Cream of mushroom chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish that transforms simple chicken breasts into a rich, creamy delight. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy to prepare, perfect for weeknights, and tastes like it came from a restaurant, this guide will walk you through every step to make a delicious cream of mushroom chicken at home.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients Overview
Before diving into cooking, gather these simple ingredients:
For the Chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)
– Salt, paprika, and black pepper for seasoning
– Flour for dredging
For the Mushroom Sauce:
– Olive oil and unsalted butter for cooking
– 8 oz baby portabella mushrooms, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
– ½ cup heavy cream
– Fresh parsley for garnish
These ingredients come together to create a savory, creamy sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cream of Mushroom Chicken
1. Season and Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt, paprika, and black pepper. Then lightly coat each breast with flour. This helps create a golden, crispy crust when you cook the chicken.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic
In the same skillet, melt butter and add the sliced mushrooms. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until they turn golden and release their moisture. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan to add flavor. Stir in Dijon mustard and dried thyme, then let the sauce simmer for about 3 minutes to reduce slightly. Next, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to thicken for 2 to 3 minutes.
5. Combine and Simmer
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy mushroom sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. This step lets the flavors meld beautifully.
6. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve your cream of mushroom chicken with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips for the Perfect Cream of Mushroom Chicken
– Even Thickness: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
– Don’t Skip the Flour: Lightly dredging the chicken in flour helps create a beautiful crust and thickens the sauce slightly.
– Use Fresh Mushrooms: Baby portabella or cremini mushrooms add a rich, earthy flavor.
– Make It Your Own: Feel free to add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to enhance the flavor.
– One-Pan Wonder: This recipe is designed for one skillet, making cleanup easy and quick.
Variations to Try
– Using Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: For a quicker version, you can substitute the homemade sauce with a can of condensed cream of mushroom soup, thinning it with chicken broth or milk as needed.
– Add Spinach or Greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale at the end for extra nutrition and color.
– Dairy-Free Option: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative to suit dietary needs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Simple and Fast: Ready in about 30 to 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
– Comfort Food Classic: Creamy, savory, and satisfying.
– Restaurant Quality at Home: Impress your family or guests with minimal effort.
– Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides like rice, pasta, or vegetables.
Cream of mushroom chicken is a timeless dish that’s easy to make and incredibly delicious. With just a handful of ingredients and one skillet, you can whip up a meal that feels indulgent yet comforting. Try this recipe tonight and enjoy a creamy, savory dinner that everyone will love.