Delicious Cream of Mushroom Chicken Recipes You Must Try

Are you searching for a dinner recipe that’s both quick to prepare and guaranteed to please the whole family? If so, you’ve come to the right place! Cream of mushroom chicken is a classic comfort food that, when done right, delivers incredibly rich flavor with minimal effort. This versatile dish can be adapted to fit a weeknight rush or a festive gathering, making it a true kitchen hero. Let’s dive into how you can create this crowd-pleasing meal with ease and confidence.

Irresistible Ingredients

The magic of cream of mushroom chicken lies in its simplicity, allowing high-quality ingredients to shine. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. (Thighs offer more moisture and flavor, while breasts are leaner.)
• Mushrooms: 8 oz cremini mushrooms (baby bellas), sliced. (Their earthy flavor is superior, but white button mushrooms work in a pinch.)
• Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped. (Adds a foundational sweetness and aroma.)
• Garlic: 3-4 cloves garlic, minced. (Essential for that pungent, savory depth.)
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup. (The backbone of the sauce. Look for a good quality brand.)
• Milk: 1.5 cups milk (whole milk for richness, 2% for a lighter option).
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth. (Adds liquid and enhances chicken flavor.)
• Butter/Oil: 1 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp olive oil. (Butter for flavor, oil for a higher smoke point.)
• Seasoning: Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. (Don’t underestimate the power of good seasoning!)
• Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped. (For a pop of color and freshness.)

Timing Your Culinary Success

This recipe is significantly quicker than many traditional cream-based chicken dishes, which often require longer simmering times or more complex sauce preparations. With about 40 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weekdays.

Step-by-Step Creamy Goodness

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Pat your chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step for achieving a beautiful sear. Season generously with salt and pepper. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan (work in batches if necessary). Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be cooked through at this stage; we’re just building flavor and color. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the same skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Cook the onion for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released their moisture and started to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Now, pour in the condensed cream of mushroom soup and the chicken broth. Stir well to combine everything, ensuring there are no lumps from the soup. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Return the seared chicken pieces (and any accumulated juices) to the skillet with the sauce. Stir in the milk. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender, and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce is rich and creamy, remove the skillet from the heat. Taste and adjust seasonings one last time. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Nutritional Snapshot

While exact nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, a typical serving of cream of mushroom chicken (prepared as above) is roughly:

• Calories: 350-450 kcal
• Protein: 30-40g
• Fat: 15-25g
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g

Healthier Swaps for Lighter Indulgence

Looking to lighten up this classic dish without sacrificing flavor? Here are some simple substitutions:

• Lighter Soup Base: Instead of condensed soup, create a sauce from scratch using sautéed mushrooms, onions, garlic, low-sodium chicken broth, and a roux made with whole wheat flour and a touch of olive oil, finished with a lighter milk or half-and-half.
• Leaner Protein: Opt for chicken breast and ensure it’s not overcooked.
• Reduced Fat Dairy: Use skim or 1% milk instead of whole milk. For a milder richness reduction, low-fat half-and-half can be used sparingly.
• More Veggies: Bulk up the dish with extra mushrooms, or add in spinach, peas, or broccoli florets during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.
• Lower Sodium Broth: Always choose low-sodium chicken broth to manage salt intake.

Perfect Pairings for Your Creamy Chicken

Cream of mushroom chicken is wonderfully versatile. Here are some ideas:

• Over Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice is a classic choice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• With Pasta: Serve it over fettuccine, egg noodles, or penne for a hearty pasta dish.
• Mashed Potatoes: A true comfort food combination.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into that luscious sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus provide a fresh contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your cream of mushroom chicken is always a success:

• Don’t skip searing the chicken: This step is crucial for developing flavor and a pleasant texture.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan: If you cook too much chicken at once, it will steam rather than sear, leading to a pale and less flavorful result.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Chicken breast can become dry easily. Cook it until just done.
• Burn the garlic: Add garlic towards the end of sautéing aromatics and cook briefly until fragrant.
• Use a watery sauce: Ensure the condensed soup is fully incorporated and the sauce simmers gently to thicken.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You might need to add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.

