Chicken Riesling

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, let me introduce you to my favorite Chicken Riesling. This recipe has been a go-to in our home for years, bringing smiles and satisfied bellies around the dinner table. It’s the perfect balance of creamy goodness and savory flavors, thanks to the delightful combination of chicken, mushrooms, and a luscious white grape juice cream sauce. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this meal always impresses!

This Chicken Riesling is not just delicious; it also pairs beautifully with buttered parmesan pasta for an irresistible dining experience. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, making it a fantastic option for those evenings when time is tight but you still want something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be on your table in just 40 minutes! It’s perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile: The flavors are adaptable, allowing you to swap ingredients based on what you have at home.
• Make Ahead: Prep some components in advance for an even quicker cooking time during the week!
• Deliciously Indulgent: The creamy sauce makes every bite feel like a treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Chicken Riesling are simple and wholesome. Each one adds its own charm to the dish, creating layers of flavor that blend beautifully together. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken and Sauce

• 5-6 strips bacon (cut into small pieces)
• 2 large chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt & pepper (to taste)
• Flour (for dredging)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 7 ounces cremini mushrooms (sliced)
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup white grape juice
• 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream

For the Buttered Parmesan Pasta

• 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some easy variations to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or even tofu instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add some greens: Toss in fresh spinach or kale before serving for a pop of color and extra nutrients.
• Change up the carbs: Use penne pasta or zoodles if you’re looking for a low-carb option!
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.

How to Make Chicken Riesling

Step 1: Prepare the Buttered Parmesan Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook your spaghetti al dente according to package directions. Timing is key here, so aim for it to finish around when your chicken is done cooking. Once it’s cooked, drain the pasta, return it to the pot, and toss immediately with 2 tablespoons of butter and 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese until well-coated. Keeping it covered will help maintain warmth until you’re ready to serve.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Next, let’s get that bacon crispy! Cut it into small pieces—I find kitchen shears work great for this task—and fry it in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate while leaving about 2-3 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet. This fat will add flavor to the chicken!

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

Cut your chicken breasts lengthwise into thinner pieces. Season each piece with garlic powder, salt, and pepper—just be careful with the salt since bacon already brings some saltiness. Coat them lightly in flour and shake off any excess before cooking.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Return your skillet to medium-high heat. Once it’s hot again, add your floured chicken pieces. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes until they’re golden brown but not fully cooked through yet. Transfer them to another plate while we prepare our sauce.

Step 5: Sauté Mushrooms

In that same skillet—let’s keep all those lovely flavors—add the butter along with sliced mushrooms and Italian seasoning. Cook these beauties for about 5-6 minutes until they release their moisture and turn golden brown. This step really enhances their flavor!

Step 6: Add Garlic

Now stir in minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant. Garlic adds such an amazing aroma and depth to our dish; you’re going to love this part!

Step 7: Deglaze with White Grape Juice

Pour in your white grape juice, scraping any delicious brown bits off the bottom of the pan—this is where all that flavor lives! Let it bubble away until reduced by half; this should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 8: Finish Up!

Finally, stir in your heavy cream followed by adding back both the cooked chicken and crispy bacon into that dreamy sauce. Let everything simmer together for about five more minutes until thickened slightly and ensure that chicken is cooked through completely. Spoon extra sauce over everything before serving!

Now dig in! This Chicken Riesling served over buttered parmesan pasta is bound to become one of your favorite dishes too! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Riesling

Making Chicken Riesling can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the best results!

• Use freshly grated parmesan cheese: Fresh cheese melts better and adds a creamier texture to your dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: When cooking chicken or mushrooms, make sure to give them enough space in the pan. This allows for even cooking and helps achieve that lovely golden sear.
• Taste as you go: Adjusting seasonings throughout the cooking process ensures that your dish is perfectly seasoned from start to finish. Remember, flavors can change as they meld together!
• Let the sauce simmer: Allowing the sauce to reduce properly thickens it and intensifies its flavors. Don’t rush this step; it’s worth the wait!
• Pair with a refreshing salad: A light side salad can balance out the richness of this creamy dish. Consider adding some citrus for a refreshing touch.

How to Serve Chicken Riesling

Presenting your Chicken Riesling beautifully can turn a simple dinner into a memorable dining experience. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley not only adds color but also freshness to each bite.
• Lemon zest: A bit of lemon zest on top brings brightness and enhances the flavors of the dish without overpowering them.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies like asparagus or carrots roasted with olive oil and herbs make for a colorful and nutritious side that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Garlic bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate, making every bite enjoyable.
• Simple mixed greens salad: A light salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Chicken Riesling.
• Steamed broccoli or green beans: These vibrant greens add color to your plate while being quick to prepare and providing essential nutrients.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chicken Riesling will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on your table! Enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends for an unforgettable meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Riesling recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week. The flavors meld beautifully, making it even tastier the next day!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Chicken Riesling to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down entirely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals (1-2 minutes) until heated thoroughly, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Chicken Riesling that might help you as you prepare this delightful dish.

Can I substitute white grape juice for wine in Chicken Riesling?

Absolutely! In fact, using white grape juice creates a sweet and flavorful sauce without the alcohol. It’s a great alternative that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

How can I make Chicken Riesling healthier?

To lighten up this dish, consider using less butter and opting for a light cream or milk instead of heavy cream. You can also increase the veggie content by adding additional mushrooms or spinach.

What should I serve with Chicken Riesling?

This dish pairs wonderfully with buttered parmesan pasta, but you can also serve it over rice or alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Can I make Chicken Riesling ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook it ahead of time and store leftovers as mentioned above for quick meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chicken Riesling as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with comforting flavors and delightful aromas. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!