Welcome to your new favorite weeknight dinner: this incredibly simple, yet exquisitely delicious, Creamy Mushroom Chicken recipe. Forget complicated preparations and lengthy cook times; this dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, delivering tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a rich, savory mushroom sauce. It’s the perfect solution for busy evenings, offering a comforting and satisfying meal without sacrificing flavor or health. This recipe transforms humble ingredients into a restaurant-quality experience right on your stovetop.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Creamy Mushroom Chicken
This Creamy Mushroom Chicken isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a culinary lifesaavor for anyone seeking both convenience and gourmet taste. Here’s why this dish will quickly become a cherished part of your recipe collection:
- Effortless Stovetop Cooking: Say goodbye to heating up your entire kitchen! This entire creamy chicken dish is prepared in a single skillet on your stovetop, eliminating the need for an oven and simplifying cleanup. It’s the ultimate one-pan wonder.
- Simple Ingredients, Rich Flavors: You’ll be amazed at how a few basic pantry staples can create such a profound and luxurious flavor profile. This recipe proves that delicious doesn’t have to mean complex, delivering a rich, creamy sauce that tastes like it took hours, but only requires minutes.
- Perfect for Busy Weeknights: With just 10 minutes of active prep time and a total cook time under 30 minutes, this recipe is designed for those hectic evenings. Whether it’s back-to-school season, a demanding workday, or simply a night when you want a quick, homemade meal, this creamy mushroom chicken fits the bill perfectly.
- A Timeless Family Favorite: This recipe has been a staple in countless kitchens for over 15 years, loved by families for its comforting appeal and consistent deliciousness. Its versatility and satisfying taste make it a meal everyone can agree on.
- Health-Conscious Comfort: Unlike many creamy dishes that pack on excessive calories, this version offers all the indulgence without the guilt. It’s a smart choice for those looking for a wholesome yet flavorful dinner option that aligns with a balanced lifestyle.
While many variations of the classic chicken and mushroom recipe exist, this particular rendition stands out for its simplicity, reduced calorie count, and proven ability to deliver mouth-watering results every time.
Essential Ingredients for Creamy Mushroom Chicken
Crafting this delightful Creamy Mushroom Chicken requires a handful of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create this comforting meal:
- Chicken: For the most tender and flavorful results, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are highly recommended. Their natural richness and moisture content stand up beautifully to the creamy sauce. However, if you prefer a leaner option, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can also be used; simply adjust cooking time to prevent over-drying. Ensure your chicken is cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Mushrooms: The star of the sauce! Cremini mushrooms (also known as baby bellas) are ideal for their earthy flavor and firm texture, which holds up well during cooking. White button mushrooms are a readily available and equally delicious alternative. For a more gourmet touch, consider using shiitake mushrooms, which add a deeper, umami-rich dimension to the dish.
- Chicken Broth: This forms the foundational liquid for our creamy sauce, imparting a savory depth. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to better control the overall seasoning of your dish.
- Olive Oil and Butter: A combination of these two fats provides the best of both worlds. Olive oil offers a healthy cooking medium, while a touch of butter adds unparalleled richness and a silky mouthfeel to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Flour: All-purpose flour acts as a thickening agent, creating the luscious, velvety texture of the mushroom cream sauce. It helps bind the liquids and flavors together beautifully.
- Optional Milk: A splash of milk (whole milk or half-and-half works best) can be added at the end to enhance the creaminess and lighten the sauce’s color and texture.
- Seasonings: A simple yet essential blend of salt and freshly ground black pepper is crucial for highlighting the natural flavors of the chicken and mushrooms. Additionally, consider optional spices like a pinch of cardamom powder and dry oregano for an extra layer of aromatic complexity.
- Onion: One medium onion, thinly sliced, will be sautéed to provide an aromatic base, adding a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
Remember, the full measurements and detailed instructions are provided in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Mushroom Chicken
Creating this delicious creamy mushroom chicken is remarkably straightforward. Follow these easy steps to bring this quick and flavorful dinner to your table:
- Sauté the Chicken: Begin by melting the butter with the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken to the hot skillet, spreading it into an even layer. Season generously with salt and black pepper. If using optional spices like oregano and cardamom, sprinkle them over the chicken now. Stir and cook, ensuring the chicken browns lightly on all sides and is no longer pink. Allow any released moisture to reduce slightly, intensifying the chicken’s flavor.
- Add Onion: Once the chicken is beautifully seared, add the sliced onion to the skillet. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion begins to soften and become translucent, releasing its sweet aroma into the pan.
- Incorporate Mushrooms and Flour: Now, add the thickly sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Stir them in with the chicken and onions, letting them cook down and release their moisture. Season the mushrooms lightly as they cook. Once they have softened, sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the entire mixture. Stir diligently for about a minute, ensuring the flour is thoroughly combined with the fats and coats all ingredients, cooking out any raw flour taste.
- Build the Sauce: Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps and create a smooth sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. If you desire an even creamier consistency, add the optional milk at this stage, stirring it in until fully incorporated.
