7 net carbs

Balsamic Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Our Balsamic Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is a diabetic-friendly, low-carb delight that masterfully blends tangy balsamic with rich creaminess. Simple, yet gourmet!

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Balsamic Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Close-up of balsamic chicken with creamy mushroom sauce on a dark grey plate garnished with parsley and parmesan cheese.

Low-Carb Balsamic Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce [Keto]

Total Diabetes Wellness
Dive into a delightful meal that's both diabetic-friendly and bursting with flavor. Our Balsamic Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce brings together the tangy notes of balsamic with the richness of a creamy mushroom blend. Caramelized onions add a subtle sweetness, making this dish a perfect blend of savory elements. Not only is it low-carb and Keto-friendly, but it's also an uncomplicated way to enjoy a gourmet dining experience at home. Give it a try, and let this recipe become a favorite in your kitchen.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Lunch and Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Net Carbs 7 g
*Net carbs are per serving

Ingredients
 

  • 5 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 4 chicken breasts, (about 1.5 pounds)
  • salt and black pepper
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 ounces brown mushrooms, sliced
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme

Garnish

  • fresh parsley
  • parmesan cheese, shredded

Instructions
 

  • In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the onions, and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes.
    Close of view of a skillet with thinly sliced onions cooking to make caramelized onions.
  • In a second skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear on each side, about 3-4 minutes, or until golden. Remove the chicken to a plate (the chicken will not be fully cooked).
    Top view of searing chicken breasts in a skillet.
  • Add the chicken broth to the skillet. Scrape the bottom of the pan with a spatula to loosen any bits of chicken. Let broth simmer for 2-3 minutes.
    Top view of deglazing a skillet with chicken broth.
  • Reduce the heat to low. Add the balsamic vinegar, heavy cream, mushrooms, and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
    Top view of creamy mushroom sauce cooking in a skillet.
  • Return the chicken to the skillet and continue to simmer until the chicken is fully cooked (instant-read thermometer reads 165F/75C).
    Close-up side view of balsamic chicken breasts cooking in a creamy mushroom sauce.
  • Stir the caramelized onions into the sauce.
    Close-up side view of chicken breasts cooking in a skillet and adding in caramelized onions.
  • Serve with the sauce spooned over the chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
    Close-up view of low-carb balsamic chicken with creamy mushroom sauce plated and being garnished with shredded parmesan cheese.

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Nutrition

 

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Equipment

Keywords Chicken and Mushroom, Creamy Chicken, Keto Balsamic Chicken, Keto Chicken Dinner, Low-Carb Balsamic Chicken, Low-Carb Chicken and Mushroom
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Photos of Low-Carb Balsamic Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Notes

Variations

  • Try this recipe with chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. You can also use other cuts of meat, such as pork chops or even steak.
  • You can add additional vegetables to this recipe as desired – chopped asparagus, chopped broccoli, or baby spinach are all delicious in the balsamic sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this low-carb low-carb balsamic chicken with creamy mushroom sauce recipe Keto?

Yes! One serving has 7 grams of net carbs, making this recipe a good choice for anyone following a Keto diet.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, our balsamic chicken with creamy mushroom sauce recipe is gluten-free!

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

  • Make-ahead: This recipe can be cooked ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve. You can also shorten the cooking time by caramelizing the onions beforehand and storing them in the refrigerator until ready to use. 
  • Storing leftovers: Store leftovers in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freezing instructions: To freeze, store in an air-tight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
  • To reheat: Reheat balsamic chicken with creamy mushroom sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave on low heat. You may need to add a little extra cream or broth to thin out the sauce.

Additional Details

Embarking on a low-carb culinary adventure often raises a concern: will taste be compromised? With our balsamic chicken with creamy mushroom sauce, that worry is put to rest. Rooted deeply in gourmet traditions and tweaked for the health-conscious, this recipe serves as an emblem of how flavor and health can walk hand in hand.

The core ingredient, balsamic vinegar, hails from the Italian regions of Modena and Reggio Emilia. Its rich, slightly sweet profile has won hearts globally, making it a pantry staple in many households. When this vinegar pairs with a creamy mushroom sauce, you’re served with a dish that’s both a nod to tradition and a modern masterpiece.

