Easy Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe in 25 Minutes

Introduction

Craving a hearty and delicious meal? This mushroom chicken recipe is the perfect blend of savory chicken and earthy mushrooms, creating a comforting dish that’s ideal for weeknight dinners. Known for being both nutritious and incredibly easy to prepare, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

For readers interested in exploring more healthy chicken recipes, don’t miss this Healthy Chicken Salad that pairs well with a variety of main courses.

Ingredients Overview

To craft the perfect mushroom chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Essential Ingredients:

• Chicken breast or thighs – 500g (1.1 lbs), fresh, boneless, and skinless for easier cooking.
• Mushrooms – 300g (10.5 oz), cremini or button mushrooms, cleaned and sliced.
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced.
• Onion – 1 medium-sized onion (about 150g or 5 oz), diced finely.
• Chicken broth – 250ml (1 cup), for a savory base.
• Heavy cream (optional) – 120ml (½ cup), for a creamy variation.
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons, for searing the chicken and sautéing.
• Salt – 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste).
• Black pepper – ½ teaspoon (adjust to taste).
• Herbs – 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped.

Absolutely! A good skillet makes all the difference! Using a reliable non-stick pan helps cook your ingredients evenly and makes cleanup a breeze. Perfect for quick and healthy meals!

Happy cooking! 🍳

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Creamy Mushroom Chicken

This recipe is simple yet requires attention to a few key details to ensure it turns out perfectly.

Preparation

1. Season the chicken: Sprinkle ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh parsley) over the chicken. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
2. Prepare the mushrooms: Clean and slice 300g (10.5 oz) of mushrooms evenly for consistent cooking.

Cooking Process

1. Sear the chicken:
   • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. Sauté the mushrooms and garlic:
   • In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5 minutes or until golden brown.
   • Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 diced onion. Sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Create the sauce:
   • Pour in 250ml (1 cup) of chicken broth, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan to deglaze it.
   • Optionally, add 120ml (½ cup) of heavy cream for a richer texture. Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine and finish:
   • Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce.
   • Cover and simmer for another 8-10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 75°C or 165°F).

Tip: For optimal taste, always opt for fresh mushrooms and high-quality chicken. Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy!

For more comfort food ideas, consider trying the Chicken Divan Recipe for a rich, creamy dish with similar flavors.

Popular Variations of Chicken with Mushrooms

Want to switch up your mushroom chicken recipe? Here are some popular adaptations:

• Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken: Boost the flavor with extra minced garlic and finish the sauce with heavy cream.
• Baked Mushroom Chicken: After searing, transfer the chicken and sauce to an oven-safe dish and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace heavy cream with almond milk and serve the dish over cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.

FAQs About Making the Perfect Mushroom Chicken Recipe

What Can I Serve with Mushroom Chicken?

Pair with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side of rice for a well-rounded meal.

How Do I Thicken Mushroom Sauce?

For a thicker sauce, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water and adding it to the sauce.

Can I Make Mushroom Chicken in an Instant Pot?

Yes, this dish adapts well to the Instant Pot. Use the sauté function for browning and pressure cook on high for 7 minutes, followed by a natural release.

What Kind of Mushrooms Work Best?

Cremini or button mushrooms are classic choices, but shiitake mushrooms can add an even more robust flavor.

Tips for Perfect Mushroom Chicken Recipe

• Avoid overcooking: This ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook the mushrooms in batches if needed to achieve a perfect golden-brown sear.
• Enhance the sauce: A splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard can add depth to the flavor.

Nutrition and Health Benefits of Chicken and Mushroom Dishes

Mushroom chicken isn’t just tasty; it’s full of nutrients. Chicken provides lean protein, while mushrooms are rich in vitamins B and D, supporting energy metabolism and bone health. This dish is also great for boosting your immune system.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Consider serving this mushroom chicken with:

• Mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice.
• Steamed or roasted green vegetables like green beans or broccoli.
• Pairing it with a glass of Chardonnay for a sophisticated touch.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm up in a skillet over low heat or use the microwave on a medium setting to retain moisture and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not searing the chicken properly: This step is crucial for flavor.
• Overcrowding the pan with mushrooms: Leads to steaming instead of browning.
• Using low-quality broth: Impacts the overall taste of the dish.

Conclusion

This mushroom chicken recipe is a straightforward yet flavorful dish that is perfect for any night of the week. Try adding your twist to make it your own, and enjoy this versatile meal with family and friends.