If you are searching for a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting without demanding too much time or effort, this Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe is absolutely a must-try. It combines tender pan-seared chicken breasts with a luscious mushroom and parmesan cream sauce that is velvety smooth and bursting with flavor. Each bite brings together the earthiness of mushrooms, the subtle tang of white wine, and the rich, cheesy goodness of parmesan. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a special occasion, this dish always manages to impress and satisfy with its perfect balance of simplicity and elegance.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe lies in its straightforward, accessible ingredients. Every component plays a crucial role, from the tender chicken breasts that form the hearty base to the mushrooms that add depth, and the cream and parmesan that deliver that irresistible velvety texture and cheesy kick.
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut thinly for quick, even cooking and tender results.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
- 1/4 cup flour: Creates a light coating on the chicken for a golden crust and thickens the sauce slightly.
- 15g unsalted butter: For searing the chicken to a perfect golden brown.
- 30g unsalted butter: Used for sautéing mushrooms, intensifying their flavor.
- 300g sliced mushrooms (button or Swiss brown): The earthy star ingredient that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Provides a fragrant punch that lifts the dish.
- 1/4 cup dry white wine: Adds acidity and depth, balancing the richness of the sauce (can substitute chicken stock).
- 1/2 cup low sodium chicken or vegetable stock: Builds flavor without overpowering.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The heart of the creamy sauce, delivering richness and smoothness.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan: Adds a savory, nutty dimension and helps thicken the sauce.
- 2 tbsp finely sliced chives (optional): Garnishes with a fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin, evenly sized pieces. This not only speeds up cooking but also helps the chicken absorb more flavor. Season each piece generously with salt and black pepper, then dust with flour to create a delicate crust that will help lock in the juiciness during cooking.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Melt 15 grams of unsalted butter in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Place the chicken pieces in the pan and cook each side for about two and a half minutes until beautifully golden and just cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken and keep it warm by covering it. This step creates a crisp exterior while preserving tender moisture inside.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms
In the very same pan, add the remaining 30 grams of butter and crank up the heat to high. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook for around four minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to turn golden brown around the edges. This caramelization is key for bringing out their rich, earthy flavor that elevates the whole dish.
Step 4: Build Flavor with Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue cooking for another minute until both the garlic and mushrooms turn a lovely golden color, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that’s already hinting at the comforting meal to come.
Step 5: Deglaze to Capture Every Bit of Flavor
Pour in the dry white wine, which will bubble energetically. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan—these bits are pure flavor gold. Cook the wine for about 30 seconds until it largely evaporates, and the alcohol smell dissipates, leaving behind a subtle sharpness that balances the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Create the Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Add the chicken stock and cook vigorously for one minute, allowing most of it to evaporate and intensify. Next, pour in the heavy cream and reduce the heat to medium. Let the sauce simmer gently for about two minutes until it slightly thickens, creating that luscious texture you crave. This stage softens and melds the flavors beautifully.
Step 7: Finish the Sauce with Parmesan
Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Taste the sauce and adjust with extra salt and pepper if needed. The parmesan adds a wonderful savory, nutty dimension and helps the sauce become irresistibly creamy and silky smooth.
Step 8: Warm the Chicken in the Sauce
Return the chicken pieces to the pan and let them sit in the sauce for about 30 seconds just to warm through without overcooking. Sprinkle finely sliced chives on top for a burst of vibrant color and gentle freshness. The chicken is now perfectly coated with a rich, indulgent mushroom cream sauce that’s ready to be enjoyed.
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like finely sliced chives are a fantastic garnish to add a touch of brightness and color contrast on this dish. If you prefer, parsley or green onions work equally well as alternatives. A light sprinkle of extra parmesan just before serving can also add another layer of cheesy indulgence and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This creamy and flavorful chicken shines best when paired with sides that can soak up its luscious sauce. Mashed potatoes are a classic choice, offering a buttery, fluffy base that complements the creaminess perfectly. Rice is another excellent option, providing a neutral and comforting accompaniment. Steamed green vegetables or a simple salad can also add a refreshing balance to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, you can serve the chicken and mushroom sauce directly in the pan, allowing everyone to help themselves and enjoy the freshness from the stovetop. For a dinner party vibe, transfer the chicken onto a platter, spoon over the sauce, and garnish just before presenting. Consider plating the dish over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice for a restaurant-style look that’s sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe, it’s best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. This makes it a perfect dish to prepare in advance or enjoy as a quick next-day meal.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and mushroom sauce separately for up to two months. When freezing the sauce, allow it to cool completely before storing in freezer-safe containers. Keep in mind that cream-based sauces may slightly separate after freezing but can be revived with gentle reheating and stirring.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of stock or cream if the sauce looks too thick or separated. Heat slowly over medium-low heat while stirring to restore the creamy texture and ensure the chicken stays tender without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other kinds of mushrooms for this recipe?
Absolutely! While button or Swiss brown mushrooms work beautifully, you can experiment with cremini, shiitake, or even portobello. Just keep in mind they might bring slightly different flavors and textures, which can add an exciting twist to your creamy mushroom chicken experience.
Is it necessary to use white wine in the sauce?
Not at all. The white wine adds brightness and depth, but if you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute it with extra chicken or vegetable stock. This will still yield a delicious sauce, just with a slightly different flavor profile.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, swap the butter with a plant-based alternative, use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream substitute, and skip the parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative. The texture and taste will be different, but still comforting and enjoyable.
What’s the best way to ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Cutting the chicken breasts thinly helps them cook quickly and evenly, reducing the chance of drying out. Also, avoid overcooking—remove the chicken once golden and just cooked through; the sauce will warm it through again later.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
You can slice the chicken and even pre-sauté the mushrooms ahead of time to streamline the cooking process. Just keep them refrigerated and combine everything fresh on the cooking day. Preparing the sauce just before dinner ensures the best flavor and texture for this creamy mushroom chicken recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that never fails to bring a smile to the dinner table. Its rich, mushroom-infused sauce paired with tender chicken makes for a truly comforting meal that feels both special and simple. I encourage you to give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy chicken!
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Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Western
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A delicious and creamy chicken dish featuring tender pan-fried chicken breasts smothered in a rich mushroom and Parmesan cream sauce, flavored with garlic and white wine. Perfectly paired with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the luscious sauce.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (~600-700g / 1.2 – 1.4 lb total), each split horizontally to form 4 thin steaks
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup flour
Sauce
- 15g (1 tbsp) unsalted butter
- 30g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter
- 300g (10 oz) mushrooms, sliced (button or Swiss brown)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or substitute additional chicken stock)
- 1/2 cup low sodium chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 cup heavy cream (full fat, thickened cream)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp finely sliced chives (optional; can substitute parsley or green onions or omit)
Instructions
- Split chicken breast: Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create 4 thin steaks.
- Dust with flour: Season both sides of each chicken steak with salt and black pepper. Sprinkle flour evenly over each side, using your fingers to spread it across the surface.
- Cook chicken: Heat 15g butter in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken steaks and cook for about 2 1/2 minutes on each side until golden brown and just cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan, cover, and keep warm.
- Cook mushrooms: In the same pan, add the remaining 30g butter and increase the heat to high. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 4 minutes until they start to develop golden brown edges.
- Add garlic: Add the minced garlic along with a pinch of salt and pepper to the mushrooms. Cook for an additional minute until both the garlic and mushrooms are golden and fragrant.
- Deglaze pan: Pour in the white wine; it will bubble and steam. Cook for about 30 seconds while scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Continue until most of the wine evaporates and the alcohol smell dissipates.
- Make creamy sauce: Add the chicken stock and cook vigorously for 1 minute to reduce it mostly. Then pour in the heavy cream, lower the heat to medium, and simmer for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and taste the sauce. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
- Finish chicken in sauce: Return the chicken steaks to the pan with the creamy mushroom sauce. Warm through for 30 seconds, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Garnish with finely sliced chives. Serve the chicken and sauce directly from the pan for family-style serving, or plate individually with extra sauce spooned on top. Ideal sides include mashed potatoes or rice to enjoy the creamy sauce fully.
Notes
- Note 1: Using thinly sliced chicken steaks helps them cook quickly and evenly, preventing dryness.
- Note 2: If you prefer not to use white wine, substitute with additional low sodium chicken stock.
- Note 3: Full-fat heavy cream thickens better and creates a richer sauce.
- Note 4: Freshly grated Parmesan is key to dicing the sauce flavor; pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
- Note 5: Mashed potatoes or steamed rice work best as sides to soak up the creamy mushroom sauce.
