If you are searching for a comforting and elegant dinner that really impresses without any fuss, this Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. Rich, velvety sauce infused with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese envelops tender, golden chicken thighs and earthy mushrooms, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that hits every note of cozy deliciousness. It is a perfect weeknight crowd-pleaser or a special occasion treat that feels upscale while using straightforward ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe requires simple, essential ingredients that each bring their own magic to the dish. The chicken provides a juicy foundation, while mushrooms add a meaty, umami punch. Fresh herbs brighten the sauce, and the Parmesan cheese gives it that luscious, cheesy finish.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Choose these for tenderness and rich flavor that holds up beautifully with the sauce.
- Cornstarch: Helps create a light coating that crisps up the chicken and thickens the sauce just right.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance every bite.
- Oil for frying: Use a neutral oil to get a perfect golden sear on the chicken.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the mushroom base and brings out the garlic’s aroma.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with fragrant depth and warmth.
- Cremini or button mushrooms: Their tender, earthy character is key for that comforting mushroom flavor.
- Dry white wine or chicken stock: Used to deglaze the pan, lifting up all the delicious browned bits from searing.
- Chicken stock: The base of the creamy sauce, creating a savory backdrop.
- Heavy cream: Makes the sauce rich and silky smooth for that indulgent finish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty tang that balances the creaminess perfectly.
- Soy sauce: Boosts umami and deepens flavor complexity.
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped: Injects freshness and vibrant color.
- Fresh rosemary, finely chopped: Brings piney, aromatic notes to the sauce.
- Fresh thyme, finely chopped: Offers subtle earthy undertones that complement mushrooms beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by mixing the cornstarch, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Pat your chicken thighs dry to ensure a crisp exterior, then lightly coat them in the seasoning mix. This step is crucial—it locks in moisture for juicy chicken and sets you up for a nicely caramelized crust.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat up your oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken thighs in the pan carefully, letting them sear undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes per side until they’re gloriously golden brown and cooked through. Once they reach that perfect color and texture, remove the chicken and set it aside. The browned bits left behind in the pan? Those are flavor gold for the sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
Using the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in minced garlic and sauté it until fragrant, about one minute—this simple step perfumes the dish beautifully. Next, add your sliced mushrooms. Let them cook down until they release their moisture and turn a warm golden brown. This transformation develops deep, savory notes that are essential for the dish’s soul.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan
Pour in the dry white wine (or an extra splash of chicken stock if you prefer no alcohol) and use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those irresistible browned bits stuck to the pan. This technique brings incredible depth and complexity to your sauce. Let this mixture simmer until it reduces slightly, about 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
Now it is time to add in the chicken stock, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, soy sauce, and the freshly chopped herbs—parsley, rosemary, and thyme. Give everything a good stir and allow it to gently simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken and meld the flavors. The sauce will become luxuriously creamy with the perfect balance of savory, herby, and cheesy notes.
Step 6: Combine & Serve
Return the seared chicken thighs to the pan, nestling them in the creamy mushroom sauce. Let everything cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes so the chicken soaks up those wonderful flavors. Serve this delightful dish piping hot over your favorite pasta, fluffy rice, or smooth mashed potatoes for a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable.
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a light dusting of additional Parmesan cheese on top right before serving to add vibrancy and enhance the cheesy richness of the sauce. A few rosemary sprigs can also make for an elegant finishing touch, tempting your senses before the first bite.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides that soak up the sauce perfectly. Creamy mashed potatoes offer a classic combo, while buttered noodles or steamed jasmine rice are wonderful options to complement the luxurious sauce without overpowering it. For added freshness, consider a crisp green salad or lightly roasted vegetables alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn this dish into a creamy mushroom chicken skillet dinner served family-style in the pan for a rustic, welcoming feel. Alternatively, shred the cooked chicken after simmering in the sauce and serve it on toasted ciabatta as an indulgent open-faced sandwich. You can also make individual servings in ramekins topped with melted mozzarella and broiled until bubbly and golden for a mini gratin effect.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools; just gently reheat with a splash of stock or cream to loosen it back up.
Freezing
This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then portion out into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that heavy cream-based sauces might slightly separate upon thawing but will come back together with careful reheating and stirring.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a touch of chicken stock or cream to restore the sauce’s silky texture. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short intervals until heated through, stirring to ensure even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine, but be mindful not to overcook them since they are leaner and can dry out more easily. Searing and simmering gently in the sauce will help keep them moist.
Is it necessary to use white wine in this recipe?
White wine adds a lovely acidity and depth, but if you prefer, you can substitute it with extra chicken stock to keep it non-alcoholic. The flavor will still be rich and tasty!
What type of mushrooms are best?
Cremini or button mushrooms are ideal for their mild earthiness and texture, but you can also experiment with baby bella or shiitake mushrooms for added depth and variety.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap out heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and replace butter with a dairy-free margarine or oil. Just keep in mind the flavor will be different but still delicious.
How can I make the sauce thicker if needed?
If the sauce isn’t thick enough, you can stir in a slurry made from cornstarch and cold water, then simmer gently until it reaches your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that truly feels like a warm hug plated on your dinner table. The effortless combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, fresh herbs, and rich sauce creates a meal that you will want to make again and again. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and watch it quickly become a beloved favorite in your home as well.
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Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy Mushroom Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish featuring tender, pan-seared chicken thighs smothered in a luscious creamy mushroom sauce made with fresh herbs, garlic, white wine, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this recipe combines savory and aromatic elements for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp oil (for frying)
Sauce and Mushroom Mixture
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- ½ cup dry white wine (or extra chicken stock)
- 1 cup chicken stock
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then lightly coat them evenly with the cornstarch mixture to create a slight crust when seared.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Cook the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and turn golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Let it simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until the wine reduces slightly and the alcohol cooks off.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the chicken stock, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, soy sauce, fresh parsley, rosemary, and thyme. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Combine & Serve: Return the seared chicken thighs to the pan, spooning the sauce over them to coat. Simmer everything together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors and heat the chicken through. Serve the creamy mushroom chicken hot, ideally over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream and butter with coconut cream and olive oil respectively, and omit Parmesan.
- You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs, but reduce cooking time to avoid dryness.
- Dry white wine adds brightness but can be substituted with extra chicken stock for a non-alcoholic version.
- Fresh herbs enhance flavor, but dried herbs can be used in smaller quantities.
- Serve with your choice of sides such as mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed rice to soak up the creamy sauce.
