Creamy Chicken Mushroom
A creamy chicken mushroom dish is a delightful meal that brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your kitchen. This Creamy Chicken Mushroom recipe is not only quick and easy—ready in just 30 minutes—but it also pairs beautifully with rice or pasta for a versatile dinner option. With savory garlic, rich parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach, this low-carb, one-skillet recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 30 minutes, this dish fits perfectly into a busy schedule.
- One-Skillet Convenience: Enjoy easy cleanup as everything cooks in one skillet, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, cream, and parmesan creates a savory sauce that elevates the chicken and mushrooms.
- Low Carb Delight: With less than 5g of carbohydrates per serving, this meal fits well into a low-carb lifestyle.
- Versatile Pairing Options: Serve it with your favorite rice or pasta for a complete meal that can please any palate.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are the essential items needed to prepare your creamy chicken mushroom dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet or frying pan: Essential for cooking the chicken and creating the creamy sauce in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps in stirring the ingredients without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.
Ingredients
For this delicious Creamy Chicken Mushroom, you will need:
For the Chicken
- 6 pieces chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
For the Sauce
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 cup heavy cream or heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup shredded parmesan (or 1/2 c grated/finely shredded parmesan)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- salt and pepper to taste
For the Spinach
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 tbsp flour or cornstarch (optional) (if you want a thick creamy sauce)
How to Make Creamy Chicken Mushroom
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
In a skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Lightly fry the chicken thighs for about 4-5 minutes on each side until both sides are golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms
In the same pan, add the sliced cremini mushrooms. Cook until they become slightly soft but avoid overcooking them. Remove from heat and set aside alongside the chicken.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Using the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, and shredded parmesan cheese. Stir well while adjusting salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes until it reaches your desired creaminess. If you want a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with water before adding it to the sauce.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return both the cooked chicken and mushrooms to the skillet with the sauce. Simmer everything together for an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through. Finally, add spinach to combine just before removing from heat.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Serve your creamy chicken mushroom dish hot alongside your choice of rice or pasta. Enjoy this flavorful meal!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Mushroom
Serving Creamy Chicken Mushroom can elevate your dining experience. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides, making it perfect for any occasion.
With Rice
- Fluffy White Rice – A classic choice that soaks up the rich creamy sauce.
- Brown Rice – A healthier option with a nutty flavor that complements the dish well.
With Pasta
- Fettuccine – Its wide noodles catch the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Penne – The tubular shape holds the sauce, making every bite delicious.
As a Standalone Dish
- Garnished with Fresh Herbs – Sprinkling some chopped parsley or basil adds a fresh touch.
- With Crusty Bread – Perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce and mushrooms.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Mushroom
To achieve the best version of Creamy Chicken Mushroom, follow these tips for optimal results.
- Choose Quality Chicken – Use fresh, high-quality chicken thighs for better flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook Mushrooms – Sauté just until they’re tender to keep their flavor and texture intact.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste and modify salt and pepper as needed to enhance flavors.
- Use Heavy Cream – For a truly creamy sauce, opt for heavy cream instead of lighter alternatives.
- Add Spinach Last – Stir in the spinach at the end to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Mushroom
Pairing your Creamy Chicken Mushroom with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and buttery potatoes that make a satisfying pairing.
- Steamed Broccoli – A healthy green side that adds color and crunch.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection bring added texture and flavor.
- Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative that absorbs the sauce well.
- Mixed Green Salad – A light salad balances the richness of the main dish.
- Quinoa Pilaf – Nutritious quinoa seasoned with herbs pairs nicely with the creamy chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Chicken Mushroom, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect the taste and texture of your dish. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Under-seasoning the chicken: Make sure to season your chicken thighs well with salt and pepper before cooking. This enhances flavor and prevents blandness.
- Overcooking the mushrooms: Cook the cremini mushrooms just until they are slightly soft, as overcooking can result in a mushy texture. Keep an eye on them!
- Skipping the simmer time: Don’t rush the simmering process after adding the cream and cheese. Allowing this step ensures a rich, creamy sauce.
- Not adjusting the thickness: If your sauce is too thin, remember you can mix flour or cornstarch with water to thicken it up. Adjust to your desired consistency.
- Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using fresh garlic and spinach makes a noticeable difference in flavor compared to dried or frozen options. Always opt for fresh when possible.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Make sure to cool down the dish before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Mushroom
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Consider portioning into smaller containers for easy meal prep.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Mushroom
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20 minutes until warm throughout.
- Microwave: Use medium power, heating in short intervals, stirring between until heated through.
- Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Creamy Chicken Mushroom that may help enhance your cooking experience.
Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Absolutely! While cremini mushrooms work best, you can substitute with button or shiitake mushrooms based on your preference.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Creamy Chicken Mushroom is perfect for meal prep! Just store it properly in the fridge or freezer as mentioned above.
How can I make it dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and skip the parmesan cheese.
What can I serve with this dish?
This delicious creamy chicken mushroom pairs well with rice, pasta, or even steamed vegetables for a low-carb option.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Mushroom recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet gourmet. Give it a try and delight your family with this restaurant-quality dish!
Creamy Chicken Mushroom
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Description
Creamy Chicken Mushroom is a delightful dish that effortlessly combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. This quick and easy recipe is ready in just 30 minutes and features tender chicken thighs simmered in a luscious sauce of garlic, creamy parmesan, and fresh spinach. It pairs beautifully with rice or pasta, allowing you to customize your meal to suit any palate. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner option or an elegant entrée to impress guests, this one-skillet wonder delivers restaurant-quality taste right at home.
Ingredients
- 6 skinless boneless chicken thighs
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear chicken thighs until golden brown (4-5 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté sliced mushrooms in the same skillet until soft. Remove from pan.
- Melt butter in the skillet, add minced garlic, then stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, and parmesan. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Return chicken and mushrooms to the pan; simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through.
- Stir in fresh spinach just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 41g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 157mg
