If you're looking to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's both elegant and easy to prepare, the Chicken Lombardy Recipe should be your next culinary adventure. This classic Italian-American dish combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, creamy sauce, sauteed mushrooms, and a delightful sprinkle of melted cheese. Whether it's for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will leave you and your guests impressed without spending hours in the kitchen. Here's how you can achieve that perfect Chicken Lombardy every time.
Ingredients for Chicken Lombardy
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons water
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 8 oz sliced mushrooms (cremini or white button)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup Marsala wine or dry white wine
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish
Steps to Prepare Chicken Lombardy
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Chicken: Place each chicken breast between plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness of about ¼ inch.
- Season: Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, place flour. In another, whisk the egg with 3 tablespoons of water to make an egg wash.
- Coat Chicken: Dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in the egg wash, and coat again in flour.
- Pan Sear: Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, cooking until golden brown on both sides (about 4-5 minutes per side). Transfer to a baking dish.
- Mushrooms: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and sauté mushrooms until browned and tender. Spread over the chicken in the baking dish.
- Make Sauce: Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet, then pour in chicken broth, wine, and cream. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly (about 4 minutes).
- Layer Cheese: Pour the sauce over the chicken and mushrooms. Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with parsley before serving.
🌟 Note: If the sauce isn't thickening, you can mix 1 tablespoon of flour with 2 tablespoons of cold water and add it to the sauce, stirring until it thickens.
Mastering this Chicken Lombardy recipe means you'll have a go-to meal that's flavorful yet simple. The key steps include properly pounding the chicken for uniform cooking, creating a savory sauce, and ensuring the cheese is perfectly melted. With minimal preparation, you get to enjoy a rich, savory dish that seems like it took hours to make. Whether served with pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables, Chicken Lombardy brings elegance to the table with minimal effort.
Can I use different types of cheese for Chicken Lombardy?
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Yes, while mozzarella or Swiss cheese is traditional, you can also use provolone, Gruyere, or even a mix of different cheeses for a unique flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese has good melting qualities for the perfect finish.
What if I don’t have Marsala wine?
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If Marsala wine isn’t available, you can substitute with dry sherry, Madeira, or even a dry white wine. The flavor will differ slightly but will still be delicious.
Can Chicken Lombardy be prepared in advance?
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Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to the point where it’s layered in the baking dish with mushrooms and sauce. Refrigerate until ready to bake. Remember to increase the baking time slightly if the dish is cold.
