Mushroom Chicken Recipe

Mushroom Chicken is a hearty and comforting dish made with tender chicken and savory mushrooms in a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s a simple yet elegant recipe that comes together quickly, perfect for a cozy family dinner or even a casual dinner party.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The chicken is seared until golden and then simmered in a creamy mushroom sauce that’s full of umami depth. It pairs beautifully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice and can easily be adapted to suit different diets. Whether you’re cooking for two or for a crowd, Mushroom Chicken is always a satisfying option.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil or butter
• Mushrooms (cremini, white button, or a mix), sliced
• Garlic, minced
• Onion, finely chopped (optional)
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
• Fresh thyme or parsley (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan (optional)

Directions

1. Season chicken on both sides with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add mushrooms and cook until browned and their moisture has evaporated, about 5–7 minutes.
4. Add garlic (and onion if using), and sauté for another minute.
5. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits.
6. Stir in cream and Dijon mustard (if using). Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over it. Let simmer for 2–3 more minutes.
8. Garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan, if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

• Cream-free version: Skip the cream and add more broth or a splash of white wine for a lighter sauce.
• Add greens: Stir in baby spinach or kale at the end for added color and nutrients.
• Cheesy twist: Mix in a bit of grated mozzarella or Gruyère for a richer, cheesier sauce.
• Herb flavor: Try rosemary, sage, or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
• Mushroom medley: Use a mix of shiitake, oyster, or portobello for deeper umami flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Freezing is possible but not ideal if the sauce contains cream, as it may separate.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, just adjust the cooking time as bone-in pieces take longer to cook through.

What kind of mushrooms work best?

Cremini or white button mushrooms are great, but a blend of mushrooms adds more depth.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use a non-dairy cream substitute like coconut cream or almond milk creamer, though the flavor may slightly vary.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as your broth and mustard are gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead, then reheat gently on the stove before serving.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. You may want to add a bit of flour or cornstarch to help thicken it.

What should I serve with Mushroom Chicken?

It pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.

Can I make it spicy?

Sure—add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Why is my sauce too thin?

Let it simmer a bit longer to reduce, or add a cornstarch slurry to thicken it.

Can I freeze Mushroom Chicken?

It can be frozen, but creamy sauces may separate when thawed. If freezing, undercook the sauce slightly and reheat gently.

Conclusion

Mushroom Chicken is a rich and satisfying dish that’s as comforting as it is versatile. With tender chicken and a savory mushroom sauce, it’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Whether you serve it with pasta, potatoes, or a simple side salad, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

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