If you are craving a dish that is both comforting and elegantly simple, you have to try this Chicken with Mushroom Sauce Recipe. Tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection are smothered in a silky, savory mushroom sauce that combines earthy cremini mushrooms, rich cream, and a hint of tangy Dijon mustard. It’s a surefire way to transform your weeknight dinner into something truly special without spending hours in the kitchen. The balance of creamy and hearty flavors makes this a favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to unlocking the full potential of this Chicken with Mushroom Sauce Recipe. Each item is straightforward but plays a crucial role in layering the flavors, from the juicy chicken to the luscious cream and aromatic herbs.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The foundation of the dish, they cook quickly and stay juicy when properly seared.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors and seasons the chicken perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a subtle warmth and peppery bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Ideal for searing the chicken with a beautiful golden crust.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness to the mushroom sauce and helps develop flavor.
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced: They give the sauce its earthy depth and wonderful texture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant punch that complements the mushrooms perfectly.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Balances the sauce with savory notes and helps deglaze the pan.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates that luscious, smooth sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds umami richness and a subtle nuttiness to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Brings a gentle tang that brightens the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme: Infuses the dish with a delicate herbal aroma.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Offers a pop of color and freshness at the end.
How to Make Chicken with Mushroom Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts evenly with salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Place the chicken in the pan and let it cook undisturbed for about 6 to 7 minutes per side. The result should be a gorgeous golden crust on the outside and juicy, cooked-through chicken inside. Once ready, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, which will give you that luxurious base for the sauce. Add the sliced mushrooms and let them cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re beautifully browned and tender. Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute to release its fragrant aroma without burning.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
Now it’s time to pour in the chicken broth. Use your spoon to scrape up all the delicious browned bits stuck to the pan—this adds incredible flavor depth. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and thyme. Let everything simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together into a silky, irresistible coating.
Step 4: Reintroduce the Chicken and Finish Cooking
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the mushroom sauce. Spoon the sauce over the top to fully coat each piece and cook for another 2 minutes to warm everything through. This step ensures that the chicken stays juicy and the sauce clings beautifully, making every bite delightful.
How to Serve Chicken with Mushroom Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top is a simple touch that brightens the dish with a fresh herbal note and lively color contrast. If you want an extra flair, a little lemon zest can also enhance the flavors with a light citrusy hint.
Side Dishes
This Chicken with Mushroom Sauce Recipe shines when paired with creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up the luscious sauce perfectly. Alternatively, serving it over warm pasta or fluffy rice creates a hearty meal that comforts and satisfies. Roasted or steamed vegetables like green beans or asparagus add a nice crisp texture to round the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, consider plating the chicken breasts on a bed of herb-infused risotto or alongside a colorful medley of roasted root vegetables. Drizzle the mushroom sauce generously over the top for that wow factor. Wrapping the chicken in foil packets with the sauce inside is another fun way to serve individual portions while keeping the dish moist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover chicken with mushroom sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce and chicken together helps maintain the flavor and moisture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at medium power to avoid overcooking the chicken. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much during storage, stirring until warm and smooth.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust cooking time slightly as they can take a bit longer to cook through.
Is there a lighter version of this Chicken with Mushroom Sauce Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream to reduce the fat content while still enjoying a creamy sauce.
What types of mushrooms work best?
Cremini mushrooms are preferred for their deep flavor, but white button mushrooms or even shiitake can work beautifully as well.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and Dijon mustard. Always double-check labels to be sure.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling when reheating?
Heat the sauce slowly on low to medium heat and avoid boiling it during reheating. Stir gently and add a little more cream or broth if needed to keep it smooth.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken with Mushroom Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—comforting, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests, making it a true kitchen gem to have in your repertoire. Give it a try soon and watch it become an instant favorite in your home!
Print
Chicken with Mushroom Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Chicken with Mushroom Sauce recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce. Made on the stovetop with simple ingredients like mushrooms, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and thyme, it’s a comforting main course perfect for a family dinner. The savory sauce pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Mushroom Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season and cook chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm.
- Prepare mushroom sauce base: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and tender.
- Add garlic and deglaze: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits for added flavor.
- Make the creamy sauce: Add the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and thyme to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the mushroom sauce over them. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to warm through.
- Garnish and serve: Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the chicken with your choice of mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice to enjoy with the creamy mushroom sauce.
Notes
- Serve with mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice to soak up the sauce.
- You can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Use boneless chicken thighs instead for a juicier alternative.
