One-Pan Creamy Mushroom Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One-Pan Creamy Mushroom Chicken is a perfect balance of convenience and elegance. It's quick to prepare, requires only one pan, and is packed with savory flavors. The crispy chicken paired with a silky cream sauce makes it irresistible. Plus, you can serve it with various sides like rice or mashed potatoes, making it adaptable to any meal.

Ingredients

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

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 small onion, thinly sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup chicken broth

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and black pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and garlic, cooking until softened and aromatic, about 2 minutes.

3. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are tender and browned, about 5 minutes.

4. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the heavy cream. Add the dried thyme and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. If using, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the chicken and sauce. Allow the dish to simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the chicken is fully coated and the sauce is thick and creamy.

6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

• Yield: Serves 4

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add spinach: For a burst of color and added nutrition, toss in a handful of fresh spinach just before serving. It will wilt beautifully in the creamy sauce.

• Use different mushrooms: Feel free to use different types of mushrooms like portobello or shiitake for more complex flavor.

• Gluten-free option: This dish is naturally gluten-free, but if you want to serve it with a gluten-free side, try rice or mashed potatoes.

• Add white wine: For extra depth, splash a bit of white wine into the skillet with the chicken broth, allowing it to reduce before adding the cream.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the dish on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a little bit of extra cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe and will add extra richness.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time and combine them when ready to serve.

3. Can I use a dairy-free alternative for the cream?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or any dairy-free cream alternative.

4. Can I freeze One-Pan Creamy Mushroom Chicken?

Freezing isn’t recommended because the cream sauce may separate when thawed. However, you can freeze the chicken alone, and reheat with freshly prepared sauce.

5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked.

6. Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried thyme?

Absolutely! Fresh thyme will provide a more aromatic flavor. Use 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme in place of the dried version.

7. Is this recipe spicy?

No, this recipe is not spicy. However, you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.

8. What sides go well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles are great options to serve alongside the creamy chicken.

9. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to increase the veggie content.

10. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it longer to reduce, or add a slurry made from cornstarch and water.

Conclusion

One-Pan Creamy Mushroom Chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The combination of seared chicken, tender mushrooms, and a creamy, rich sauce makes this a meal to remember. Whether you're serving it for a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress!