Using a mallet, pound down the chicken breasts/thighs into ½ inch thickness. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken.

In a 2 cup measuring cup or a small bowl, combine the chicken broth , minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and dried thyme.

Position a rack in the lower third of the oven and preheat the oven to 375ºF.

Heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium high heat. Add the mushrooms and allow to brown for 3-4 minutes stirring as required to brown both sides. Remove the mushrooms to a plate (use one large enough to remove chicken as well).

Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil on medium high heat. Add the chicken and allow to brown on both sides for 2-3 minutes per side. Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t cooked completely, we’ll finish it in the oven. Remove the chicken to plate.

Reduce the flame to medium, add the shallots to the skillet along with the chicken broth mixture. Using a whisk, scrape the bottom of the pan so all the brown bits are loosened. Let sauce simmer and reduce for about 8-10 minutes or until about ⅓ cup of the sauce remains. <– if you do not do this step, your sauce will NOT thicken.