Description
Creamy mushroom chicken skillet delivers pure comfort with rich, savory flavors that dance across Italian-inspired culinary traditions. Silky sauce and tender chicken create a memorable meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1.2 lb (544 g) chicken breasts, skinless, boneless (2 chicken breasts, sliced horizontally)
- 1 tablespoon flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Mushrooms and Aromatics:
- 8 oz (226 g) cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce and Herbs:
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons fresh thyme, snipped
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by generously seasoning both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then carefully coat each piece in all-purpose flour, ensuring an even, light dusting.
- Heat a large cast-iron or stainless steel skillet over medium heat, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and gently place the floured chicken pieces into the hot pan.
- Sear the chicken for approximately 5 to 6 minutes on each side, developing a golden-brown crust and cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean plate and set aside, keeping it warm.
- In the same skillet, without cleaning, add sliced mushrooms and sprinkle with a pinch of salt, allowing them to release their natural moisture and develop deep, rich flavors.
- Once the mushrooms become juicy and slightly caramelized, remove one-third of them and reserve for garnishing the finished dish.
- Lower the heat and pour in heavy cream, minced garlic, stirring continuously to prevent scorching and create a smooth, velvety sauce.
- Simmer the cream sauce for 2 to 3 minutes until it noticeably thickens, then fold in half of the fresh thyme leaves.
- Gently return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling the pieces into the creamy sauce to reheat and absorb the flavors.
- Plate the chicken, generously spoon the mushroom cream sauce over the top, and garnish with the reserved mushrooms and remaining thyme leaves.
Notes
- Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the most tender and quick-cooking result.
- Ensure mushrooms are thoroughly cleaned and sliced evenly to promote uniform cooking and beautiful presentation.
- Use fresh thyme if possible, as it provides a more vibrant and aromatic flavor compared to dried herbs.
- Check chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee safe and perfectly cooked protein.
- Select a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat distribution and better sauce development.
- Allow chicken to rest briefly after cooking to help retain its juicy, succulent texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 486 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 298 mg
- Fat: 36 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 156 mg