Looking for a simple, tasty dinner? You’ve come to the right place! This Cream of Mushroom and Chicken recipe is not just easy, it’s packed with flavor. With just a few ingredients and quick steps, you can create a meal that will impress your family or guests. Let’s dive into how to make this creamy delight that everyone will love! Cooking becomes fun again when you know just how easy it can be.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or a mix)
– 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Substitutions and Alternatives
You can swap chicken for turkey or tofu for a lighter dish. If you prefer, use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream. This change makes the dish less rich but still tasty. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegan version. For the mushrooms, you can choose any variety you like, such as shiitake or portobello.
Nutritional Information per Serving
Each serving of this dish contains about:
– Calories: 400
– Protein: 30g
– Fat: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Fiber: 1g
– Sugars: 2g
This recipe serves four, making it great for family dinners or meal prep! If you want to explore more about the full recipe, check it out in the cooking section.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Gather all your ingredients first. This makes cooking easier. You will need:
– 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped
Make sure your chicken is diced into small pieces. This helps it cook faster. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Set everything aside for easy access.
Cooking Process
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. When the butter melts, add the onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until soft. Next, add the garlic and cook for one more minute. Stir often to prevent burning.
Now, add the diced chicken into the skillet. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes. Make sure the chicken gets browned on all sides. After that, stir in the sliced mushrooms. Cook them for about 5 minutes. They should start to soften.
Pour in the chicken broth and add thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for about 3 minutes. After that, reduce the heat and add the heavy cream. Stir the mixture well and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes. The sauce will thicken slightly.
Final Touches
Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. If it needs more salt or pepper, add it now. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve hot and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
This dish pairs well with crusty bread or rice. Enjoy your creamy mushroom and chicken delight! For the full recipe, check the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making cream of mushroom and chicken, avoid cooking the chicken too fast. This can lead to dry meat. Always cook it on medium heat. Another mistake is adding the cream too soon. Adding it too early can cause curdling. Wait until the other ingredients are ready. Lastly, don’t skip seasoning. Salt and pepper bring out the flavors. Taste as you go!
How to Achieve the Best Flavor
To boost flavor, use fresh herbs like thyme. Many people overlook the power of herbs. They add depth and aroma. Also, try using a mix of mushrooms. Button and cremini mushrooms blend well together. They create a rich, earthy taste. Sauté garlic until golden, but don’t burn it. This step enhances the dish’s overall flavor. Lastly, let it simmer. This allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
Presentation Tips
Serve your creamy mushroom and chicken in wide bowls. This makes for a beautiful display. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for color and freshness. Pair it with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes. This adds texture and complements the dish well. For a rustic touch, use wooden serving spoons. This simple detail elevates your meal’s look. Enjoy your gourmet meal at home!
Variations
Slow Cooker Method
You can make this dish in a slow cooker for a hands-off meal. Start by adding the diced chicken, sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker. Stir everything well to mix. Set the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. In the last 30 minutes, add the heavy cream. This method gives you tender chicken and a rich sauce.
Instant Pot Version
For a quick version, use an Instant Pot. First, select the sauté mode. Heat olive oil and butter, then add onion and garlic. Next, add the diced chicken and brown it. Stir in sliced mushrooms, chicken broth, thyme, and paprika. Close the lid and set it to pressure cook for 10 minutes. Once done, release the pressure, and stir in the heavy cream. This creates a creamy and delicious meal in no time.
Creamy Mushroom & Chicken Pasta
You can turn this recipe into a pasta dish. Cook your favorite pasta according to package directions. Prepare the mushroom and chicken sauce as usual. Once ready, toss the sauce with the cooked pasta. Serve it hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This variation adds a hearty twist to the classic dish.
For full details, check out the Full Recipe.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After enjoying your creamy mushroom and chicken, store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh and prevents odors from mixing. Make sure to let it cool first, then seal it tightly. Leftovers will last for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, you can use a skillet or the microwave. If using a skillet, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Heat it on medium until warm, stirring often. In the microwave, cover the container to trap steam. Heat in short bursts of 1 minute, stirring in between until it’s hot.
Freezing Tips
If you want to freeze your creamy mushroom and chicken, do so within 2 days of cooking. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight or use the microwave on defrost mode. Before serving, reheat as described above. For the best taste, enjoy it fresh, but freezing works well for busy nights!
For the complete cooking experience, check out the Full Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use different types of mushrooms?
Yes, you can use many types of mushrooms. Button, cremini, and shiitake are great choices. Each type adds its own flavor. You can mix them for a deeper taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, stick to button mushrooms. For a richer taste, go for cremini or shiitake. Fresh mushrooms work best, but you can use dried if needed. Just soak them in water first to rehydrate.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. It stays tasty for up to three days. Just divide it into containers for easy lunches or dinners. Reheat your meal in the microwave or on the stove. The creamy sauce may thicken, so add a splash of chicken broth when reheating.
What can I serve with Cream of Mushroom and Chicken?
You have many options for sides. Serve it over rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a filling meal. Crusty bread is great for soaking up the sauce. You can also pair it with steamed veggies for a healthy touch. A simple salad adds freshness and crunch. Feel free to get creative with your sides! For more ideas, check out the Full Recipe.
In this post, we covered the key ingredients and their substitutes. You learned how to prepare, cook, and finish your dish for the best taste. We discussed common mistakes to avoid and ways to make your meals look great. Finally, I shared different cooking methods and storage tips.
Cooking can be fun and simple. With these steps, you can make a delicious meal easily. Enjoy trying new flavors and techniques. Keep experimenting!
