Sometimes, all you need is a bowl of creamy, dreamy chicken mushroom goodness to turn your day around. This recipe is your ticket to comfort food heaven, with a rich sauce that hugs every bite of tender chicken and earthy mushrooms.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of chicken and mushrooms creates a umami-packed foundation that’s irresistibly savory.
- A creamy sauce made with a blend of heavy cream and chicken broth ensures every bite is luxuriously smooth.
- Simple ingredients come together in one pan for a fuss-free meal that feels gourmet.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners yet fancy enough for company.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead option.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown on all sides but not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and mushrooms, cooking until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms have released their moisture, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly, about 3 minutes.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the sauce. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
Step 5: Final Adjustments
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot over your choice of pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer flavor, consider browning the mushrooms separately before adding them to the skillet. This step caramelizes the mushrooms, adding depth to the dish. If you’re short on time, using pre-sliced mushrooms can save a few minutes of prep. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added with the thyme can introduce a pleasant warmth to the dish. Lastly, if the sauce is too thick, a splash of additional chicken broth can loosen it to your desired consistency.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the cremini mushrooms for wild mushrooms like chanterelles or morels for a gourmet twist.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Incorporate spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for a pop of color and nutrients.
- Use turkey or pork as a substitute for chicken for a different protein option.
- For a dairy-free version, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk and use olive oil instead of butter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This creamy chicken mushroom dish stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a little chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge.
What’s the best way to serve this dish?
This versatile recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a hearty meal, serve it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad complements the creamy sauce nicely.
Can I freeze this dish?
While you can freeze it, the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing. To minimize this, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stove, stirring occasionally.
Summary
This creamy chicken mushroom recipe is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a surefire way to delight your taste buds and impress your dinner guests.