Creamy Mushroom Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just half an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

• Rich, garlicky mushroom cream sauce that pairs beautifully with chicken.

• Uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.

• Elegant enough to serve for dinner parties but easy enough for a weeknight meal.

• Pairs well with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 large chicken breasts

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Flour for dredging

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 12 ounces mushrooms (cremini or white mushrooms), sliced

• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream

Directions

1. Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thin cutlets. Season with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour.

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden, then set aside.

3. Add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add mushrooms and Italian seasoning. Cook until the mushrooms release liquid, it evaporates, and they develop a golden sear. Remove mushrooms and set aside.

4. Add garlic, chicken broth, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard to the pan. Stir well, dissolving the mustard, and simmer until reduced by half (3–4 minutes).

5. Stir in cream, then return the chicken and mushrooms to the skillet. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Swap chicken breasts for boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.

• Use different mushrooms such as shiitake or portobello for a deeper flavor.

• Add a splash of white wine when deglazing the pan for extra richness.

• Stir in a handful of spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added color and nutrition.

• Make it lighter by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving at high heat, as it may dry out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work very well in this recipe and add more juiciness.

What type of mushrooms work best?

Cremini and white mushrooms are classic, but shiitake or portobello mushrooms give a deeper flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead and reheat gently before serving. The sauce may thicken, so add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, since the chicken is dredged in flour. Use gluten-free flour to make it gluten-free.

Can I freeze creamy mushroom chicken?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Note that the cream sauce may slightly separate when thawed.

What can I serve with creamy mushroom chicken?

It pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute olive oil or dairy-free butter and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and no longer be pink in the center.

Can I add cheese to the sauce?

Yes, a handful of Parmesan cheese will add extra richness and depth to the sauce.

Can I make this in the oven instead of the stovetop?

The stovetop method is best, but you can finish the dish in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes if preferred.

Conclusion

Creamy mushroom chicken is the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. With tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a silky cream sauce, it’s a meal that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together quickly at home. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.