Cream of Mushroom Chicken is a savory and comforting dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, creamy mushroom sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and can be served with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of vegetables. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, Cream of Mushroom Chicken is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add the can of cream of mushroom soup and heavy cream. Stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the mushroom sauce over the top.
- Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 10 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld together.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Tips for the Perfect Cream of Mushroom Chicken
- Choose fresh mushrooms: Opt for fresh mushrooms like cremini or button mushrooms to enhance the flavor of the sauce.
- Use homemade cream of mushroom soup: For an extra touch of luxury, you can make your own cream of mushroom soup instead of using canned.
- Add herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can add a fragrant and earthy flavor to the dish.
- Serve with starches: This creamy chicken pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, Cream of Mushroom Chicken is ideal for busy weeknights.
- Comfort Food: The creamy sauce and tender chicken make this dish a comforting and hearty meal.
- Versatile: You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or carrots for a complete one-pan meal.
Conclusion
Cream of Mushroom Chicken is a timeless recipe that brings warmth and comfort to the table. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Try this recipe for a cozy dinner and enjoy the perfect blend of creamy mushroom goodness and tender chicken.
Serving and Storage Tips for Cream of Mushroom Chicken
Serving Suggestions
Cream of Mushroom Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some serving ideas to complete your meal:
- Rice: Serve the chicken over fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even wild rice to soak up the creamy mushroom sauce.
- Pasta: Pair with buttered noodles, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice for a satisfying meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: The richness of mashed potatoes complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Vegetables: Steam or roast vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a lighter side dish.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic bread to dip into the sauce.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, storing Cream of Mushroom Chicken properly will ensure it stays delicious for future meals.
Refrigerator
- How to Store: Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator.
- Shelf Life: Cream of Mushroom Chicken will keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 1-2 minute increments, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Freezer
- How to Store: If you want to freeze leftovers, place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag.
- Shelf Life: This dish can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen up the sauce.
Tips for Best Results
- Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, be mindful not to overcook the chicken, as it may become dry. Use low heat and stir frequently to ensure the chicken stays tender.
- Freeze in Portions: If you anticipate having leftovers, consider freezing the dish in individual portions for easy reheating.
- Label Your Containers: Always label your containers with the date when freezing to keep track of how long the dish has been stored.
1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken like thighs or drumsticks. Just be aware that bone-in chicken will require a longer cooking time. Cook the chicken until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, Cream of Mushroom Chicken can be made ahead of time. Prepare the dish as directed, then allow it to cool before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop or in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.
3. Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup with something else?
If you prefer to avoid canned soup, you can make a homemade version by sautéing mushrooms with butter and flour, then adding chicken broth and heavy cream. This homemade sauce will give you the same creamy texture with a fresher taste.
4. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make Cream of Mushroom Chicken dairy-free, substitute the cream of mushroom soup and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk, almond milk, or a dairy-free cream substitute. You can also use a plant-based butter or oil for sautéing the vegetables.