A Creamy Dream Come True

Cream of mushroom chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create profoundly satisfying meals. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this dish is achievable and adaptable. It’s the kind of meal that brings warmth to your table and smiles to your family’s faces. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up a batch of this creamy, dreamy chicken – your taste buds will thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicken Wings with Mushrooms

• Author: Chef Sara

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

This delicious and savory dish combines juicy chicken wings with earthy mushrooms, creating a flavorful meal perfect for any occasion. The umami-packed marinade enhances the taste, while the mushrooms provide a hearty complement. Serve with rice or noodles for a complete meal.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 10chicken wings, cut in half6mushrooms, sliced3–4slices of fresh ginger2green onions, chopped2 tbspsoy sauce1 tbspoyster sauce1 tbspcornstarch½ tbspdark soy sauceSalt to tasteBlack pepper to taste
• 6mushrooms, sliced3–4slices of fresh ginger2green onions, chopped2 tbspsoy sauce1 tbspoyster sauce1 tbspcornstarch½ tbspdark soy sauceSalt to tasteBlack pepper to taste
• 3–4slices of fresh ginger2green onions, chopped2 tbspsoy sauce1 tbspoyster sauce1 tbspcornstarch½ tbspdark soy sauceSalt to tasteBlack pepper to taste
• 2green onions, chopped2 tbspsoy sauce1 tbspoyster sauce1 tbspcornstarch½ tbspdark soy sauceSalt to tasteBlack pepper to taste
• 2 tbspsoy sauce1 tbspoyster sauce1 tbspcornstarch½ tbspdark soy sauceSalt to tasteBlack pepper to taste
• 1 tbspoyster sauce1 tbspcornstarch½ tbspdark soy sauceSalt to tasteBlack pepper to taste
• 1 tbspcornstarch½ tbspdark soy sauceSalt to tasteBlack pepper to taste
• ½ tbspdark soy sauceSalt to tasteBlack pepper to taste
• Salt to tasteBlack pepper to taste
• Black pepper to taste

---

Instructions

1. 1️⃣Marinate the chicken wings:In a bowl, combine the chicken wings with ginger slices, soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, dark soy sauce, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes.2️⃣Prepare the skillet:Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Place the marinated chicken wings skin-side down in the skillet.3️⃣Cook the chicken:Fry the chicken wings for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.4️⃣Add the mushrooms:Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Stir and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the mushrooms have softened and released their juices.5️⃣Season the dish:Adjust the flavor with a little more salt and black pepper if needed. Stir everything well to coat evenly with the sauce.6️⃣Garnish and serve:Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the dish. Give it a quick stir and serve immediately.
2. 2️⃣Prepare the skillet:Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Place the marinated chicken wings skin-side down in the skillet.3️⃣Cook the chicken:Fry the chicken wings for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.4️⃣Add the mushrooms:Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Stir and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the mushrooms have softened and released their juices.5️⃣Season the dish:Adjust the flavor with a little more salt and black pepper if needed. Stir everything well to coat evenly with the sauce.6️⃣Garnish and serve:Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the dish. Give it a quick stir and serve immediately.
3. 3️⃣Cook the chicken:Fry the chicken wings for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
4. 4️⃣Add the mushrooms:Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Stir and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the mushrooms have softened and released their juices.5️⃣Season the dish:Adjust the flavor with a little more salt and black pepper if needed. Stir everything well to coat evenly with the sauce.6️⃣Garnish and serve:Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the dish. Give it a quick stir and serve immediately.
5. 5️⃣Season the dish:Adjust the flavor with a little more salt and black pepper if needed. Stir everything well to coat evenly with the sauce.6️⃣Garnish and serve:Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the dish. Give it a quick stir and serve immediately.
6. 6️⃣Garnish and serve:Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the dish. Give it a quick stir and serve immediately.

---

Notes

Mushroom variety:Button mushrooms work great, but you can also use shiitake or oyster mushrooms for a different flavor profile.Spice it up:Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili oil for a spicy kick.Serving suggestions:Pair with steamed white rice, fried rice, or noodles to complete the meal.
Spice it up:Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili oil for a spicy kick.Serving suggestions:Pair with steamed white rice, fried rice, or noodles to complete the meal.
Serving suggestions:Pair with steamed white rice, fried rice, or noodles to complete the meal.