Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Life in Asheville moves quickly. Between managing Sweet Magnolia and cherishing family time, dinner needs to be both delicious and simple. This One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom delivers every single time, offering a stress-free yet luxurious meal experience.
Firstly, the “one-pan” aspect is a sheer dream. Imagine preparing a restaurant-quality dish and only having one pan to clean afterward! You minimize mess and maximize enjoyment. This feature alone makes the One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom a winner in any busy household.
Secondly, the flavors are simply divine. Tender, succulent chicken bathes in a rich, velvety cream sauce, perfectly complemented by earthy, savory mushrooms. Aromatic garlic and fragrant herbs infuse every bite with depth.
It creates an explosion of savory goodness that truly satisfies. You achieve complex flavors with straightforward ingredients and minimal effort. This creamy chicken mushroom recipe brings sophistication to your dinner table without the arduous cooking process.
Thirdly, this particular One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom recipe is incredibly versatile. Adapt it to your pantry’s contents. You can easily swap out vegetables or adjust the spices to match your family’s preferences.
It offers a wholesome, balanced meal effortlessly. Furthermore, it reheats beautifully, making fantastic leftovers for lunch the next day. Even picky eaters often adore this comforting dish, thanks to its familiar and inviting textures.
Discover the joy of truly delicious, no-stress cooking; this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom meal. Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking for a smooth process. You’ll use fresh, simple components that truly shine together in this creamy chicken and mushroom concoction.
* 2 tablespoons olive oil: Or use unsalted butter for a richer flavor.
* 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Cut into 1-inch pieces. Chicken breasts also work, but thighs offer more flavor and stay juicier.
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Essential for that classic savory aroma.
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Complements the thyme beautifully.
* ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a touch of smoky depth and color.
* ½ teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste.
* ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best.
* 1 large yellow onion: Finely chopped.
* 8 ounces cremini mushrooms: Sliced. These have a deeper flavor than white button mushrooms.
* 4 cloves garlic: Minced.
Don’t skip the fresh garlic!
* 1 cup chicken broth: Low sodium is preferred, ensuring you control the saltiness.
* 1 cup heavy cream: The key to that luxurious, velvety sauce.
* ¼ cup fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish and a burst of freshness.
One of the best things about this One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom recipe is its adaptability. For an alternative twist, consider trying out the delightful Oven Roasted French Garlic Chicken, which also brings robust flavors to your dinner table.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this delicious One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom dish is wonderfully straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfect, comforting meal.
1. Prepare Your Ingredients: First, cut the chicken thighs into uniform 1-inch pieces. This ensures even cooking.
Next, slice your cremini mushrooms and finely chop the onion. Mince the garlic cloves. Have all your seasonings (thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, pepper) ready.
This mise en place makes the cooking process much smoother.
2. Sear the Chicken: Place a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You might need to do this in two batches.
Season the chicken with half of the salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and paprika. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until beautifully golden brown. This develops a deep flavor.
Remove the seared chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate. It does not need to be fully cooked through yet.
3. Sauté Aromatics and Mushrooms: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the same pan, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken. Cook the onion for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their liquid and begin to brown. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Deglaze and Build the Sauce Base: Pour in the chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to vigorously scrape the bottom of the pan, loosening all those flavorful browned bits (fond).
This action is called deglazing and adds immense depth to your sauce. Let the broth simmer for 1-2 minutes, reducing slightly.
5. Add Cream and Seasonings: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream. Add the remaining salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and paprika.
Mix everything together well. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, but do not let it boil rapidly, as cream can curdle.
6. Simmer the Chicken: Return the seared chicken pieces to the pan, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Ensure the chicken is mostly submerged. Let the One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly to your desired consistency.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Finish and Serve: Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed.
If the sauce is too thin, you can continue to simmer it gently. If it’s too thick, add a splash more chicken broth. Remove the pan from the heat.
Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley. Serve this delightful creamy chicken and mushroom creation immediately.
Pro Tips for Success
As a baker, I know that small details make a big difference. These pro tips will elevate your One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom from great to absolutely exceptional.
* Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the chicken and sautéing the mushrooms, resist the urge to cram too much into the pan at once. Overcrowding drops the pan’s temperature, steaming the ingredients instead of searing them. This prevents that beautiful golden-brown crust and deep flavor development.
Work in batches if necessary. This simple step vastly improves the texture and taste of your one-pan creamy chicken mushroom.
* Achieve a Good Sear: A proper sear on the chicken is crucial.
It locks in juices and creates a rich, complex flavor (the Maillard reaction). Wait until your pan and oil are hot before adding the chicken. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side to develop that delicious crust.
* Scrape Up the Fond: Those browned bits stuck to the bottom of your pan after searing the chicken and sautéing the vegetables? That’s “fond,” and it’s pure flavor! When you add the chicken broth, use a wooden spoon to scrape all those bits up.
They will dissolve into the liquid, forming the delicious base of your creamy sauce. This technique is vital for a deeply flavored One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom.
* Quality Ingredients Matter: Just like with baking, the quality of your ingredients impacts the final result.
Use fresh, good-quality chicken and vibrant, firm mushrooms. A good quality chicken broth will also make a noticeable difference in the depth of your sauce.
* Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Always taste your sauce before serving.
Palates vary, so adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your preference. You might find it needs a little more of something to truly sing. Don’t be afraid to add a pinch more thyme or a twist of fresh pepper.
* Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken thighs are more forgiving than breasts, but still, overcooked chicken becomes dry and stringy. Simmer the chicken gently until it’s just cooked through. A meat thermometer should read 165°F (74°C) for perfect doneness.
This ensures your creamy chicken mushroom remains tender and juicy.
* Wipe, Don’t Wash Mushrooms: Mushrooms act like sponges. Washing them under running water makes them absorb excess moisture, preventing them from browning properly.
Instead, gently wipe them clean with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt.
* Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pan: A good quality, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven distributes heat more evenly and retains it better. This prevents hot spots and ensures consistent cooking, leading to a more evenly cooked and delicious One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom.
As a baker, I know that small details make a big difference. To further elevate your One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom, check out the scrumptious Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet for additional tips and tricks!
Storage & Reheating Tips
This One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom recipe makes fantastic leftovers, perfect for a quick lunch or another effortless dinner. Store and reheat it properly to maintain its deliciousness.
* Storage: First, allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature. This prevents condensation from forming and keeps the dish fresh. Transfer the cooled creamy chicken and mushroom into an airtight container.
Refrigerate it promptly. It will stay fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* Reheating (Stovetop): For the best results, reheat your One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom on the stovetop.
Transfer the leftovers to a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or a little extra heavy cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Stir gently and heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Avoid boiling vigorously, as this can cause the cream to separate.
* Reheating (Microwave): You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place the One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom in a microwave-safe dish.
Heat on medium power in 1-minute increments, stirring in between, until heated through. Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce seems too thick.
* Freezing: While you can freeze this dish, be aware that cream-based sauces sometimes change texture upon thawing, becoming slightly grainy or separating.
If you choose to freeze, ensure the dish is completely cooled. Transfer it to a freezer-safe airtight container, leaving a little headspace. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop. Adding a little fresh cream or broth during reheating helps to restore the sauce’s consistency.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This rich and savory One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think about textures and flavors that will complement the creaminess without overwhelming it.
* Grains:
* Fluffy White or Brown Rice: A classic pairing. The rice soaks up all that delicious creamy sauce, making every bite incredibly satisfying.
* Quinoa: A healthier grain option, offering a nutty flavor and protein boost.
* Couscous: A quick-cooking, light alternative that also absorbs the sauce wonderfully.
* Pasta:
* Egg Noodles: The broad, flat noodles are perfect for catching the rich creamy chicken mushroom sauce.
* Fettuccine or Tagliatelle: These wider pasta shapes provide a lovely texture and surface area for the sauce.
* Penne or Rotini: Shorter, shaped pasta works well too, as the sauce clings to every nook and cranny.
* Bread:
* Crusty Artisan Bread: Absolutely essential for dipping into the luscious sauce. A warm baguette or sourdough loaf is ideal.
* Garlic Bread: The savory garlic perfectly complements the flavors of the One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom.
