Somerset Chicken: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Somerset Chicken, a dish that whispers of cozy evenings and the comforting aroma of cider simmering on the stove, is about to become your new weeknight favorite. Imagine tender chicken, bathed in a creamy, tangy sauce infused with the sweet-tart essence of Somerset cider, studded with crisp bacon and earthy mushrooms. Sounds divine, doesn’t it?

This delightful dish hails from Somerset, a county in South West England renowned for its apple orchards and, of course, its exceptional cider. While the exact origins are shrouded in a bit of culinary mystery, it’s believed that Somerset Chicken evolved from traditional farmhouse cooking, where resourceful cooks utilized readily available ingredients to create hearty and flavorful meals. Cider, a staple in the region, naturally found its way into countless recipes, adding a unique depth and complexity.

What makes this recipe so beloved? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The chicken is incredibly moist and tender, the sauce is rich and creamy with a delightful tang, and the bacon and mushrooms add a savory, umami depth. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, you can whip up this comforting dish in under an hour. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Get ready to experience a taste of Somerset in every bite!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• For the Somerset Sauce:
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup dry sherry (or dry white wine)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Optional Additions:
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for topping
• Cooked rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes, for serving
• Steamed green beans or asparagus, for serving

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Season them generously on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Make sure each breast is evenly coated with the spices.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook them in batches. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and have a nice crust. The internal temperature doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, as they will finish cooking in the sauce.
3. Remove and Set Aside: Once the chicken is seared, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm.

Making the Somerset Sauce:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet you used to sear the chicken (don’t wipe it out – those browned bits add flavor!), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Add Garlic and Mushrooms: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are softened and have released their moisture, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally.
3. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the dry sherry (or dry white wine) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This is called deglazing, and it adds a ton of flavor to the sauce. Let the sherry simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to evaporate slightly.
4. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and thicken.
5. Stir in Cream and Thyme: Stir in the heavy cream and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the chicken is already seasoned, so start with a small amount of salt and adjust as needed.

Combining Chicken and Sauce:

1. Return Chicken to the Sauce: Gently place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet with the sauce. Make sure the chicken is mostly submerged in the sauce.
2. Simmer and Cook Through: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
3. Check for Doneness: To check if the chicken is done without a thermometer, you can cut into the thickest part of one of the breasts. The juices should run clear, and the meat should be opaque.

Serving the Somerset Chicken:

1. Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a serving platter or individual plates. Spoon the Somerset sauce generously over the chicken. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
2. Optional Toppings: If desired, sprinkle the chicken with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
3. Serving Suggestions: Serve the Somerset chicken hot with cooked rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. Steamed green beans or asparagus make a great side dish.

Tips and Variations:

• Wine Choice: If you don’t have dry sherry, a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well as a substitute.
• Mushroom Variety: Feel free to use different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms, for a more complex flavor.
• Spice Level: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
• Cream Cheese Variation: For an even richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese at the end.
• Make Ahead: The Somerset sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it before adding the chicken.
• Slow Cooker Option: You can adapt this recipe for the slow cooker. Sear the chicken as directed, then transfer it to the slow cooker. Prepare the sauce in a skillet, then pour it over the chicken. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours.
• Freezing Instructions: Cooked Somerset chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving
• Protein: 40-50 grams
• Fat: 20-30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams

Why This Recipe Works:

This Somerset chicken recipe is a winner because it combines simple ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying dish. The searing of the chicken creates a beautiful crust and locks in moisture, while the creamy mushroom sauce adds richness and depth. The Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce provide a tangy and savory element that complements the chicken perfectly. It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily customized to your liking, and it’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Troubleshooting:

• Sauce Too Thin: If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it for a longer period of time, allowing it to reduce. Alternatively, you can whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) at the end of cooking.
• Sauce Too Thick: If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a little more chicken broth or heavy cream.
• Chicken Overcooked: Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the correct internal temperature.
• Mushrooms Undercooked: Make sure to cook the mushrooms until they are softened and have released their moisture. This will prevent them from being rubbery.

Serving Suggestions for Special Occasions:

Somerset chicken is elegant enough to serve for special occasions. Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation:

• Elegant Plating: Arrange the chicken breasts on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or risotto. Drizzle the sauce artfully over the chicken and garnish with fresh herbs.
• Wine Pairing: Serve with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
• Appetizers: Start with a light appetizer like a Caprese salad or a cheese and charcuterie board.
• Dessert: Finish with a decadent dessert like chocolate lava cake or crème brûlée.

Kid-Friendly Adaptations:

Somerset chicken can be easily

Conclusion:

This Somerset Chicken recipe isn’t just another chicken dish; it’s a culinary journey to the heart of England, right in your own kitchen! The combination of the creamy cider sauce, the savory chicken, and the subtle sweetness of the apples creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests with a sophisticated yet approachable meal.

But why is it a must-try? Because it’s more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. The aroma that fills your kitchen as the chicken simmers in the cider sauce is simply divine. The tender, juicy chicken, infused with the flavors of apple and thyme, is a delight to eat. And the creamy sauce, oh, the sauce! It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for spooning over everything on your plate. It’s comfort food elevated to an art form.

Beyond its incredible flavor, this Somerset Chicken recipe is also incredibly versatile. Looking for serving suggestions? I highly recommend serving it with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious sauce. Roasted root vegetables, like carrots and parsnips, also make a wonderful accompaniment, adding a touch of sweetness and earthiness to the meal. For a lighter option, try serving it with a simple green salad and some crusty bread for dipping.

And don’t be afraid to experiment with variations! If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of apple brandy to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor. You could also substitute the chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a richer, more flavorful dish. For a vegetarian twist, try using firm tofu or halloumi cheese instead of chicken. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Another great variation is to add some mushrooms to the pan while the chicken is browning. Button mushrooms, cremini mushrooms, or even wild mushrooms would all work beautifully, adding a depth of earthy flavor to the dish. You could also add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the sauce for a bit of crunch.

I’m confident that you’ll love this Somerset Chicken recipe as much as I do. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, perfect for any occasion. It’s also a great way to showcase the flavors of autumn, with its apples and cider.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed. And once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your photos and comments on social media using #SomersetChickenRecipe. Let me know what variations you tried and what you thought of the dish. I’m always looking for new ways to improve and refine my recipes, and your feedback is invaluable.

I can’t wait to see what culinary creations you come up with! Happy cooking!