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Creamy Mushroom Chicken is a weeknight favorite that’s both comforting and wholesome.
What makes this recipe stand out is its perfect balance of flavor and ease.
The pan-seared chicken is juicy and golden, while the garlicky mushroom cream sauce adds deep, savory richness without needing complicated steps.
It’s a one-pan meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules or satisfying weeknight dinners.
From a nutritional standpoint, each serving provides a solid 29g of protein, making it a great high-protein option for muscle maintenance and satiety.
The mushrooms contribute fiber, antioxidants, and potassium, while the olive oil and cream bring healthy fats (especially monounsaturated fats).
Despite its creamy texture, the dish stays relatively low in carbs (only 9g per serving), making it a smart choice for low-carb lifestyles.
It’s also meal-prep friendly—just reheat and serve with rice, pasta, or steamed veggies.
Whether you’re craving something indulgent or need a quick go-to recipe, this one checks every box.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
All-Clad Stainless Steel Fry Pan (12-Inch)
Ideal for pan-frying chicken and building sauces in the same pan. Its even heat distribution helps achieve a perfect golden sear and consistent sauce reduction. A kitchen essential for everything from stir-fries to omelets.
OXO Good Grips Meat Tenderizer
Perfect for pounding chicken breasts into even cutlets. This helps them cook faster and more uniformly. Its dual-sided design is also useful for prepping steaks and tougher cuts.
Microplane Premium Garlic Zester/Grater
A must for finely mincing garlic with little effort. This tool brings out the garlic’s aromatic oils, enhancing the flavor of the sauce. Also great for zesting citrus or grating hard cheeses.
Cuisinart Silicone-Tipped Tongs
Ideal for flipping chicken or transferring mushrooms without scratching non-stick surfaces. These heat-resistant tongs offer control and ease in one-handed cooking tasks.
Pyrex Glass Measuring Cup (2-Cup)
Handy for accurately measuring and pouring chicken broth and cream. Microwave- and dishwasher-safe, it’s a durable tool that every kitchen benefits from.
Creamy Mushroom Chicken
Equipment
- 1 Cutting Board – for prepping chicken and mushrooms
- 1 Chef’s Knife – for slicing mushrooms and halving chicken breasts
- 1 Meat Tenderizer or Mallet – to create evenly thick chicken cutlets
- 1 Large Skillet (12-inch) – for searing and sauce-making
- 1 Pair of Kitchen Tongs – for flipping chicken and transferring ingredients
- 1 Microplane or Garlic Press – to finely mince garlic
- 1 Measuring Cup (liquid) – for broth and cream
- 1 Measuring Spoon Set – for seasoning and small ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour for coating the chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter for sautéing
- 12 ounces cremini or white mushrooms thinly sliced
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 garlic cloves finely minced
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup heavy cream or whipping cream
Instructions
- Prepare and Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and carefully slice them in half horizontally to create four thinner cutlets. Season both sides with salt and pepper, then lightly dredge each piece in flour until evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken cutlets in a single layer. Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and mostly cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté the Mushrooms and Seasoning: Reduce the heat slightly and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, stir in the mushrooms and Italian seasoning. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown deeply. Transfer the mushrooms to the same plate as the chicken.
- Build the Flavorful Sauce Base: To the empty pan, add the minced garlic, chicken broth, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Stir well to combine and loosen up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes, or until reduced by about half.
- Finish with Cream and Combine: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, then return the chicken and mushrooms (along with any juices) to the pan. Simmer gently for 5–6 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the chicken to finish cooking. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Notes
- Chicken Thickness Matters: Cutting the chicken into thinner cutlets helps it cook faster and more evenly. It also ensures a better sear without overcooking the inside.
- Mushroom Variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms like baby bella, shiitake, or a mix of wild mushrooms for added depth.
- Make It Lighter: For a lower-fat version, you can substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk in place of heavy cream, though the sauce may be slightly thinner.
- Pairing Ideas: This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or a side of roasted green vegetables like asparagus or green beans.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to preserve the creaminess.
Chef’s Secrets for Recipe Success
To get the best results from this creamy mushroom chicken, it all starts with how you prepare the chicken.
Slicing the chicken breasts into cutlets ensures they cook quickly and evenly, giving you a golden crust on the outside and tender, juicy meat inside.
Lightly dredging them in flour not only promotes browning but also helps thicken the sauce naturally.
When searing, don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed to ensure each piece gets that perfect crust.
When it comes to the mushrooms, patience is key.
Let them sit undisturbed in the pan for a few minutes so they caramelize and develop deep flavor.
Finally, simmer the sauce just until it starts to thicken—don’t rush this step, as it allows all the elements to come together beautifully.
Delicious and Versatile Serving Suggestions
This creamy mushroom chicken is rich, savory, and incredibly versatile, making it a perfect centerpiece for many meals.
It pairs wonderfully with starchy sides like mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or fluffy rice that soak up the luscious sauce.
For a low-carb option, try serving it with cauliflower mash, sautéed spinach, or steamed green beans.
A crisp green salad or roasted asparagus makes an excellent, refreshing contrast to the creamy richness of the dish.
For a heartier dinner, consider adding a slice of crusty bread or a glass of dry white wine like Chardonnay to elevate the meal further.
Smart Storage Tips and Reheating
Leftovers of creamy mushroom chicken store well, making this dish ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
While the recipe can technically be frozen, the cream sauce may separate upon thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.
If freezing is necessary, freeze just the chicken and mushrooms and add fresh cream when reheating for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe. They’re slightly fattier and more flavorful, and they remain juicy even after simmering in the sauce.
2. How do I keep the cream from curdling?
To prevent curdling, avoid boiling the cream. Let it simmer gently and stir frequently. Also, ensure your broth isn’t too acidic or overly hot when adding the cream.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute olive oil or plant-based butter for sautéing, use coconut cream or unsweetened almond cooking cream in place of heavy cream, and skip the butter.
4. What mushrooms work best?
Cremini or white mushrooms are classic choices, but baby bellas, shiitake, or even a wild mushroom blend can add extra depth and variety to the flavor.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, since flour is used to coat the chicken. However, you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour or even skipping the flour step altogether for a slightly thinner sauce.
This recipe is inspired by saltandlavender and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.
