Creamy Mushroom Chicken is the ultimate one-pan dish, featuring perfectly pan-seared chicken breasts enveloped in a deeply savory, rich cream sauce loaded with earthy mushrooms.1 This recipe is pure indulgence, yet it’s surprisingly quick, making it a perfect weeknight meal. I first perfected this dish because I wanted a restaurant-quality meal that focused on simple, natural flavors.
The magic of this recipe is in the sauce. By deglazing the pan with white wine (or broth) and using a combination of fresh herbs, we build a flavor base that makes the final cream sauce incredibly complex and satisfying. Served over pasta or mashed potatoes, this dish is guaranteed to deliver comfort and elegance with minimal effort.
Ingredients for Creamy Mushroom Chicken
We are using boneless, skinless chicken breasts pounded thin for quick cooking and maximum tenderness. Cremini (Baby Bella) mushrooms are highly recommended for their deep, earthy flavor. This recipe serves 4 people:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to 1/2-inch thickness
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided2
- 2 tablespoons olive oil3
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 pound cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced4
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc) or extra chicken broth5
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream6
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme7
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
The key to a successful sauce is building flavor in the pan by searing the chicken and sautéing the mushrooms before adding any liquid.
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they have released their liquid and browned beautifully. Season the mushrooms with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
Step 3: Deglaze and Add Aromatics
Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the white wine (or broth) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this is the base of your flavor! Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until the liquid has reduced by half.
Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the pan and spoon the mushroom sauce generously over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately over your favorite side.
Perfect Pairings for Creamy Mushroom Chicken
This rich, savory dish calls for simple sides that can soak up the luxurious sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the classic pairing, providing the perfect fluffy vehicle for the sauce.
- Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles, simply tossed with butter, are fantastic for absorbing the rich mushroom cream.
- Garlic Bread: Crusty, garlicky bread is a non-negotiable for scraping the last of the sauce from the plate.
- Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: These offer a necessary fresh, green element to balance the richness of the cream sauce.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For reheating, use the stovetop over low heat. If the sauce has thickened too much in the refrigerator, stir in a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin it out while warming. Avoid boiling the sauce, as the cream may separate.
Pro Tip: If the sauce separates slightly upon reheating, remove it from the heat and vigorously whisk in 1 teaspoon of cold water to emulsify it again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
You can, but ensure they are fully thawed, pounded thin, and patted completely dry before seasoning and searing. Excess moisture will prevent a good sear.
Can I substitute other mushrooms?
Yes. Shiitake or oyster mushrooms work beautifully and add an even deeper umami flavor. Wild mushroom mixes are also a wonderful choice.
Do I have to use white wine?
No. You can easily substitute the wine with an equal amount of chicken broth. The wine, however, adds a layer of depth and acidity that balances the creaminess.
Conclusion
Creamy Mushroom Chicken is comfort food at its finest. It’s a quick, elegant, and deeply satisfying meal that transforms simple ingredients into a rich culinary experience. With its savory chicken and lush mushroom sauce, it’s guaranteed to be a new favorite in your kitchen.
