There’s something truly satisfying about a creamy, flavorful dish that comes together effortlessly. Creamy Mushroom Chicken is the perfect combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious sauce that’s sure to impress family and guests alike. This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. With minimal preparation and simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in under an hour. Let’s dive into the recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 200g (2 cups) mushrooms, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or low-fat cream for a lighter option)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried thyme or a few fresh thyme sprigs
- Optional: 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation Steps
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken thighs or breasts generously with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Cook the Mushrooms:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the sliced mushrooms.
- Sauté the mushrooms for 5-7 minutes until they become tender and golden brown. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Add the minced garlic to the mushrooms and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- Deglaze the skillet by pouring in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor.
- Reduce the heat slightly and stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and thyme. If desired, add the grated Parmesan cheese for a richer sauce.
- Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Combine and Cook:
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, placing it in the creamy mushroom sauce.
- Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken and reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until it is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Presentation
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a serving dish and pour the creamy mushroom sauce over the top.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Serve immediately with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or roasted vegetables. For a lighter option, pair it with a crisp green salad.
Creamy Mushroom Chicken is a dish that combines simplicity with indulgence. Its velvety sauce and perfectly cooked chicken make it a versatile recipe that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this recipe will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this creamy classic!