthy depth, while the garlic adds a punch of zest. Thyme brings a warm, herbal note that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. The Muenster cheese not only enhances the flavor but also adds a satisfying creaminess that ties everything together. Together, these elements create a dish that is comforting, complex, and utterly delicious.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Chicken Gloria can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Simply prepare the dish up to the point of adding the cheese, then cover and refrigerate for up to two days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat in the skillet, add the cheese, and follow the final steps. For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to bring back the creaminess.

Questions People Ask

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide a richer flavor and remain juicy. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What can I serve with Chicken Gloria?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over creamy mushroom chicken pasta casserole, rice, or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute the whole milk with a dairy-free alternative, such as almond milk or oat milk. Use a dairy-free cheese for topping to keep the dish dairy-free as well.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply increase the amount of cornstarch in the slurry or let the sauce simmer a little longer to reduce it to your desired consistency.

Explore More

• Cheesy Alfredo Chicken Pasta Casserole
• Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

The Takeaway

Chicken Gloria is a delightful dish that marries simplicity with gourmet flair. Its creamy sauce, paired with tender chicken and flavorful mushrooms, makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the process of making it and savor every bite as you indulge in this culinary delight.

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