Creamy Mushroom Chicken

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner, Creamy Mushroom Chicken is the perfect recipe for you. This dish features tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting guests, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Here’s everything you need to know to make this creamy mushroom chicken dish that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups sliced mushrooms (such as cremini or button mushrooms)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Chicken:
    Start by heating olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Once the skillet is hot, cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  2. Prepare the Mushroom Sauce:
    In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook until they begin to release their moisture and become tender, approximately 5 minutes.
  3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
    Sprinkle the thyme and rosemary over the mushrooms, stirring well to combine. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any flavorful bits. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly. Then, stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce simmer for another 3-4 minutes until it thickens.
  4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
    Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the chicken. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak in the creamy mushroom sauce.
  5. Serve and Garnish:
    Once the chicken is thoroughly coated and the sauce is thick and creamy, serve the dish immediately. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of color and freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Mushroom Chicken:

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe is incredibly simple to prepare and doesn’t require fancy ingredients. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but still want a delicious, home-cooked meal.
  • Comforting and Flavorful: The rich, creamy mushroom sauce pairs wonderfully with the juicy chicken, creating a satisfying and comforting meal. The garlic, thyme, and rosemary enhance the natural flavors of the dish, making it a true comfort food favorite.
  • Versatile: You can serve this creamy mushroom chicken over rice, mashed potatoes, or even pasta. It also pairs well with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a well-rounded meal.

Tips for Making the Perfect Creamy Mushroom Chicken:

  • Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms bring a deeper, richer flavor to the sauce. If you want to get creative, you can also mix different types of mushrooms, like shiitake or portobello, for a unique twist.
  • Adjust the Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thinner sauce, simply add a bit more chicken broth. For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
  • Add Cheese: For an extra indulgent touch, stir in a bit of grated parmesan cheese to the sauce for added flavor and creaminess.

Conclusion:

Creamy Mushroom Chicken is a fantastic dish that combines tender chicken with a luscious, savory mushroom sauce. It’s a meal that’s simple enough for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough to serve to guests. Try this recipe today, and prepare to be amazed by how quickly it becomes a go-to dinner option in your home.

Serving Tips for Creamy Mushroom Chicken:

  1. Pair with Sides:
    Creamy Mushroom Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:
    • Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce is perfect for spooning over fluffy mashed potatoes.
    • Rice: Serve the chicken and sauce over steamed rice, whether white, brown, or even wild rice for added texture.
    • Pasta: Fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti make great bases for the creamy sauce.
    • Vegetables: Steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or sautéed spinach complement the dish beautifully and add a healthy balance.
  2. Garnish for Color and Freshness:
    Garnishing your dish with fresh parsley, thyme sprigs, or even a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese can elevate the presentation and add a fresh burst of flavor.
  3. Make it a Complete Meal:
    Serve the creamy mushroom chicken as part of a multi-course meal by starting with a light soup like a green pea soup or butternut squash soup, followed by a fresh green salad. End the meal with a light dessert like lemon sorbet or fruit tarts.

Storage Tips for Creamy Mushroom Chicken:

  1. Refrigerating Leftovers:
    Allow any leftover creamy mushroom chicken to cool to room temperature before storing. Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for 3 to 4 days in the fridge.
  2. Freezing Leftovers:
    This dish can be frozen for longer storage. To freeze:
    • Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely.
    • Transfer the chicken and sauce to an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring all air is removed.
    • Label the container with the date, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  3. Reheating Tips:
    When reheating, be sure to warm the dish slowly over low heat to avoid separating the cream in the sauce. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or a little more cream to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency. Reheat it in a pan on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

By following these serving and storage tips, you’ll ensure that your Creamy Mushroom Chicken stays as delicious the next day or even weeks later!

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Chicken thighs are slightly more tender and juicy, and they will work wonderfully with the creamy mushroom sauce. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. You can also use dairy-free butter or olive oil in place of the butter. Be sure to check the chicken broth for any dairy ingredients or use a vegetable broth for a completely dairy-free meal.

3. Can I add other vegetables to the creamy mushroom sauce?
Absolutely! You can add a variety of vegetables to the sauce, such as spinach, peas, or even asparagus. These vegetables will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish while providing extra nutrition.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Creamy Mushroom Chicken ahead of time. After cooking, let it cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency.

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Creamy Mushroom Chicken

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  • Author: Stephanie
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce make this a delightful and satisfying dish. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 lbs / 700g)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for coating the chicken)
  • 2 cups (200g) sliced mushrooms (white or cremini)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

  1. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. (Optional) Lightly coat the chicken with flour for a golden, slightly crisp exterior.

2. Sear the Chicken:

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

3. Cook the Mushrooms and Aromatics:

  1. In the same skillet, add the mushrooms and sauté for 5 minutes, or until golden and tender.
  2. Add the garlic and onion, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

4. Make the Sauce:

  1. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze.
  2. Stir in the heavy cream and thyme. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
  3. Add Parmesan cheese (if using) and stir until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.

5. Combine and Cook:

  1. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them.
  2. Cover and simmer on low heat for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).

6. Serve:

  1. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
  2. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the creamy mushroom sauce.

Notes

  • Substitute heavy cream with a mixture of milk and cornstarch for a lighter option.
  • Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid curdling the sauce.

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