chicken henry recipe

Written ByEmma Smyth Updated on
chicken henry recipe
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The Best chicken henry recipe

I’ve been making this Chicken Henry recipe for years, and it’s one of those dishes that just never gets old. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but still feels special, which is exactly why it’s a staple in our house. My kids ask for it at least once a week, and honestly, I don’t blame them—it’s flavorful, easy to customize, and always turns out tender and juicy. The best part? It’s packed with protein and can be made lighter or more indulgent depending on what you’re in the mood for. What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it over rice, pasta, or even with roasted veggies, and it works every time. It’s also a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients if you’re feeding picky eaters—just toss in some finely chopped spinach or mushrooms into the sauce, and they won’t even notice. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so leftovers are never a problem. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just trying to get a healthy meal on the table fast, this one’s a winner.
Chicken Henry

Chicken Henry

4.6 from 1251 votes

A classic and flavorful chicken dish featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy mushroom and sherry sauce. This elegant yet easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup dry sherry (or substitute with chicken broth)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

👨‍🍳Directions

  1. 1 Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
  2. 2 Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. 3 In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp butter. Sauté the mushrooms and onion for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. 4 Pour in the sherry (or chicken broth) and deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly.
  5. 5 Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. 6 Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Cover and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors.
  7. 7 Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

🔧Equipment

  • Large skillet with lid
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Chef’s knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 145mg🧂Sodium: 650mg🌾Total Carbs: 8g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

Tips: For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. To add more depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine along with the sherry. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Chicken Henry Works

This chicken Henry recipe is one of those foolproof dishes that always delivers, no matter the occasion. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for family gatherings, with flavors that please both kids and adults. I love that it’s quick to prep, easy to scale up, and always leaves everyone asking for seconds—it’s a go-to for a reason.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Henry

1. What is Chicken Henry, and how is it different from other chicken dishes?

Chicken Henry is a classic American dish featuring sautéed or grilled chicken breasts topped with a rich, savory sauce made from ham, mushrooms, onions, and a creamy base (often including wine or sherry). Unlike simpler chicken dishes like grilled or baked chicken, Chicken Henry has a more complex flavor profile with a balance of salty ham, earthy mushrooms, and a slightly tangy sauce. It’s often served over rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.

2. Can I make Chicken Henry without alcohol?

Yes! While traditional recipes often include white wine or sherry, you can substitute it with chicken broth, apple juice, or even a splash of vinegar (like white wine vinegar) for acidity. For a non-alcoholic version, use ½ cup of chicken broth mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the tanginess of the wine. The dish will still be flavorful, just slightly less complex.

3. What’s the best way to cook the chicken for Chicken Henry?

For the best results, lightly pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch) to ensure even cooking. You can then: – Sauté: Cook in a skillet with butter or oil over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). – Grill: Grill over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side. – Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes. Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken tender, as it will continue to cook slightly when you add the sauce.

4. Can I prepare Chicken Henry ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the components ahead of time to save effort: – Chicken: Cook and refrigerate the chicken for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the sauce before serving. – Sauce: Make the sauce (without the chicken) up to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove, then add the cooked chicken to warm through. – Full dish: Assemble the entire dish, refrigerate, and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying. Note: The sauce may thicken when chilled, so you may need to thin it with a little broth or water when reheating.

5. What are the best side dishes to serve with Chicken Henry?

Chicken Henry pairs well with sides that complement its rich, savory flavors. Popular options include: – Rice or pasta: White rice, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce. – Vegetables: Steamed asparagus, green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple side salad to add freshness. – Bread: Crusty bread or dinner rolls to mop up the sauce. For a lighter meal, serve it with a side of roasted or grilled vegetables instead of carbs.

Hi, I’m Emma, the creator of Tasty Chicken Recipes, where I share my favorite chicken dishes and simple recipes anyone can make at home. I love experimenting with flavors and helping fellow food lovers cook delicious chicken meals with ease. 🍗✨

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