If you're craving a hearty, flavorful dish that can be whipped up quickly yet still impress your guests or family, look no further! This Creamy Mushroom Chicken recipe is a rich and indulgent meal that combines tender chicken breasts with a savory, creamy mushroom sauce. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will be a go-to in your kitchen. Keep reading to learn how to create this delicious dish, along with tips, variations, and presentation ideas that will elevate your cooking game.

What is Creamy Mushroom Chicken?
Creamy Mushroom Chicken is a classic comfort food that pairs juicy chicken breasts with a luscious mushroom cream sauce. This dish often includes simple ingredients like garlic, onions, heavy cream, and fresh herbs, all cooked together in one pan for an easy yet satisfying meal. The creamy sauce, bursting with the umami flavor of mushrooms, coats the chicken perfectly, making every bite rich and flavorful. It's versatile, easy to prepare, and sure to become a household favorite. Now let’s dive into what you need to make it!
Ingredients List for Creamy Mushroom Chicken
Here’s everything you need to create the most delicious Creamy Mushroom Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (225g) cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon flour (for thickening)
These ingredients are pantry staples that can easily be found at any grocery store. The combination of chicken and mushrooms is a classic match made in heaven, while the Parmesan cheese adds a delightful salty note to balance the richness of the cream.
Substitutions and Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe based on your taste preferences or dietary needs:
- Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a great alternative. They stay juicy and tender, even after simmering in the sauce.
- Mushroom Varieties: Use any mushrooms you like! Cremini, button, shiitake, or portobello mushrooms all work well, adding different depths of flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version that still maintains the creamy texture.
- Keto-Friendly: If you're following a low-carb or keto diet, skip the flour and use extra Parmesan or xanthan gum to thicken the sauce.
- Wine: For added depth, splash in ¼ cup of white wine when sautéing the onions and garlic. Let it reduce before adding the cream.
With these easy swaps, you can tailor the dish to suit any occasion or dietary preference.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. You want to make sure both sides are well-coated to bring out the flavor as they cook. - Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and the butter has melted, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. You don't need to cook them fully at this stage because they’ll finish cooking in the sauce. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. - Cook the Mushrooms and Onions:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they are fragrant and slightly translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5-7 minutes until they release their liquid and turn golden brown. - Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet—this adds extra flavor. Let the broth simmer for a minute, then add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir the sauce well to combine and let it thicken slightly. - Return the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Let them simmer in the sauce for another 10-15 minutes or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). - Garnish and Serve:
Once the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened to your liking, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked. To avoid this, sear the chicken on high heat but finish cooking it in the sauce, so it stays moist and tender.
- Watery Sauce: If your sauce seems too thin, let it simmer a bit longer, or stir in a spoonful of flour or cornstarch dissolved in water to thicken it.
- Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly if the heat is too high. Always sauté it over medium heat and keep a close eye on it.
- Not Searing the Chicken Properly: A good sear adds flavor. Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How you serve and present Creamy Mushroom Chicken can take it from a simple dish to an elegant meal.
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom Chicken
Creamy Mushroom Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some options:
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce is perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes.
- Pasta: Serve the chicken over fettuccine or penne for a complete meal.
- Rice: Fluffy white rice or wild rice adds a nice contrast to the rich sauce.
- Vegetables: Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus complement the flavors well.
- Crusty Bread: For a more casual dinner, serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Presentation Ideas for Creamy Mushroom Chicken
Elevate the look of your dish with these simple presentation tips:
- Use Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a touch of color and freshness.
- Plating: Serve the chicken breast on individual plates, spooning the sauce over the top. Arrange mushrooms around the chicken for a neat presentation.
- Add a Citrus Touch: For added color and brightness, place a lemon wedge or a slice of lemon on the side.
- Family-Style Serving: Serve the dish in the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation. Add a large serving spoon so everyone can help themselves to the creamy sauce.
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe Tips
- Temperature Control: Keep the skillet over medium heat to prevent the cream from curdling.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After searing the chicken, let it rest on a plate for a few minutes before returning it to the sauce. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken even more tender.
- Thicken as Needed: If you find the sauce too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes or add a spoonful of flour.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and mushrooms bring out the best flavors. Don’t substitute with powdered versions unless you have no other choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will stay juicy and add even more flavor to the dish. - What’s the best type of mushroom to use?
Cremini or button mushrooms are great for this recipe, but feel free to use a mix of mushrooms like shiitake or portobello for extra flavor. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time, then store them separately. Reheat everything together in the skillet when ready to serve. - Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion
This Creamy Mushroom Chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves rich, flavorful comfort food that’s easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner or hosting a more formal gathering, this dish will satisfy everyone at the table. From its versatile ingredient list to the variety of serving options, Creamy Mushroom Chicken is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Follow the tips and step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have a dish that’s both delicious and beautifully presented. Enjoy!
Now that you know how to make this amazing Creamy Mushroom Chicken, why not give it a try tonight? Your taste buds will thank you!
PrintCreamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe
This creamy mushroom chicken recipe is a comforting, savory dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, creamy mushroom sauce. Perfect for a quick family dinner or a cozy meal, it’s easy to make and loaded with flavor. Keywords: creamy mushroom chicken, quick dinner, comfort food, chicken breast, mushroom sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 cups mushrooms (sliced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook them until golden on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
- Add mushrooms and cook until soft.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer until sauce thickens.
- Return chicken to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes, letting the sauce infuse.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- You can use any type of mushrooms, but cremini or button mushrooms work best.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Serve over pasta or rice for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
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