Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice Recipe
Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice is the kind of cozy, soul-soothing meal that always brings a touch of magic to the dinner table. Every bite is rich with tender chicken and earthy mushrooms, all hugged together by a dreamy, velvety sauce and perfectly cooked rice. This dish doesn’t just check the comfort food box—it gives you a one-pan wonder packed with flavor, ready in under an hour, and guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are the secret behind the irresistible flavor of Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice! Each one has a big part to play, building that creaminess, deep savoriness, and beautiful finish that makes this recipe shine.
- Olive oil: Sautéing in olive oil gives everything a golden touch and a subtle fruity base.
- Chicken breasts or thighs: Bite-sized pieces ensure quick cooking—and extra juiciness if you go with thighs!
- Salt and pepper: Don’t underestimate a good seasoning; it brings the whole dish together.
- Diced onion: Adds a naturally sweet, savory aroma that’s essential to the flavor base.
- Minced garlic: For a gentle kick and irresistible depth.
- Sliced mushrooms: Earthy and meaty mushrooms liven up the sauce—choose cremini for more richness or white button for a milder vibe.
- Dried thyme: The touch of herbs keeps things aromatic and fresh.
- Long-grain white rice: The backbone of this dish, providing fluffy texture that soaks up all those wonderful flavors.
- Chicken broth: Provides savory depth and ensures every grain of rice is infused with flavor.
- Heavy cream: Gives the final luscious, creamy finish that makes this dish so comforting.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty tang that melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Fresh parsley (optional): For a pop of green and a hint of freshness right before serving.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to your sizzling pan. Let the chicken cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally until nicely browned on all sides. Once the chicken is golden and appetizing, transfer it to a plate and set aside—don’t worry, it’ll join the party again soon!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms
In the same pan, toss in the diced onion and cook for around 3 minutes until it’s soft and fragrant. Next, add the garlic and all the sliced mushrooms. Let them cook together, stirring often, until the mushrooms are beautifully browned and tender—this should take 5 to 6 minutes. Breathe in that incredible aroma; it’s the promise of comfort food to come.
Step 3: Toast the Rice and Add Seasoning
Sprinkle in the dried thyme, then pour your uncooked rice right into the pan. Stir well, letting the rice toast and absorb all those savory flavors for about a minute. This little extra step makes the rice extra flavorful and helps it hold up that creamy sauce later.
Step 4: Simmer with Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the whole mixture to a gentle boil. Once it’s up and bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it all simmer for 15 to 18 minutes. The rice will soak up the broth, and everything will meld together. If you want to riff with a splash of white wine for an extra layer of flavor, now’s your moment!
Step 5: Add Cream, Cheese & Finish
Once the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir the cooked chicken back into the pan along with the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let it all simmer together for another 2 to 3 minutes, uncovered, until the sauce is creamy, everything is heated through, and the kitchen smells heavenly. A final sprinkle of fresh parsley makes it look as good as it tastes—now dig in!
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice
Garnishes
A generous shower of freshly chopped parsley gives Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice that restaurant-style finish and a pop of color. For even more flavor, top with a few extra shavings of Parmesan or a light sprinkle of cracked black pepper. If you love a little zip, a tiny splash of lemon juice brightens everything up beautifully.
Side Dishes
Since Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice is so rich and savory, it pairs well with sides that offer contrast and crunch. Think a simple green salad, roasted broccoli or asparagus, or even steamed green beans. Warm, crusty bread is always welcome for scooping up every bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your weeknight with individual ramekins for a dinner party vibe, or serve family-style in a big, rustic skillet at the table. Want to get playful? Hollow out roasted bell peppers and stuff them with Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice for a colorful, crowd-pleasing twist. However you serve it, this dish always steals the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool completely, then spoon them into an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice will keep well for up to 3 days—making it perfect for easy lunches and fast dinners later in the week.
Freezing
Looking to get ahead? This dish freezes beautifully. Just let it cool fully, portion into freezer-safe containers, and stash it away for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and creaminess.
Reheating
When you’re ready to eat, reheat Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice gently in a saucepan over low heat. If it’s looking a little thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water and stir until it’s creamy again. Microwave reheating works, too—just cover and stir halfway through.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Absolutely! Brown rice gives the dish a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Just plan to add a bit more broth and extend the cooking time by 15 to 20 minutes so the rice can become tender.
What kind of mushrooms work best?
Cremini mushrooms deliver extra depth and earthy flavor, but white button mushrooms are also a fantastic, milder option. You can even mix varieties for a flavor twist or toss in some shiitakes if you’re feeling adventurous!
How can I make this dairy-free?
Swap the heavy cream for canned full-fat coconut milk and use your favorite dairy-free Parmesan alternative or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy finish.
Can I prep Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice ahead of time?
You sure can! Prep all your ingredients ahead and store them separately. When you’re ready, cooking will be a breeze, and you’ll have dinner on the table even faster—perfect for meal planning!
How do I keep the chicken tender?
Avoid overcooking by browning the chicken pieces just until golden, then finishing their cooking with the sauce to keep them extra juicy. Thighs, in particular, are very forgiving and stay moist even with reheating.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that blankets you in comfort but is simple enough for any weeknight, Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice is sure to win your heart. I hope your kitchen fills with warm, savory scents and everyone gathers around, eager for a bite. Give it a try and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new staple at your table!
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Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this rich and creamy one-pot dish of Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice. Tender chicken, flavorful mushrooms, and rice cooked in a savory broth, finished with a luxurious cream sauce and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mushroom Sauce:
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz sliced mushrooms (cremini or white button)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet, brown chicken, and set aside.
- Prepare Mushroom Sauce: Saute onion, garlic, and mushrooms until tender. Add thyme.
- Cook Rice: Toast rice, add broth, and simmer until tender.
- Combine: Stir in chicken, cream, and cheese. Simmer until creamy.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and enjoy!
Notes
- For added richness, use a splash of white wine when cooking the mushrooms.
- Brown rice can be used but will require longer cooking time and more broth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1½ cups
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
