Few dishes strike the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication quite like Chicken and Mushrooms in Lush Cream Sauce. This recipe combines tender, golden-seared chicken with earthy mushrooms, all enveloped in a rich, velvety cream sauce that’s full of flavor and depth.
Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. The secret to its irresistible texture lies in properly searing the chicken and allowing the sauce to gently thicken without boiling.
Ingredients
Serves 4
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5–6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the pan and set aside on a plate.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms
- In the same pan, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and slightly browned.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
- Reduce heat to medium. Add flour (if using) and stir for 30 seconds to form a roux.
- Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking to remove any lumps.
- Add cream, Dijon mustard, Parmesan, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the chicken to the pan, spooning sauce and mushrooms over the top.
- Simmer for another 3 minutes until the chicken is fully coated and heated through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over buttered pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed rice.
- Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted asparagus for a balanced meal.
- For a luxurious twist, add a splash of white wine to the sauce before adding the cream.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 chicken breast with sauce) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 37 grams |
| Total Fat | 26 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 13 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 6 grams |
| Sugars | 2 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 540 milligrams |
| Cholesterol | 120 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Chicken provides lean, high-quality protein.
- Mushrooms add B vitamins, minerals, and umami depth.
- Cream and Parmesan enrich the texture but can be lightened with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a healthier variation.
Tips for the Perfect Cream Sauce
- Avoid boiling the cream, as it can cause separation—simmer gently for best results.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for smoother melting and richer flavor.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of wine or broth after searing the chicken to capture all those flavorful browned bits.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the cream with unsweetened almond milk or low-fat milk.
This Chicken and Mushrooms in Lush Cream Sauce is a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With tender chicken, hearty mushrooms, and a creamy, herb-kissed sauce, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet comforting—perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in.
Serve it once, and it’s sure to become a family favorite that graces your dinner table again and again.