Some nights call for a simple yet deeply satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen. That’s where this Creamy Mushroom Chicken Skillet comes in.
Tender, juicy chicken is pan-seared to golden perfection and then smothered in a rich, velvety mushroom sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and a splash of cream. Every bite is hearty, comforting, and packed with deep, savory flavors. Best of all, this dish comes together in under 40 minutes, making it an ideal go-to for busy weeknights or when you just want something delicious with minimal effort.
This one-pan dish pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. Whether you’re cooking for the family or just yourself, this skillet meal delivers on taste and texture without a complicated ingredient list.
What You’ll Need to Make This Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Skillet
This dish is built around simple ingredients that come together to create an incredibly rich and flavorful sauce. Here are the key players:
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs – Chicken breasts stay lean and tender, while thighs bring a bit more richness and flavor. Either works well!
- Mushrooms – Cremini, button, or shiitake mushrooms add an earthy depth to the creamy sauce.
- Heavy Cream – The base of the sauce, giving it that signature smooth and velvety texture.
- Garlic and Herbs – Fresh garlic, thyme, and parsley bring the dish to life, adding layers of aroma and flavor.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom Chicken in One Pan
- Sear the Chicken – Heat a skillet with a little oil and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown. Once it’s cooked through, set it aside.
- Sauté the Mushrooms – In the same pan, add butter and cook the mushrooms until they’re soft and golden. The key is to let them brown properly to bring out their full flavor.
- Make the Sauce – Add garlic, then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Bring It All Together – Return the chicken to the pan and let it soak up the creamy sauce for a few minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy – Garnish with fresh herbs and serve it hot with your favorite sides.
Ways to Make It Your Own
This dish is versatile, so feel free to tweak it based on what you love! Here are some easy ways to customize it:
- Cheesy Upgrade – Stir in grated Parmesan at the end for an extra layer of savory richness.
- Dairy-Free Alternative – Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
- Add Some Heat – A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce gives the dish a spicy kick.
- Mix Up the Herbs – Fresh rosemary, sage, or basil can bring a different depth of flavor to the sauce.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
This skillet chicken is a go-to for a reason. It’s creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Here’s why it never fails:
- Rich, Savory Sauce – The creamy mushroom sauce coats every bite, making the dish feel indulgent without being heavy.
- One-Pan Simplicity – Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, making this a stress-free dinner option.
- Balanced and Filling – With protein from the chicken and fiber from the mushrooms, this meal is satisfying and wholesome.
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What to Serve with Creamy Mushroom Chicken
While this dish is delicious on its own, adding the right sides takes it up a notch. Here are some great pairings:
- Garlic Butter Rice – The creamy sauce soaks beautifully into a bed of warm, buttery rice.
- Crispy Roasted Potatoes – Golden, crispy potatoes add a satisfying crunch to contrast the creamy chicken.
- Steamed Green Beans – A simple and fresh side that balances out the richness of the dish.
- Buttery Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious sauce.
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Skillet
Equipment
- Large skillet For searing the chicken and making the sauce
- Wooden spoon For stirring the sauce
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for extra juiciness
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms cremini or button mushrooms work best
- 1 cup heavy cream for the sauce
- 2 cloves garlic minced
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet with oil over medium heat and sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Add butter to the same skillet and sauté the mushrooms for 5 minutes until soft and browned.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the top, and let it cook for 5 more minutes until heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Try adding a splash of white wine for extra depth of flavor.
- Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version.
- Pair with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
Carrie is a food writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked for some of the biggest names in the food industry, including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and Martha Stewart Living.
As the Editor in Chief of IntroChicago.com, Carrie oversees all of the content on the site. She also manages the team of contributing writers and editors, who help to create delicious recipes, helpful tips, and informative articles that you’ll find on the site.
A native of the Chicago area, Carrie is passionate about all things food. She loves trying new restaurants and experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen. She’s also a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, so she knows a thing or two about food!
Sherry Eiler
Friday 7th of March 2025
Every bite was pure comfort—loved it!
Frank Byrd
Friday 7th of March 2025
Simple, quick, and seriously tasty!