Name: Julia Child’s Chicken and Mushroom Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 medium chicken breasts; 1½ tsp lemon juice; ¼ tsp salt; 1 pepper; 2 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp Green Onions; 8 oz mushrooms; ⅛ tsp salt; For Sauce:; ¼ cup chicken stock; ¼ cup port wine; 4 oz cream cheese; ½ cup evaporated milk; salt and pepper; 2 tbsp parsley; 1 cup broccoli

Indulge in the classic flavors of Julia Child's chicken and mushroom recipe, a delightful dish that marries tender chicken breasts with earthy mushrooms in a creamy sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home, bringing a touch of French elegance to your table.

Photos of Julia Child’s Chicken and Mushroom Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe may not be staples in your kitchen. Port wine adds a rich depth to the sauce and can be found in the wine section of most grocery stores. Evaporated milk is a shelf-stable dairy product that helps thicken the sauce without adding too much richness. Ensure to pick up cream cheese and fresh parsley to garnish the dish.

Ingredients For Julia Child's Chicken And Mushroom Recipe

Chicken breasts: Main protein of the dish, providing tender and juicy meat.

Lemon juice: Adds a zesty flavor to the chicken, enhancing its taste.

Salt: Essential seasoning that brings out the flavors of the ingredients.

Pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the dish.

Butter: Used for sautéing and adds a rich, creamy texture.

Green onions: Adds a mild, aromatic flavor to the dish.

Mushrooms: Provides an earthy flavor and meaty texture.

Chicken stock: Forms the base of the sauce, adding savory depth.

Port wine: Adds a rich, sweet flavor to the sauce.

Cream cheese: Creates a creamy texture for the sauce.

Evaporated milk: Thins the sauce slightly while adding creaminess.

Parsley: Fresh herb used for garnish, adding color and a fresh taste.

Broccoli: Adds a nutritious and crunchy element to the dish.

One reader, Aili Guardado says:

Julia Child's chicken and mushroom recipe is a delightful culinary experience. The chicken is tender and flavorful, and the creamy mushroom sauce is simply divine. The addition of broccoli adds a nice touch of freshness. A must-try for anyone who loves classic French cuisine!

Aili Guardado

Essential Techniques for Julia Child's Chicken and Mushroom Recipe

Yes.

How to sauté: Heat the butter in a heavy, oven-proof casserole until it is foaming. Stir in the minced shallots or green onion and sauté a moment without browning. Then stir in the mushrooms and sauté lightly for a minute or two without browning.

How to roll chicken in butter mixture: Quickly roll the chicken in the butter mixture to coat it evenly before laying a piece of buttered wax paper over them.

How to make sauce: Pour the stock and wine in the skillet with the mushrooms. Boil down quickly over high heat until the liquid has reduced to half. Add in the cream cheese, breaking it down with your wooden spoon. Cook over low heat until it turns into a thick cream. Gradually add in the evaporated milk, stirring through the cream cheese until thickened. Take off heat and taste for seasoning.

How To Make Julia Child’s Chicken and Mushroom

Recreate Julia Child’s chicken and mushroom dish complete with a creamy sauce that has a distinctly minty and milky flavor for 45 minutes.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Sauce:

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

1. Rub the chicken breasts with lemon juice and season lightly with salt and pepper.

1. Heat the butter in a heavy, oven-proof casserole, about 10 inches in diameter until it is foaming.

1. Stir in the minced shallots or green onion and saute a moment without browning.

1. Then stir in the mushrooms and sauté lightly for a minute or two without browning. Season with salt.

1. Quickly roll the chicken in the butter mixture and lay a piece of buttered wax paper over them. Cover the casserole and place in the hot oven.

1. After 8 to 10 minutes, flip the chicken and cook for another 8 minutes in the oven.

1. Alternatively, brown chicken fillets on each side until golden, then cover and place into a preheated oven to continue cooking for a further 8 minutes until cooked through.

1. Remove the chicken to a warm platter (leave mushrooms in the pot) and cover while making the sauce.

To make sauce:

1. Pour the stock and wine in the skillet with the mushrooms. Boil down quickly over high heat until liquid has reduced to half.

1. Add in the cream cheese, breaking it down with your wooden spoon.

1. Cook over low heat until it turns into a thick cream. Gradually add in the evaporated milk, stirring through the cream cheese until thickened.

