Romano Chicken Supreme: A Taste of Unexpected Delight

There’s a unique kind of magic that happens when a recipe, stumbled upon by chance, transforms from a magazine clipping into a beloved staple. I vividly recall the day I first encountered Romano Chicken Supreme, a gem unearthed from the October 2007 issue of Taste of Home. Skeptical but hopeful, I dove in, and the resulting dish was so profoundly satisfying, so elegantly simple yet bursting with nuanced flavor, that it immediately secured its place in my regular culinary rotation. It’s a testament to the power of unexpected discoveries, proving that sometimes, the best meals are the ones we least anticipate.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: One 13x9x2 inch baking dish
• Dietary Type: Standard

Ingredients

This recipe, while appearing deceptively simple, relies on the quality and interplay of its components to achieve its “supreme” status.

• 6 (5 ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 pound fresh mushrooms, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 1 cup soft breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup grated Romano cheese

Equipment Needed

To bring this Romano Chicken Supreme to life, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

• A large skillet
• A 13-inch x 9-inch x 2-inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A knife and cutting board
• An oven

Instructions

The beauty of Romano Chicken Supreme lies in its straightforward assembly and relatively quick cooking time, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner that feels special.

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large skillet, coat it with cooking spray and brown the chicken breast halves on both sides over medium heat. This initial searing locks in moisture and begins building flavor. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a 13-inch x 9-inch x 2-inch baking dish that has also been coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle the chicken evenly with 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
2. Sauté the Mushroom Mixture: Using the same skillet you used for the chicken (no need to wash it – those browned bits are flavor!), sauté the chopped fresh mushrooms. Add the 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Stir and cook until the mushrooms have softened and released some of their moisture.
3. Build the Sauce: Now, it’s time to create the flavorful sauce that will generously coat the chicken. Add the 3 tablespoons of butter to the skillet with the mushroom mixture. Once the butter has melted, stir in the 1/2 cup of reduced-sodium chicken broth and the 2 tablespoons of orange juice.
4. Simmer and Reduce: Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Simmer the sauce, uncovered, for 2 to 3 minutes, or until it has heated through and slightly thickened. This brief simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Assemble and Bake: Spoon the hot mushroom mixture evenly over the salted chicken breasts in the baking dish. This ensures each piece of chicken is nestled in a flavorful embrace.
6. Add the Topping: In a separate small bowl, gently combine the 1 cup of soft breadcrumbs and the 1/3 cup of grated Romano cheese. Sprinkle this breadcrumb and cheese mixture evenly over the mushroom-covered chicken. This topping will toast to a delightful golden brown, adding a savory crunch.
7. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish uncovered into the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is lightly browned and, most importantly, when the chicken juices run clear when pierced with a fork or knife, indicating it’s fully cooked through and safe to enjoy.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Mushroom Choice: While fresh mushrooms are specified, feel free to experiment with different varieties. Cremini, shiitake, or a blend can add wonderful depth. Ensure they are cleaned and chopped uniformly for even cooking.
• Breadcrumbs: For the best texture, use soft breadcrumbs, often referred to as fresh breadcrumbs. You can easily make these by pulsing day-old bread in a food processor. If you only have dried breadcrumbs, pulse them in a food processor until they reach a softer consistency, or lightly toast them first to avoid a gummy topping.
• Doneness Test: While the visual cue of clear juices is reliable, for absolute certainty, you can use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Butter for Browning: While the recipe calls for sautéing the mushrooms in butter after browning the chicken, you could technically brown the chicken in butter as well for an even richer flavor, though it may require more careful monitoring to prevent burning.
• Broth and Orange Juice Balance: The combination of savory chicken broth and the subtle sweetness and acidity of orange juice is crucial. Don’t be tempted to omit the orange juice; it adds a brightness that cuts through the richness.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Romano Chicken Supreme is a wonderfully versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Serve it hot, directly from the baking dish, to showcase that appealing golden-brown topping.

Serving Suggestions:

• Classic Pairings: This dish shines alongside simple sides that allow its flavors to be the star. Think creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, or steamed green beans. A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette also offers a refreshing contrast.
• Carb Lovers: For a more substantial meal, consider serving it with buttered egg noodles or orzo pasta.
• Presentation: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few extra shavings of Romano cheese for an elegant touch.

Storage Suggestions:

• Room Temperature: Leftovers should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours.
• Refrigeration: Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: While not ideal for optimal texture, Romano Chicken Supreme can be frozen. Cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, covering loosely with a paper towel to prevent splattering.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional content for Romano Chicken Supreme, based on typical ingredient values and serving sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	300 kcal	–
Total Fat	11.6 g	17 %
Saturated Fat	6.4 g	32 %
Cholesterol	110.6 mg	36 %
Sodium	442.1 mg	18 %
Total Carbohydrate	8.1 g	2 %
Dietary Fiber	1 g	4 %
Sugars	2.2 g	8 %
Protein	40.2 g	80 %

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Variations & Substitutions

While this recipe is excellent as is, there’s always room for personal culinary expression.

• Cheese Blend: If Romano cheese isn’t readily available or you prefer a different flavor profile, Parmesan cheese is an excellent substitute. A blend of both can also be delightful.
• Herb Power: Fresh herbs can elevate this dish. Consider adding fresh thyme or rosemary along with or instead of the dried basil for a more aromatic experience.
• Creamier Sauce: For a richer, creamier sauce, stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream or sour cream at the end of simmering the mushroom mixture, before spooning it over the chicken.
• Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes added to the mushroom sauté can provide a subtle warmth to balance the flavors.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely. Chicken thighs will also work well and might offer a bit more moisture and flavor, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.

Q: My mushrooms are releasing a lot of water; what should I do?
A: This is normal. Continue to sauté them until the liquid evaporates and they begin to brown slightly. The lemon juice helps to tenderize them and adds brightness.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the mushroom mixture and have the chicken ready to go. However, it’s best to assemble and bake the dish just before serving to ensure the topping is crisp and the chicken is perfectly cooked.

Q: Is it important to bake the chicken uncovered?
A: Yes, baking uncovered allows the topping to achieve that desirable golden-brown crispness and prevents the chicken from steaming, ensuring a more appealing texture.

Q: What kind of orange juice is best to use?
A: Freshly squeezed orange juice will offer the best flavor, but good quality 100% pure orange juice from concentrate will also work effectively.

Final Thoughts

Romano Chicken Supreme is more than just a recipe; it’s a reminder that simple ingredients, prepared with care, can yield extraordinary results. It’s the kind of dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table, perfect for a relaxed family dinner or even when entertaining guests. Its elegant simplicity makes it approachable for cooks of all levels, and its deeply satisfying flavor profile is sure to win hearts. I encourage you to try this delightful recipe, to embrace the joy of an unexpected culinary discovery, and to make it your own. Perhaps serve it alongside a crisp white wine, like a Vermentino or a Sauvignon Blanc, to complement its savory notes. I’d love to hear about your experience with this fantastic dish!