- Finish Cooking: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the creamy mushroom chicken simmer for another 3-4 minutes. This final simmer ensures the chicken is cooked through, the flavors meld together perfectly, and the sauce reaches its optimal creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot and enjoy!
For detailed measurements and a printable version of these instructions, please refer to the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Mushroom Chicken
Achieving a truly outstanding creamy mushroom chicken is easy with these helpful tips and tricks:
- Flavor Base with Fats: While you can certainly make this recipe with just olive oil, incorporating a tablespoon of butter alongside the oil dramatically enhances the richness and depth of flavor in your sauce. The butter adds a luxurious creaminess that is truly irresistible.
- Mushroom Variety: Don’t limit yourself! While cremini (baby bella) mushrooms are fantastic, feel free to use any type of mushroom you have on hand, whether fresh or canned. White button mushrooms are a great everyday choice, and for a more elegant and intense flavor, consider exotic varieties like shiitake.
- Elevate with Spices: Beyond salt and pepper, a pinch of cardamom powder and dry oregano can elevate this dish with a unique aromatic twist. Experiment with other complementary spices like a dash of garlic powder, thyme, or a hint of smoked paprika to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
- Perfecting Sauce Consistency: The secret to a perfect creamy sauce lies in its consistency. After cooking, let the skillet rest for 2-3 minutes. If the sauce is too thin, dissolve about 1 teaspoon of flour in a tablespoon of cold water or milk, then gradually stir this slurry into the simmering sauce until it thickens to your desired consistency. If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a splash more broth, milk, or water until it loosens up.
- Proper Chicken Browning: Don’t rush the initial searing of the chicken. Allowing the chicken to brown well creates a delicious fond (the flavorful browned bits) at the bottom of the pan, which will dissolve into the sauce, adding incredible depth of flavor.
- Fresh Herbs for Finish: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, chives, or dill just before serving can add a vibrant burst of color and a refreshing aromatic finish to your creamy chicken dish.
Storage and Reheating Creamy Mushroom Chicken
This creamy mushroom chicken makes fantastic leftovers, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner the next day.
- Refrigeration: Allow any leftover chicken casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be safely refrigerated for up to 4-5 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and warm gently until heated through, stirring occasionally. For stovetop reheating, add the leftovers to a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to rehydrate the sauce if it has thickened too much in the refrigerator. Stir frequently until warmed thoroughly. Avoid overheating to maintain the chicken’s tenderness and prevent the sauce from breaking.
Delicious Ways to Serve Your Creamy Mushroom Chicken
This versatile creamy mushroom chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, allowing you to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some of our favorite serving suggestions:
- Rice and Pasta: Serve this comforting dish over fluffy Basmati rice, wide egg noodles, or even a creamy risotto. The rice or pasta soaks up the rich mushroom sauce, creating a truly harmonious bite.
- Vegetable Sides: Complement the richness of the chicken with a fresh, vibrant vegetable. Steamed or roasted green beans, air fryer frozen broccoli, or air fryer frozen asparagus are excellent choices. For a Mediterranean twist, serve it alongside Mediterranean roasted vegetables.
- Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes or crispy roasted potatoes are classic accompaniments that perfectly absorb the savory sauce.
- Crusty Bread: Don’t forget a warm, crusty baguette or a slice of garlic bread to sop up every last drop of that incredible sauce!
- Unique Pairings: For an unexpected but delightful combination, try serving it with slightly sweet and nutty Butternut Squash Ravioli in Butter Sauce. The flavors meld together beautifully for an elevated dining experience.
- Sweet Finish: End your hearty meal with a delightful dessert like this Red Velvet Bundt Cake for a truly satisfying culinary journey.
Creative Variations for Your Mushroom Chicken Casserole
This creamy mushroom chicken recipe is wonderfully adaptable, making it easy to customize to your preferences or dietary needs. Explore these variations to make it uniquely yours:
- Boost the Garlic: For an extra layer of pungent flavor, add a minced clove of fresh garlic or a teaspoon of garlic powder when sautéing the onions. It will infuse the sauce with an irresistible aroma.
- Fresh Herb Garnish: Elevate both the appearance and taste by garnishing the finished dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Chopped parsley, dill, or thinly sliced green onions not only add a pop of color but also a fresh, herbaceous note.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this a delightful gluten-free casserole, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of cornstarch. Dissolve the cornstarch in a small amount of cold water before adding it to the simmering sauce to prevent lumps.
- Richer & Creamier Sauce: If you desire an even more decadent sauce, consider incorporating heavier dairy options. A splash of heavy cream, a dollop of cream cheese, or a spoonful of sour cream can make the sauce extra luxurious. Alternatively, for a classic comfort food twist, a can of cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup can be used as a shortcut, though it will alter the flavor profile.
- Cheesy Indulgence: For cheese lovers, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, or Gruyere cheese over the top of the dish once it’s cooked. If you desire a golden, bubbly crust, transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
- Add More Vegetables: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking until wilted, or add frozen peas or corn for added color and nutrition. Sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers can also add a delightful burst of flavor.