1. Take off heat and taste for seasoning. Squeeze over a little extra lemon juice to taste. Add in the broccoli and pour the sauce over the chicken. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Nutrition

- Calories: 535.50kcal

- Fat: 34.51g

- Saturated Fat: 15.31g

- Trans Fat: 0.42g

- Monounsaturated Fat: 11.43g

- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.28g

- Carbohydrates: 11.52g

- Fiber: 2.05g

- Sugar: 7.13g

- Protein: 43.41g

- Cholesterol: 167.39mg

- Sodium: 877.51mg

- Calcium: 156.30mg

- Potassium: 875.59mg

- Iron: 2.31mg

- Vitamin A: 236.05µg

- Vitamin C: 49.03mg

Expert Technique Tip for Perfecting Julia Child's Recipe

When sautéing the mushrooms, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can cause the mushrooms to steam rather than brown, which will affect their flavor and texture. Cook them in batches if necessary to ensure they get a nice, even sauté.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Chicken and Mushroom Dish

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting to cook to streamline the process.

Use pre-cut vegetables: Purchase pre-cut mushrooms and broccoli to save chopping time.

Quick marinade: Marinate the chicken breasts with lemon juice and seasonings while preheating the oven.

One-pot cooking: Use an oven-proof casserole to cook everything in one pot, reducing cleanup time.

Simultaneous tasks: While the chicken is in the oven, start preparing the sauce to save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Julia Child’s Chicken and Mushroom Recipe

chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts have a similar texture and flavor profile, making them a suitable alternative.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and offers a slightly different mineral flavor.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor profile, which can add a unique twist.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier fat option and provides a different but pleasant flavor.
green onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a mild onion flavor that can complement the dish well.
mushrooms - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture when cooked and can absorb flavors well.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock provides a similar depth of flavor and is suitable for vegetarians.
port wine - Substitute with red wine: Red wine can offer a similar depth and richness to the sauce.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor, with less fat.
evaporated milk - Substitute with heavy cream: Heavy cream offers a richer and creamier texture, though it is higher in fat.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro provides a fresh, herbaceous flavor that can complement the dish.
broccoli - Substitute with cauliflower: Cauliflower has a similar texture and can be used in the same way as broccoli.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning Chicken and Mushroom Dish

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the chicken breasts sliced into elegant medallions, ensuring each piece is tender and juicy. This allows for a refined and delicate presentation.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with finely chopped parsley and a few sprigs of fresh herbs to add a touch of color and sophistication.
Create a base: Place a small mound of steamed broccoli at the center of the plate, forming a vibrant green base that contrasts beautifully with the chicken.
Layer the elements: Arrange the chicken medallions artfully atop the broccoli, slightly overlapping each piece to create a visually appealing stack.
Sauce presentation: Drizzle the creamy mushroom sauce over the chicken medallions, allowing it to cascade down the sides and pool around the base of the broccoli.
Highlight textures: Ensure the mushrooms are visible within the sauce, adding texture and visual interest to the dish.
Add a pop of color: Sprinkle a few finely diced green onions over the top for a burst of color and a hint of freshness.
Final touch: Finish with a light squeeze of lemon juice over the entire dish to enhance the flavors and add a subtle brightness.
Plate symmetry: Ensure all elements are symmetrically arranged on the plate, creating a balanced and harmonious presentation that is pleasing to the eye.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Julia Child's Recipe

Oven: Used to preheat and cook the chicken breasts to ensure they are cooked through.
Heavy, oven-proof casserole: A sturdy dish that can go from stovetop to oven, used for sautéing and baking the chicken and mushrooms.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients without scratching the casserole.
Knife: For mincing the green onions and slicing the mushrooms.
Cutting board: A safe surface for chopping the green onions and mushrooms.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the lemon juice, salt, and other seasonings accurately.
Measuring cups: For measuring the chicken stock, port wine, and evaporated milk.
Wax paper: Used to cover the chicken breasts while they bake, helping to keep them moist.
Platter: To hold the cooked chicken breasts while you prepare the sauce.
Saucepan: For reducing the stock and wine and making the sauce.
Whisk: To help blend the cream cheese and evaporated milk into a smooth sauce.
Serving dish: To present the finished chicken and mushroom dish with the sauce and broccoli.
Tongs: Useful for flipping the chicken breasts during cooking.
Spatula: For transferring the chicken breasts to the platter.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Chicken and Mushroom Leftovers

Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing or freezing.
Store leftover chicken and mushroom in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, place the cooled chicken and mushroom in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality and flavor.
When ready to reheat, thaw the chicken and mushroom in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or in a saucepan on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.
Note: The cream sauce may separate slightly upon reheating, but whisking or stirring gently should help restore its consistency.
If the sauce appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of chicken stock or milk to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Avoid freezing the broccoli, as it may become mushy and lose its texture when thawed and reheated. It's best to add freshly cooked broccoli when reheating the dish.

How To Reheat Leftover Chicken and Mushroom

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken and mushroom in an oven-safe dish, and cover it with aluminum foil. Heat in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbling. This method helps to retain the moisture in the dish and prevent the chicken from drying out.
Alternatively, you can reheat the leftovers in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a little bit of chicken stock or water to the pan to help loosen up the sauce and prevent it from sticking. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is simmering. This method allows you to quickly reheat the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed.
If you have a microwave, you can also use it to reheat the leftovers. Place the chicken and mushroom in a microwave-safe dish, and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is hot. Be sure to stir the dish halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
For a crispy texture, you can reheat the chicken in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), and place the leftover chicken in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the skin is crispy. This method works best if you have only a small amount of leftovers and want to quickly reheat them.
If you want to give the leftovers a new twist, try shredding the chicken and using it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas. You can also slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens for a quick and easy salad. The possibilities are endless!

Interesting Trivia About Julia Child's Chicken and Mushroom Recipe

A random fact about this recipe is that Julia Child was known for her meticulous attention to detail, and this chicken and mushroom dish exemplifies her approach by combining simple ingredients like chicken breasts, mushrooms, and cream cheese to create a rich and flavorful sauce.

Is This Chicken and Mushroom Recipe Budget-Friendly?

This chicken and mushroom recipe by Julia Child is moderately cost-effective. The main ingredients like chicken breasts, mushrooms, and broccoli are affordable and widely available. Specialty items like port wine and cream cheese might increase the cost slightly. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25 USD. Given the quality and flavor, the recipe scores a solid 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness.

Is Julia Child's Chicken and Mushroom Recipe Healthy?

The Julia Child's chicken and mushroom recipe, while undeniably delicious, does raise some concerns from a nutritional standpoint. The dish relies heavily on butter, cream cheese, and evaporated milk, which are all high in saturated fats. Consuming excessive amounts of saturated fats can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. Additionally, the recipe lacks a significant amount of vegetables, which are essential for providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter used in sautéing the shallots and mushrooms, or replace it with a healthier alternative like olive oil
Opt for low-fat cream cheese and evaporated milk to decrease the overall saturated fat content
Increase the quantity of broccoli or add other nutrient-dense vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or carrots to boost the fiber and vitamin content
Use whole grain pasta or rice as a side dish to provide additional fiber and complex carbohydrates
Replace the chicken breasts with skinless, boneless chicken thighs for a leaner protein option
Experiment with herbs and spices to add flavor without relying on excessive amounts of salt or fat

By making these adjustments, you can transform this classic recipe into a more balanced and nutritious meal that still retains its rich, comforting flavors. Remember, moderation is key, and even with healthier modifications, it's essential to be mindful of portion sizes when indulging in creamy, satisfying dishes like this one.

Editor's Opinion on Julia Child's Famous Recipe

This recipe is a delightful blend of classic French techniques and comforting flavors. The use of lemon juice and butter ensures the chicken remains moist and flavorful, while the mushrooms add an earthy depth. The sauce, enriched with cream cheese and port wine, offers a luxurious finish. However, incorporating broccoli directly into the sauce might soften its texture too much; consider steaming it separately for a crisp contrast. Overall, this dish promises a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Enhance Your Julia Child’s Chicken and Mushroom Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine a velvety bed of potatoes infused with the rich aroma of roasted garlic. This side-dish will complement the tender chicken breasts and creamy mushroom sauce perfectly, adding a comforting and hearty element to your meal.

