Creamy mushroom chicken recipe

This creamy mushroom chicken recipe features incredibly tender pan-seared chicken bathed in a savory garlic mushroom sauce. It is remarkably quick and easy to prepare, so you can have a delicious meal on your table in just 30 minutes.

The reason why you should try this creamy mushroom chicken

Creamy chicken recipes are among my readers’ top favorites, and it is easy to understand why they are so popular. I always aim to keep these recipes simple without any extravagant ingredients, and this creamy mushroom chicken perfectly exemplifies that approach. The dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a refined family meal.

Ingredients for this mushroom chicken recipe

Chicken: My secret for tender chicken is to cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise so that they cook more quickly and remain tender. You can also pound them thin if you prefer a thinner cut.

Flour: We use flour for dredging the chicken, which helps to form a crisp, flavorful crust on the outside. This step enhances the texture of the finished dish.

Olive oil and butter: Olive oil and butter are combined for sautéing the chicken and for creating the base of the sauce. They work together to add richness and depth of flavor.

Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms, also known as baby bellas or white mushrooms, provide an earthy, robust flavor to the recipe. You can use whichever variety is available at your local store.

Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning is a convenient blend of dried herbs that adds a fragrant and balanced flavor in one jar. It simplifies the seasoning process without compromising taste.

Garlic: fresh garlic is essential for this dish; it adds a strong, aromatic kick. If you are a garlic lover, you can use even more than the recipe suggests, and using a garlic press makes mincing a breeze.

Chicken broth: Chicken broth is used to infuse the sauce with a savory, rich flavor. It helps to create a well-rounded and deep-tasting sauce.

Lemon juice: A splash of lemon juice adds a touch of acidity that brightens the overall flavor of the dish. This subtle citrus note enhances the richness of the sauce.

Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard is a tried-and-true way to add extra depth of flavor to the sauce. It provides complexity without overpowering the other ingredients.

Heavy cream: Heavy cream is added to create a luxurious, velvety texture in the sauce. It makes the dish rich and indulgent, tying all the flavors together beautifully.

Step-by-step instructions

Learn how to make creamy mushroom chicken with our detailed guide, complete with step-by-step photos. This overview walks you through the process visually, and the recipe card below provides the full list of ingredients and comprehensive instructions.

Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise, then season them and lightly dust them with flour. Sear the chicken cutlets in a skillet on both sides until they develop a golden crust. Transfer the chicken to a plate, and in the same skillet, sauté the mushrooms until they are tender and aromatic.

Remove the mushrooms from the pan and set them aside. Then add the garlic, chicken broth, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard to the skillet, and let the mixture simmer until it reduces. Next, stir in the cream along with the reserved mushrooms and seared chicken. Continue cooking until the chicken is fully done, and finish by seasoning with salt and pepper.

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Helpful tips

I do not recommend substituting the cream with half-and-half or milk because the sauce will become thinner and may curdle under high heat. However, if you want to experiment, I suggest reading the comments, as many readers have successfully modified the recipe for their dietary needs.

I personally love adding Dijon mustard to recipes like this to enhance the flavor, though it is not absolutely essential. If you are out of Dijon mustard, you can simply leave it out without affecting the overall taste too much.

Another option you might consider is replacing the chicken broth with dry white wine if you have it available. I recommend trying Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay, as these wines add a pleasant acidity that complements the dish beautifully.

You may also choose to use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a richer flavor. Keep in mind that if you make this substitution, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the meat is fully cooked and tender.

How to store this creamy mushroom chicken

Leftovers of the creamy mushroom chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days in an airtight container without any issues. Freezing this dish is not recommended because dairy-based sauces often do not thaw properly. I advise reheating any leftovers gently over low heat in a small saucepan to prevent the sauce from separating.