The Ingredients: Unveiling the Depths

  • Balsamic Vinegar: Beyond its tantalizing tang, balsamic vinegar is a friend to those monitoring their blood sugar, potentially aiding in its control—a crucial point for our diabetic readers.
  • Mushrooms: These earthy delights are nutrient powerhouses. They offer a dose of vitamin D, antioxidants, and a taste that elevates any dish.
  • Heavy Cream: A touch of indulgence can often be a treat, especially when moderated. In this recipe, heavy cream provides a velvety backdrop, aligning with the low-carb theme.
  • Onions: These humble bulbs are a culinary marvel, enhancing dishes with a unique sweetness and depth, not to mention their antioxidant richness.

Perfecting the Art of Caramelizing Onions

Caramelizing onions is an art. A process of patiently drawing out the sugars, it gifts the dish with a contrast to the balsamic’s acidity.

Let’s delve into some tips, tricks, and deeper insights to master this technique:

  • Choosing Your Onions: Yellow or Spanish onions are typically preferred for caramelizing due to their natural sweetness. However, red onions or white onions can also be used, each offering a slightly different flavor profile.
  • Slicing Consistency is Key: Thin, uniform slices ensure even caramelization. Aim for slices about 1/8-inch thick. Avoid dicing, as smaller pieces can burn easily.
  • The Right Pan: A thick-bottomed skillet or sauté pan works best. It distributes heat evenly, preventing hotspots that can cause uneven caramelization or burning.
  • Low and Slow: Patience is the name of the game. Cook the onions over low to medium-low heat. High heat might brown the onions quickly, but it won’t draw out their natural sugars, which is crucial for that deep caramelized flavor.
  • Stirring and Watching: While it’s a slow process, don’t neglect your onions. Regular stirring prevents sticking and ensures an even, golden-brown hue.
  • A Pinch of Salt: Adding a little salt not only seasons the onions but also helps to draw out moisture, aiding the caramelization process.
  • Deglazing: If you notice bits sticking to the pan, add a small amount of water, broth, or even wine. This not only prevents burning but also adds a layer of flavor.

Preparation Tips for Culinary Success

  • Chicken Selection: Organic, fresh chicken breasts are your best bet. They’re inherently flavorful and retain moisture better.
  • Mushroom Choices: While the recipe lists brown mushrooms, don’t shy away from shiitake or portobello. They bring a unique, woody flavor to the table.
  • Perfect Deglazing: Embrace the deglazing process. Those bits at the pan’s base? They’re flavor bombs, waiting to enrich your sauce.

Balsamic Chicken Variations

  • Herb Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or tarragon for a fragrant twist.
  • Cheese Bliss: Swap out parmesan with crumbled goat cheese or feta for a tangy kick.
  • Spice Route: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a gentle heat, enhancing the dish’s complexity.

What to Serve with Balsamic Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

  • Greens Galore: A crisp, green salad with avocado slices and cherry tomatoes, dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon zest.
  • Veggie Medley: Steamed asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts with a hint of garlic and lemon butter.
  • Alternative Proteins: Consider pairing the creamy mushroom sauce with grilled tofu steaks or pan-seared fish for a change.

Championing Health: Benefits for People with Diabetes

Managing diabetes requires careful attention to diet, particularly in terms of carbohydrate intake. This balsamic chicken with creamy mushroom sauce offers several advantages for those keeping a watchful eye on their blood sugar:

  • Low-Carbohydrate Content: With a primary focus on proteins and healthy fats, this dish minimizes carbohydrate intake, aligning with many diabetic dietary recommendations.
  • Balsamic Vinegar and Blood Sugar: Some studies suggest that the acetic acid in balsamic vinegar can improve the sensitivity of insulin receptors, potentially aiding in stabilizing post-meal blood sugar spikes. However, it’s always essential to use it in moderation and monitor its effects.
  • Balanced Meal: The combination of lean protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the cream helps to provide a steady energy release, rather than causing rapid blood sugar fluctuations.
  • Rich in Nutrients: Ingredients like mushrooms offer essential nutrients, including vitamin D and antioxidants, beneficial for overall health and potentially supporting better glycemic control.

Navigating the culinary world, especially with dietary restrictions, can sometimes feel like treading a tightrope. With our balsamic chicken with creamy mushroom sauce, you’re assured stability, flavor, and health in every bite. This recipe is more than a meal; it’s an experience, a testament that gourmet and health can indeed share a plate. Dive in, explore, and let this dish find its rightful place in your culinary heart.

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Low-carb balsamic chicken with creamy mushroom sauce on a grey plate garnished with parsley, ready to eat.

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