Citrus-Infused Quinoa Salad: Brighten up your plate with a zesty quinoa salad that bursts with the flavors of citrus fruits. The tangy notes will cut through the richness of the cream cheese sauce, offering a refreshing contrast and a delightful crunch from fresh vegetables.

Honey-Glazed Carrots: Add a touch of sweetness to your meal with carrots glazed in a luscious honey sauce. The natural sweetness of the carrots will harmonize beautifully with the savory chicken and mushroom dish, creating a balanced and satisfying flavor profile.

Herb-Infused Wild Rice: Elevate your dining experience with a fragrant wild rice blend, infused with aromatic herbs. The nutty texture and earthy flavors of the wild rice will provide a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce, making each bite a culinary adventure.

Balsamic-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Transform humble Brussels sprouts into a gourmet delight with a tangy balsamic glaze. The caramelized exterior and tender interior of the sprouts will add a sophisticated touch to your meal, perfectly complementing the rich and creamy chicken and mushroom dish.

Similar Recipes to Julia Child's Chicken and Mushroom

Coq Au Vin: Dive into this classic French dish where tender chicken is braised with red wine, mushrooms, and pearl onions. It's a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to the heart of France.

Chicken Fricassee: Experience the creamy delight of chicken fricassee, a comforting stew made with chicken, mushrooms, and a luscious white sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner night.

Chicken Marsala: Savor the rich taste of chicken marsala, where chicken breasts are cooked in a marsala wine sauce with mushrooms. This Italian-American favorite is sure to impress.

Stuffed Chicken Breasts: Elevate your dinner with stuffed chicken breasts filled with a delightful mixture of spinach, cream cheese, and mushrooms. It's a gourmet meal that's surprisingly easy to make.

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in the creamy goodness of chicken alfredo, where tender chicken is combined with a rich alfredo sauce and served over fettuccine. A classic comfort food that never disappoints.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Julia Child's Dish

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The filling is enriched with herbs and a touch of lemon zest for a burst of freshness. Baked until golden and crispy, these bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering. Serve them warm, garnished with a sprinkle of parsley and a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of elegance.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to the heart of Italy with a classic bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with garlic and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella cheese. A splash of balsamic vinegar and a pinch of sea salt bring all the flavors together. This simple yet flavorful appetizer is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse that will leave your taste buds dancing. This decadent treat combines velvety dark chocolate with a hint of espresso for an extra layer of depth. The airy texture is achieved by folding in whipped cream and egg whites, creating a light yet intensely flavorful dessert. Garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder and a few fresh berries for a touch of elegance.

Lemon Tart: Brighten up your meal with a zesty lemon tart that balances tartness and sweetness perfectly. The crisp pastry crust provides a delightful contrast to the smooth, tangy lemon curd. A touch of vanilla and a hint of almond in the crust add complexity to the flavor profile. Top with a dusting of powdered sugar and a few candied lemon slices for a visually stunning finish.

Why trust this Julia Child’s Chicken and Mushroom Recipe:

This recipe is a classic from the legendary Julia Child, ensuring a tried-and-true method for delicious results. The combination of chicken breasts, mushrooms, and a rich cream cheese sauce creates a harmonious blend of flavors. The use of port wine and chicken stock adds depth, while the broccoli provides a fresh, nutritious touch. Trust in the timeless techniques and quality ingredients to deliver a meal that is both comforting and gourmet.

Share your thoughts on Julia Child's classic Chicken and Mushroom recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to enhance this timeless dish.

FAQ:

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

I usually check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should read 165 degrees F. If you don't have a thermometer, make sure the juices run clear when you cut into the thickest part of the chicken.

Can I use a different type of wine instead of port wine?

Absolutely! If you don't have port wine, you can use a dry white wine or even a sherry. It will change the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious.

What can I use as a substitute for evaporated milk?

You can use heavy cream or half-and-half as a substitute for evaporated milk. It will make the sauce richer and creamier.

Do I have to use wax paper over the chicken?

The wax paper helps keep the chicken moist while it cooks, but if you don't have any, you can use parchment paper or even aluminum foil.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just reheat them gently on the stove before serving. The broccoli should be added fresh to keep its texture.