This Chicken Diane is a classic and elegant dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. Tender chicken breasts are pan-seared, then coated in a rich and flavorful sauce made with mushrooms, shallots, garlic, and a touch of brandy. It’s a simple yet impressive recipe that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and Elegant: This dish is packed with rich and savory flavors, thanks to the combination of mushrooms, shallots, garlic, and brandy in the sauce.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare, even for beginner cooks.
Quick and Versatile: This recipe is ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. You can also serve it with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Chicken Diane:

Chicken breasts: Skinless and boneless, pounded to an even thickness for even cooking.
Salt and pepper: To taste.
Olive oil: For searing the chicken.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
Shallots: Finely chopped, for a mild onion flavor.
Garlic: Minced, for aromatic depth.
Mushrooms: Cremini or button mushrooms, sliced, for a savory and earthy flavor.
Brandy or cognac: Adds depth and complexity to the sauce.
Chicken broth: Low sodium, adds flavor to the sauce.
Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick to the sauce.
Heavy cream: Creates a rich and creamy sauce.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory depth of flavor.
Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish.
Lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the richness of the sauce.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Chicken Diane

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the shallots, garlic, and sliced mushrooms, and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the mushrooms are browned and the shallots are softened.

Step 3: Add the Brandy and Deglaze

Pour the brandy or cognac into the skillet. If desired, you can flambé the alcohol by carefully tilting the pan towards a flame. Alternatively, let the brandy simmer for a few minutes to reduce the alcohol content. Stir in the chicken broth and Dijon mustard, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 5: Return the Chicken and Serve

Place the cooked chicken breasts back in the skillet and coat them evenly with the sauce and mushrooms. Heat through for a few minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Pound the chicken: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness before seasoning and cooking.
Adjust the alcohol: If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute the brandy with an equal amount of apple juice or chicken broth.
Control the salt: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish, and adjust the seasoning as needed.

How to Serve Chicken Diane

Classic: Serve the Chicken Diane with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables.
Elegant: For a more elegant presentation, you can fan the chicken breasts on a plate and drizzle with the sauce and mushrooms.
Garnish: Garnish with additional fresh parsley or a lemon wedge for a pop of color and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?
While this recipe is specifically for chicken breasts, you can experiment with other types of poultry, such as boneless, skinless chicken thighs or turkey cutlets. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or thick slices of portobello mushrooms.

Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months.

How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper to the sauce while simmering.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Chicken Diane that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Enjoy!