Mushroom Chicken

This Mushroom Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts enveloped in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions, making it a versatile dish that appeals to everyone. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delicious meal that feels indulgent yet is simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Mushroom Chicken can be made in just over an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The creamy mushroom sauce elevates this dish, giving it a comforting gravylike richness.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
• Healthy Option: With lean chicken and wholesome ingredients, this recipe offers balanced nutrition without compromising on taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking of the chicken and proper sauce reduction.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are vital for achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your Mushroom Chicken.
• Whisk: A whisk helps to smoothly combine ingredients when making the creamy sauce.

Ingredients

This Mushroom Chicken recipe has juicy chicken that’s smothered in a thick and creamy mushroom sauce that encompasses the flavor and consistency of gravy.

For the Chicken

• 10 oz. mushrooms (button or baby bella work well)
• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt/Pepper

For the Sauce

• 2 Tablespoons salted butter
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 3-4 Tablespoons olive oil
• 2 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 chicken bouillon cube or 1 tsp better than bouillon
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (can sub Worcestershire sauce)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon EACH: mustard powder, dried thyme
• ½ cup dry white wine (see notes)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 Tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/3 cup heavy cream

How to Make Mushroom Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cleaning and slicing the mushrooms. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Mushroom Sauce

In the same skillet, melt salted butter. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they start to brown. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms, stirring well to coat. Gradually add beef broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add chicken bouillon, soy sauce, onion powder, mustard powder, dried thyme, and white wine. Mix thoroughly.

Step 5: Incorporate Cream

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water until smooth; then stir it into the sauce along with heavy cream. Let simmer until thickened.

Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Return cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some sauce over them and let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful Mushroom Chicken!

How to Serve Mushroom Chicken

Mushroom chicken is a delightful dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions to help you enjoy this creamy and flavorful meal to the fullest.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a perfect base for the rich mushroom sauce, soaking up all the delicious flavors.

Over Rice

• Serving mushroom chicken over fluffy white or brown rice allows the sauce to be absorbed, making each bite satisfying and hearty.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Fresh steamed broccoli or green beans add a vibrant color and crunch, balancing the creaminess of the dish.

On a Bed of Noodles

• Egg noodles tossed in butter can complement the creamy sauce beautifully, adding an extra layer of comfort to your meal.

In a Wrap

• For a fun twist, try wrapping mushroom chicken in a tortilla with fresh greens and diced tomatoes for a quick lunch option.

With Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the savory mushroom sauce, enhancing your dining experience.

Save it!

How to Perfect Mushroom Chicken

To achieve the best results with your mushroom chicken, follow these tips for an unbeatable dish.

• Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms offer better flavor and texture compared to canned options. Look for firm and plump varieties.

• Sear the Chicken: Searing the chicken breasts in olive oil before adding other ingredients locks in moisture and enhances flavor.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce as it cooks. Adjust salt and pepper levels according to your personal preference for the best flavor balance.

• Let it Simmer: Allowing the dish to simmer ensures that all flavors meld together beautifully, creating a rich and creamy sauce.

• Add Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme just before serving adds brightness and freshness to your mushroom chicken.

• Serve Warm: For optimal taste and texture, serve your mushroom chicken immediately after cooking while it’s still warm.

Best Side Dishes for Mushroom Chicken

Pairing side dishes with mushroom chicken can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this tasty dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: This classic option provides crunch and flavor, ideal for dipping into the creamy sauce.
2. Roasted Asparagus: The earthy taste of roasted asparagus balances out the richness of mushroom chicken.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to this hearty dish.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa pilaf makes for a healthy side that’s full of protein and fiber.
5. Creamed Spinach: This decadent side dish enhances the creamy theme while adding nutrients to your plate.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with savory mushroom chicken, providing a wholesome side option.
7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the meal.
8. Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous infused with herbs complements the flavors in mushroom chicken beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mushroom Chicken, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the chicken: This leads to dry meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Neglecting seasoning: Insufficient salt and pepper can make the dish bland. Taste as you go, and adjust seasonings before serving.
• Using low-quality mushrooms: They can affect flavor. Opt for fresh, firm mushrooms for the best taste and texture.
• Skipping the wine: It adds depth to the sauce. If you’re not keen on wine, consider using additional broth or water with a splash of vinegar.
• Not thickening the sauce properly: This could result in a watery consistency. Mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the sauce for a smooth texture.

Save it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Mushroom Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mushroom Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Mushroom Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat on a skillet, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mushroom Chicken:

What is Mushroom Chicken?

Mushroom Chicken is a comforting dish featuring juicy chicken breasts smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce that enhances its flavor.

Can I use different types of mushrooms?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with varieties like shiitake or portobello, but ensure they are fresh for optimal taste.

How do I thicken the mushroom sauce?

To thicken the sauce, mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the simmering mixture. This prevents clumps and creates a smooth texture.

Is Mushroom Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in both the fridge and freezer, making it ideal for meal prep throughout the week.

What sides pair well with Mushroom Chicken?

Mushroom Chicken pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Mushroom Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can customize it by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables. We encourage you to try this comforting dish that’s perfect for any dinner occasion!