Creamy Chicken And Mushroom Skillet

Name: Creamy Chicken And Mushroom Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups sliced mushrooms; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Cozy Home Plates

I absolutely love this Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Skillet recipe! It’s the perfect balance of flavors, with tender chicken and earthy mushrooms enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. Every bite feels indulgent, yet it's surprisingly easy to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The best part? It all comes together in just one skillet, which means less cleanup for me! Whether served over rice or pasta, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:33:36.095Z

When I first combined chicken and mushrooms in a creamy sauce, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The savory depth of the mushrooms paired perfectly with the succulent chicken, and then adding cream just took it to a whole new level. I experimented with different herbs and spices, but I found that a touch of thyme and a hint of garlic made all the difference.

One tip I’ve learned is to sear the chicken well before adding anything else. This not only locks in flavors but also helps create a beautifully golden crust. Trust me, it adds an amazing texture to the dish that everyone will rave about!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce that's full of flavor
Tender chicken and earthy mushrooms come together beautifully
One skillet means less mess and easy cleanup

The Importance of Proper Searing

Searing the chicken properly is crucial for flavor and texture. When you place the seasoned chicken breasts in a hot skillet with olive oil, the high heat creates a Maillard reaction, resulting in a delicious brown crust. Aim for a golden color on each side after about 6-7 minutes to lock in juices and enhance flavor. If the chicken sticks, don’t force it; wait a little longer until it releases naturally from the pan.

Using a heavy-bottomed skillet is essential for even heat distribution. This will help prevent hot spots, which can lead to uneven cooking. If you have a cast-iron skillet, it’s an excellent choice for this recipe, as it maintains heat well and allows for a perfect sear.

Flavor Enhancements

In addition to the thyme, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic and mushrooms, deglazing the pan for extra depth. Scrape up any browned bits; this is where concentrated flavors will develop. If desired, swap the thyme for fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for a different aromatic experience.

Don’t shy away from experimenting with different mushrooms too. While standard button or cremini mushrooms work beautifully, adding shiitake or portobello can elevate the dish with distinct umami flavors. Sauté them until nicely browned, as this step significantly enhances their taste and integrates well with the creamy sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld together over time, making leftovers nearly as delightful as the first serving. Just be cautious not to exceed this timeframe; chicken should always be consumed while still fresh.

To reheat, gently warm the dish in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the desired consistency. This simple reheating method will keep the chicken tender and the sauce luxurious.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious meal:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups sliced mushrooms
1 cup heavy cream
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure all ingredients are ready before you start cooking for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up this Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Skillet:

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and mushrooms, cooking for another 5 minutes or until the mushrooms are browned and tender.

Add Cream and Chicken

Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the thyme over the mixture. Stir well, then return the seared chicken to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve over your choice of rice or pasta. Enjoy your homemade creamy chicken and mushroom skillet!

Enjoy this creamy delight with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce right before serving. It adds a wonderful depth and richness.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Skillet is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various sides. For a complete meal, serve it over fluffy rice or fettuccine pasta; the cream sauce clings beautifully to each bite, enhancing every mouthful. You can also try it with mashed potatoes or even zoodles for a low-carb option.

For a pop of color and freshness, consider a side of steamed green beans or a crisp salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the vinaigrette balances the richness of the creamy sauce, creating a well-rounded meal that is both satisfying and elegant.

Dietary Adjustments

Should you need to make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Keep in mind that coconut cream will add a mild coconut flavor, which can complement the dish if you enjoy that profile.

For a healthier lean protein option, you can replace chicken breasts with skinless chicken thighs. They have a slightly higher fat content, which can contribute to a juicier final result, especially when cooked properly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Absolutely! While cremini and button mushrooms work great, you can also try shiitake or portobello for different flavors.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a dairy-free cream alternative.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead, just reheat gently on the stove when ready to serve.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop for best results.