- Spice it Up: For a hint of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with your seasonings.
Related Chicken Recipes to Explore
If you’re a fan of comforting and easy chicken dishes, you’ll love exploring these other delightful recipes from our kitchen:
- Chicken Hash Brown Casserole: This is the epitome of comfort food – an incredibly easy chicken and potato casserole that comes together in minutes, perfect for busy weeknights and a family favorite.
- Chicken and Mashed Potato: Experience the heartwarming essence of chicken pot pie blended with the luscious creaminess of mashed potatoes in this one-pot wonder, a signature recipe shared by a dear friend.
- Chicken Broccoli Ziti: For those who adore broccoli casseroles, this creamy and utterly comforting pasta dish with chicken and broccoli is a must-try for your next meal.
- Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole: A wholesome and hearty meal that promises to be a hit with the entire family, ready in under an hour for a perfect weeknight solution.
- Olive Garden Chicken Scampi: Recreate the creamy and delicious flavors of Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi at home, sans the wine. Tender chicken in a rich sauce topped with lightly sautéed vegetables, this 30-minute meal is so good, you’ll want it every day.
- Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe: Dive into the vibrant world of Indian spices with this authentic Chicken Tikka Masala. Featuring marinated chicken in a creamy, richly flavored sauce, it’s a dish bursting with aromatic goodness.
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Recommended Kitchen Equipment
Having the right tools can make all the difference in your cooking experience. Here’s the essential equipment for preparing this creamy mushroom chicken:
- Large Skillet: A high-quality, large skillet or frying pan is crucial for this one-pan recipe. It provides ample space for searing the chicken, sautéing vegetables, and simmering the sauce, ensuring even cooking and optimal flavor development.
Chicken Mushroom Casserole
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Ingredients
- 5-6 large boneless chicken thighs /breasts fat trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes.
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- Salt and Pepper to taste.
- ½ lb mushroom – thickly sliced.
- 1 medium onion sliced
- 3 Tablespoons all purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
Optional:
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder
- ¼ teaspoon dry oregano
Instructions
- In a large pan over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add the chicken and stir, seasoning with salt and pepper, and optional oregano and cardamom.
- Continue stirring until the chicken turns white and any excess water has reduced.
- Add the sliced onion and stir for 2 minutes, allowing it to soften.
- Add the mushrooms and stir, cooking until they soften.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and mix well until no visible flour remains, coating all ingredients.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir. Let it simmer for a minute or two to thicken, then add the milk if using.
- Continue cooking the chicken for another 3-4 minutes to ensure it is thoroughly cooked and the flavors are well combined.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version of this recipe, use cornstarch as a thickener instead of flour.
- Please refer to the “Expert Tips” section above for additional valuable cooking advice and insights.
- Please check the nutrition disclaimer policy for important information regarding dietary values.
Nutrition
This recipe was first published on April 5, 2016, and was last updated on September 2, 2023, with important tips, clearer step-by-step instructions, and improved readability to enhance your cooking experience.
My Personal Journey with This Family Favorite
As a mother, watching my children grow and develop their unique personalities is one of life’s greatest joys. My youngest, who was just 5 years old in 2016, is a truly special character. Being the last grandchild on both sides of our family, he often felt a strong desire to grow up quickly and participate in “big kid” activities, like using knives or fetching the mail independently – tasks his older brothers had already mastered.
This eagerness manifested in an incredibly helpful spirit. The moment his dad would arrive home with shopping bags, he’d be the first to rush over, eager to assist. Taking out the trash and recycling became a cherished responsibility, and he would get genuinely upset if he didn’t get to contribute. He embodied the spirit of wanting to be a valuable part of the family.
One memorable spring break, which also happened to be my birthday week, I woke to hushed activity in the kitchen. Peeking in, I discovered him perched on a chair, meticulously preparing breakfast for everyone! He had already poured tea and was visibly annoyed that I had woken up before his grand birthday surprise was fully revealed. It was an incredibly sweet gesture, and my heart melted at his thoughtfulness.
Beyond my momentary fright over him handling boiling water, I was overwhelmingly proud of his determination and his quiet efforts to keep his surprise under wraps. He truly poured his heart into that moment. It’s this same adventurous spirit that surprises me in other aspects of life, especially at the dinner table.
This particular child is usually adventurous and willing to try anything Mom and Dad are eating. However, when I first made this creamy mushroom chicken, I was convinced my children, who typically shy away from mushrooms, wouldn’t touch it. So, I prepared a separate batch of my oven-baked fried chicken for them. To my absolute astonishment, my youngest gravitated towards the saucy mushroom chicken, while his older brothers happily devoured the fried chicken!
The bottom line is, this creamy mushroom chicken recipe is bound to be a hit. And if you have a little one with an adventurous palate like mine, or even one who’s a picky eater, you might just find them enjoying this comforting dish as much as we do.