Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting and indulgent meal that’s packed with flavor and texture, this Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Tender chicken breasts seared to perfection meet a luscious sauce brimming with mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and fresh spinach, all embraced by a silky Parmesan cream base. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of savory, tangy, and earthy notes that feel downright luxurious, yet it’s surprisingly easy to pull together. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing guests, this dish hits all the right spots and is destined to become a beloved staple.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple yet carefully chosen ingredients is the secret to the magic in this Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe. Every item plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color that makes this dish stand out so beautifully.

  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour: Used for dredging the chicken to give it a light, crispy coating before cooking.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth and vibrant color to the flour mixture.
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme, divided: Offers a gentle herbal fragrance that complements the creamy sauce.
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano, divided: Brings a warm, earthy note to season both the chicken and the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt, divided: Essential for drawing out the chicken’s flavors and seasoning the entire dish.
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper, divided: Adds just the right amount of heat and a sharp bite.
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes: A pinch of spicy excitement, adjustable to your heat preference.
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half: Ensures quick, even cooking and tender bites.
  • 4 Tablespoons olive oil, divided: Used for searing the chicken and sautéing the vegetables with rich flavor.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth.
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes: Delivers a chewy, tangy punch that brightens the creaminess.
  • 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, sliced: Adds a briny, slightly fruity saltiness to the mix.
  • 2 cups mushrooms: Provides earthy, meaty texture that blends beautifully with the sauce.
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream: The heart of the luscious sauce, making it irresistibly creamy.
  • 1/2 cup chicken stock: Balances the richness and helps build the sauce’s body.
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated: Brings a sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
  • 2 cups fresh spinach: Adds vibrant color and a fresh, slightly sweet contrast.

How to Make Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Seasoned Flour

Start by combining the all-purpose flour, paprika, half of the dried thyme and oregano, along with half the salt and pepper in a shallow bowl or on a clean surface. This seasoned flour mixture is your foundation for creating a perfectly crisp yet delicate crust on the chicken that will hold up beautifully under the creamy sauce.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Take those chicken breast halves and generously season them with the remaining salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and chili flakes. This step brings layers of flavor into each bite, ensuring that the chicken itself punches through even when nestled in the sauce.

Step 3: Dredge Chicken in Flour Mixture

Coat each piece of chicken with the flour seasoning blend, making sure they are fully covered but not overly thick. Shake off any excess flour to prevent clumping and get ready to sear to golden perfection.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat half of the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, then add your floured chicken pieces. Cook each side for 3 to 5 minutes until beautifully browned but not fully cooked through yet—this seals in juices and builds flavor. Once seared, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm.

Step 5: Sauté Aromatics and Veggies

Into the same skillet, pour in the remaining olive oil and toss in minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and mushrooms. Stir and toast these ingredients over medium heat for about 3 to 5 minutes until fragrant and just beginning to soften, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 6: Create the Creamy Sauce

Add the heavy cream, chicken stock, freshly grated Parmesan, fresh spinach, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the skillet. Stir gently to combine all those wonderful flavors and let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly, creating that signature creamy texture.

Step 7: Finish Cooking the Chicken

Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling the pieces into the sauce. Spoon some sauce on top and continue to cook over medium heat until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it’s juicy and cooked through while soaking in those rich flavors.

Step 8: Final Seasoning and Serving

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately while warm, with generous spoonfuls of the creamy mushroom sauce to make every bite a delight.

How to Serve Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Brighten the dish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or basil on top just before serving. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese adds an inviting salty richness that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta that soak up the sauce effortlessly, or a simple garlic butter pasta to keep things comforting and hearty. Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus add fresh crunch and vibrant color to round out the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, try plating the chicken over a bed of wild rice or quinoa to introduce some nutty complexity. Serve the sauce spooned elegantly over the chicken with a side of crusty artisan bread to sop up every drop of that dreamy creaminess. Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for a touch of sophistication that impresses visually as well as in flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of this Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish keeps wonderfully for 3 to 4 days, making it easy to plan meals ahead without losing any of that rich flavor or creamy texture.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months by placing portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Cool it completely before freezing to maintain the sauce’s consistency and the chicken’s tenderness. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low-medium heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken stock or cream if the sauce thickens too much while warming. This will revive the luscious texture and keep the chicken deliciously moist.

FAQs

Can I use different mushrooms in this recipe?

Absolutely! While the classic button mushrooms work great, feel free to mix in cremini, shiitake, or even porcini to add more earthy depth and texture variations to the Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk can be used, but keep in mind the sauce will be less thick and rich. For the best creamy experience, heavy cream is ideal.

How spicy is this dish with the chili flakes?

The chili flakes add a gentle warmth rather than overwhelming heat, making it approachable for most palates. You can always adjust to your preference by adding more or less, or omitting them altogether.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to dredge the chicken. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’re good to go.

What is the best way to slice the chicken breasts?

Slicing the chicken breasts in half horizontally creates thinner pieces that cook evenly and quickly. This also helps them absorb more flavor from the sauce for a tender, juicy result every time.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe truly feels like a hug on a plate—velvety, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to cook again and again, whether you’re treating yourself on a cozy night in or sharing a homemade meal with friends. Go ahead, dive into this creamy, luxurious delight, and let it become your new favorite comfort food classic.

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Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 78 reviews
  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This creamy mushroom chicken recipe features tender seared chicken breasts simmered in a rich and flavorful sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, mushrooms, spinach, and Parmesan cheese. The dish is perfectly seasoned with dried herbs and chili flakes for a subtle kick, making it a comforting and elegant meal that’s quick and easy to prepare on the stovetop.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme, divided
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano, divided
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt, divided
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper, divided
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes, plus more or less to taste

Main Ingredients

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half
  • 4 Tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
  • 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
  • 2 cups mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken stock
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a low bowl or on a clean workspace, combine the flour, paprika, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper. Mix well to create your seasoned dredging mixture.
  2. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with the remaining 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and the chili flakes to taste, ensuring each piece is coated evenly.
  3. Dredge the Chicken: Coat each chicken breast piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess flour to avoid clumps during cooking.
  4. Heat the Oil: In a large non-stick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  5. Sear the Chicken: Add the floured chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 3 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and seared. Be careful not to overcook, as the chicken will continue cooking later. Remove and set aside on a plate.
  6. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same skillet. Stir in the minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, sliced Kalamata olives, and mushrooms. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture is fragrant and vegetables start to soften. Avoid burning the garlic.
  7. Add Creamy Ingredients: Pour in the heavy cream, chicken stock, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine everything evenly. Add the fresh spinach and season the sauce with an additional pinch of salt and pepper.
  8. Simmer the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning sauce over them. Continue cooking until the chicken is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  9. Finalize and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or chili flakes. Serve the creamy mushroom chicken warm, spooning extra sauce over the top.
  10. Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Ensure not to overcook the chicken during searing to keep it tender when simmered in sauce.
  • Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creamy texture in the sauce.
  • Adjust chili flakes according to your preferred spice level.
  • Use low-sodium chicken stock to control the saltiness of the dish.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and a small amount of cream.

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