* Vegetables:
* Steamed Green Beans or Asparagus: Their crisp-tender texture and vibrant color provide a lovely contrast to the rich dish.
* Roasted Broccoli or Brussels Sprouts: A little char on these vegetables adds a delightful depth of flavor.
* Simple Side Salad: A light, fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the cream sauce.
* Potatoes:
* Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For ultimate comfort food, serve the One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes. It’s pure indulgence!
* Roasted New Potatoes: Small, tender potatoes roasted with herbs make a wonderful hearty side.
This rich and savory One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a complementary dish, try serving it alongside the delectable Cheesy Asiago Chicken Delight for the perfect flavor combination.
FAQs
Navigating new recipes often brings up questions. Here are some common queries about making the perfect One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work perfectly in this One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom recipe. Just be mindful that chicken breasts tend to cook faster and can dry out more easily than thighs.
Cut them into similar 1-inch pieces and sear them until golden. Then, reduce the simmering time in the sauce to prevent overcooking. Always aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure juiciness.
How can I make the creamy chicken mushroom sauce thicker?
If your sauce for the creamy chicken mushroom is thinner than you prefer, you have a few options. You can simply let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes; the liquid will reduce, and the sauce will naturally thicken. Alternatively, create a cornstarch slurry: whisk 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the simmering sauce gradually and cook for another minute or two until it reaches your desired consistency.
Is this one-pan creamy chicken recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this one-pan creamy chicken recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided you use gluten-free chicken broth. Always check the label of your chicken broth to ensure it doesn’t contain any hidden gluten-containing ingredients. All other ingredients – chicken, mushrooms, cream, and seasonings – are typically gluten-free.
Can I prepare the One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom in advance?
While the One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom is best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly do some prep work ahead of time. You can chop your chicken, slice your mushrooms, and mince your garlic the day before. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
This significantly cuts down on active cooking time when you’re ready to make the dish. Cooking the full recipe just before serving ensures the best texture for the chicken and the freshest taste for the sauce.
What kind of pan should I use for this creamy chicken mushroom dish?
For the best results with this creamy chicken mushroom dish, use a large (10-12 inch) heavy-bottomed skillet, a Dutch oven, or an oven-safe sauté pan. A heavy-bottomed pan ensures even heat distribution, which is crucial for properly searing the chicken and preventing hot spots that can burn the sauce. Its large size is also essential to avoid overcrowding, especially when browning the chicken and sautéing the mushrooms.
The One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom is a versatile dish that combines tender chicken with savory mushrooms and a rich cream sauce, making it ideal for an effortless weeknight dinner. This culinary style emphasizes simplicity without sacrificing flavor, showcasing how easy it can be to create gourmet meals in the comfort of your home; learn more about its culinary techniques in this Culinary Techniques.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
This nutritional information is an estimate based on the ingredients listed and standard portion sizes for the One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom recipe. Actual values may vary depending on specific brands and exact measurements used.
| Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 35g |
| Saturated Fat | 18g |
| Cholesterol | 140mg |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Sodium | 580mg |
One-Pan Creamy Chicken Mushroom
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A rich, savory, and satisfying one-pan creamy chicken and mushroom dish that delivers incredible flavor with minimal fuss. This recipe brings comfort with a modern twist, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
1.5 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs
1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
½ teaspoon Smoked Paprika
½ teaspoon Salt
¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
1 large Yellow Onio
8 ounces Cremini Mushrooms
4 cloves Garlic
1 cup Chicken Broth
1 cup Heavy Cream
¼ cup Fresh Parsley
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Cut the chicken thighs into uniform 1-inch pieces; slice the mushrooms; chop the onion; mince the garlic
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet, add chicken pieces, season, and sear until golden brow
- Sauté aromatics and mushrooms: Cook onion, then add mushrooms and garlic
- Deglaze and build the sauce base: Pour in chicken broth, scrape the bottom of the pa
- Add cream and seasonings: Stir in heavy cream and remaining seasonings; simmer gently
- Simmer the chicken: Return chicken to the pan and simmer until cooked through
- Finish and serve: Adjust seasonings, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately
Notes
Ensure you don't overcrowd the pan while searing chicken and sautéing vegetables for the best texture.
Use fresh, quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 140mg