Creamy Mushroom Chicken in One Skillet

ByEmily Chicken
Creamy Mushroom Chicken in One Skillet

Experience the magic of this irresistibly creamy mushroom chicken that’s so good, you’ll want to make it three times a week. This restaurant-quality dish comes together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze while delivering maximum flavor. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are perfectly seared and then smothered in a rich, garlicky mushroom cream sauce that’s absolutely divine. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining guests, this simple yet elegant recipe will become your new favorite go-to dinner.

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts (approximately 450-500 g / 16-18 oz total)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter (plus 1 additional tablespoon for the sauce)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 225 g (8 oz) mushrooms, sliced
  • 240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream (30-36% fat)
  • 30 g (¼ cup) parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. If they are very thick, you can slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets for more even cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.

Heat the Skillet

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow the butter to melt and the pan to get hot, but don’t let the butter burn.

Sear the Chicken

Once the skillet is hot and the butter is melted, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes on the first side until a golden-brown crust forms. This searing locks in the juices and creates incredible flavor.

Flip and Finish Cooking

Flip the chicken breasts to the other side and cook for another 4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F) and the chicken is cooked through and golden. The chicken should be juicy and no longer pink in the center.

Rest the Chicken

Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate. Season lightly with additional salt and pepper if desired, then let it rest while you prepare the sauce. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Prepare the Garlic

While the chicken rests, smash and mince 3 garlic cloves. Fresh garlic will fill your kitchen with an amazing aroma and provide the best flavor for this dish.

Start the Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t clean it – those browned bits are pure flavor), add 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the garlic. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender, have released their moisture, and are beginning to brown. The mushrooms should be soft and deeply flavored.

Add the Cream

Pour 1 cup of heavy cream into the skillet with the mushrooms. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.

Season the Sauce

Taste the sauce and season with salt and black pepper to your preference. Remember that the parmesan cheese will add additional saltiness, so don’t over-salt at this stage.

Return the Chicken

Place the rested chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the creamy mushroom sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the top of the chicken and let it warm through in the sauce for 2-3 minutes over low heat.

Add Parmesan and Parsley

Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the chicken and sauce, allowing it to melt into the cream. Add the freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Serve

Serve the creamy mushroom chicken immediately while hot. This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the incredible sauce.

Time and Servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2 servings

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: 685 | Protein: 45g | Carbohydrates: 8g | Fiber: 1g | Fat: 53g | Sodium: 380mg

Why This Recipe Is Good for You

This creamy mushroom chicken delivers a satisfying balance of high-quality protein and beneficial nutrients in one delicious package. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle maintenance, immune function, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied. Mushrooms provide important B vitamins, selenium, and antioxidants that support immune health and may have anti-inflammatory properties. Garlic offers natural antibacterial compounds and may support heart health and immune function. While this dish is rich and indulgent with heavy cream, it provides energy and helps your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins. The one-skillet preparation method also means you’re creating a complete, wholesome meal without processed ingredients or unnecessary additives. This recipe proves that comfort food can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed as part of varied eating habits, providing both nourishment and pure culinary satisfaction.