This creamy chicken and mushroom dish is a comforting, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. With tender chicken, juicy mushrooms, and a rich, velvety sauce, it’s a dish that will surely become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is easy to make and delivers a lot of flavor. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients:
For the chicken and sauce:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for a juicier result)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (or a combination)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced (button mushrooms work best, but you can use cremini or portobello for a richer flavor)
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme sprigs if available)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
For the marinade (optional but recommended):
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for added freshness)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken breasts to ensure they are full of flavor. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, dried rosemary, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if you’re using it). Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the marinade, cover, and let them sit for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour in the fridge) to absorb the flavors.
If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but marinating the chicken helps infuse extra flavor into the meat.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
If necessary, you can cover the skillet with a lid and let the chicken rest to retain its juices.
Step 3: Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Now, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook the mushrooms for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mushrooms will release moisture as they cook, and you want them to become tender and start to brown. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can cook the mushrooms for a bit longer to develop a deeper brown color.
Step 4: Making the Creamy Sauce
Once the mushrooms are cooked down, pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any flavorful bits that may have stuck to the bottom of the pan. Bring the broth to a simmer and let it cook for about 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Now, add the heavy cream and thyme. Stir to combine and allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 5 minutes. The sauce will begin to thicken as the cream reduces, creating a rich, velvety texture.
At this point, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
Step 5: Combining the Chicken with the Sauce
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the mushroom and cream sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to ensure it’s well coated. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes. This step ensures the chicken is heated through and absorbs the flavors of the creamy sauce.
If you’re using fresh thyme sprigs, you can remove them before serving or leave them in for an extra burst of flavor.
Step 6: Garnishing and Serving
Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.
Serve this creamy chicken and mushroom dish over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a hearty meal. It also pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a simple green salad on the side.
Tips and Variations:
1. Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, you can add other vegetables like spinach, peas, or carrots to the sauce. Add them when the mushrooms are almost done cooking so they have time to soften.
2. Use Chicken Thighs: For a more tender, flavorful option, substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They will stay juicier and have a richer flavor.
3. Swap the Cream: If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind that the sauce will be less thick and creamy.
4. Use Different Mushrooms: While button mushrooms are commonly used, you can experiment with other mushrooms like shiitake or porcini for a more earthy, robust flavor.
5. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick of spice.
Storing Leftovers:
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the dish on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.
This dish also freezes well. To freeze, let the chicken and sauce cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and heat on the stovetop until warmed through.
Nutritional Information:
While the exact nutritional breakdown will vary depending on the specific ingredients you use, a typical serving of this creamy chicken and mushroom dish provides approximately:
• 450-500 calories per serving (based on 4 servings)
• 25-30 grams of protein
• 25-30 grams of fat (depending on whether you use butter or olive oil)
• Minimal carbohydrates
This makes for a filling, satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Conclusion:
This creamy chicken and mushroom dish is everything you want in a hearty, comforting meal. The combination of tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a luxurious creamy sauce makes it a winner every time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is sure to impress. The simplicity of the recipe means you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. Enjoy!