Chicken breasts bonne maman

4 servings

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
4Chicken breasts, whole, skinless, boneless
Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
½poundsSmall white onions (about 26)
3tablespoonsOlive oil
½poundsMushrooms, whole if small, sliced if large
8Fresh basil leaves
cupDry white wine
1tablespoonButter

Directions

Cut each chicken breast in half down the center. Cut off and discard any membranes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Peel the onions and place them in a saucepan with cold water to cover and salt to taste.

Bring to a boil and cook for about 2 minutes. Drain. Heat the oil in a large heavy skillet and add the breast pieces. Cook for about 30 seconds and add the onions. Cook for 10 minutes, then turn the chicken pieces. Scatter the mushrooms over all and cook for 3 minutes more. Add the basil leaves, wine, and butter. Cook, covered, about 3 minutes. Remove the basil leaves and garnish each breast piece with one of the leaves. Serve with the onion and mushroom sauce spooned over.

Yield: 4 servings.

[ Pierre Franey, 60-Minute Gourmet Column ]