This luxurious yet incredibly simple Chicken and Mushroom Skillet has become my go-to weeknight dinner solution. Inspired by classic French cuisine but simplified for busy modern life, this dish transforms everyday ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal in just 15 minutes. The combination of golden-seared chicken, earthy mushrooms, and rich cream sauce creates an irresistible comfort food that’s elegant enough for company but easy enough for Monday night.
Perfect Timing
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2-3
Ingredients
For the Protein & Vegetables
- 150g (5.3 oz) chicken strips or turkey breast
- 150g (5.3 oz) fresh mushrooms
- 1 medium onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 piece (30g / 1 oz) herb butter
- 240ml (1 cup) crème fraîche
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon mixed dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and sage)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- If using turkey breast, slice it into uniform strips about 1/2 inch (1.25cm) thick for even cooking.
- Clean and slice mushrooms into 1/4 inch (6mm) thick slices.
- Peel and slice onion into thin strips.
- Chop fresh parsley for garnish.
Cooking the Dish
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add chicken strips and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown on all sides.
- Add sliced mushrooms and onions to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add herb butter and let it melt while stirring to coat all ingredients.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and pour in the crème fraîche.
- Season with salt, pepper, and dried herbs to taste.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly and chicken is fully cooked.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Pro Tips
- Use a wide, heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat distribution and better browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – this ensures proper browning rather than steaming.
- Button mushrooms work great, but feel free to use cremini or a mix of wild mushrooms for more depth of flavor.
- If crème fraîche isn’t available, heavy cream or sour cream make good substitutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this versatile dish over:
- Steamed rice
- Buttered egg noodles
- Mashed potatoes
- Crusty bread for sauce-soaking
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Nutrition Information
Per serving (1/3 of recipe):
- Calories: 385
- Protein: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
This protein-rich dish is perfect for low-carb diets when served without starchy sides. The mushrooms provide essential nutrients including B vitamins and selenium, while the lean protein from chicken or turkey keeps you satisfied.
Recipe Origins and Variations
Originally discovered on mushroom packaging and brilliantly adapted to include protein, this recipe demonstrates how simple variations can transform a side dish into a complete meal. The addition of chicken not only increases the protein content but also creates a more satisfying and well-rounded dish that’s become a weeknight favorite in countless households.
Feel free to customize this versatile recipe by:
- Adding garlic for extra flavor
- Including white wine in the sauce
- Incorporating different fresh herbs
- Using a mix of mushroom varieties
Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this 15-minute wonder delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
