If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Chicken with Mushroom Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chicken breasts bathed in a luscious, velvety mushroom gravy that’s bursting with rich flavors and comforting aromas. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but special enough to impress guests, bringing together earthy mushrooms, fragrant herbs, and a silky sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let me walk you through how to make this classic, soul-satisfying dish that truly elevates everyday chicken.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the great joys of this Creamy Chicken with Mushroom Gravy Recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding depth, creaminess, or that golden-brown sear you want on your chicken for perfect texture and flavor.
- Chicken breasts (600 g / 1.2 lb, boneless skinless, 4 small): The star of the dish, choose fresh, evenly sized breasts to cook uniformly.
- Salt and pepper: Fundamental for seasoning, bringing out the natural flavors in the chicken and mushrooms.
- Olive oil (2 tsp): For a light sear that locks in juiciness on the chicken without overpowering the gravy.
- Butter (1 tbsp + 2 tbsp separated): Adds richness to the sauce and helps sauté the mushrooms to perfection.
- Mushrooms (120 g / 4 oz, sliced): Their earthy flavor forms the heart of the gravy, offering hearty texture and umami depth.
- Garlic clove (1, finely chopped): Small but mighty, it infuses the gravy with a fragrant warmth that ties everything together.
- Flour (1/4 cup / 35 g, about 3 tbsp): The magic ingredient that thickens the gravy into that creamy, spoon-coating perfection.
- Beef broth (2 cups / 500 ml): Rich and savory, it builds a flavorful base for the mushroom sauce; chicken broth can be used as a lighter alternative.
- Thyme or parsley: Fresh herbs add a pop of green color and a hint of brightness to balance the creamy sauce.
How to Make Creamy Chicken with Mushroom Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel — this is key to getting a beautiful golden crust. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. The seasoning is what sets the foundation for flavor, so don’t be shy here.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer them to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm. The goal is moist, tender chicken with a crisp edge that complements the creamy gravy.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and melt it over medium heat. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they turn a rich golden brown, about 5 minutes. The mushrooms will release their moisture and then caramelize, which is exactly what you want for a deep flavor. Add the finely chopped garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, careful not to burn it.
Step 4: Make the Roux
Push the mushrooms to the side, then add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan. Let it melt, then sprinkle the flour over the butter and mushrooms. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes until the mixture is bubbling and lightly golden. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and sets up the thickening power for your creamy sauce.
Step 5: Create the Mushroom Gravy
Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. The mixture will gradually thicken into a luscious gravy. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce coats the back of a spoon and the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the pan, nestling them into the mushroom gravy. Spoon some sauce over the top and let everything simmer together for a few minutes to warm through and marry the flavors. Sprinkle fresh thyme or parsley before serving for that fresh herbal note that lifts the whole dish.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken with Mushroom Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A simple touch of fresh chopped parsley or thyme leaves brightens the dish and gives it an inviting, homey appearance. You can also add a sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a few grated Parmesan shavings for extra richness and sparkle.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Chicken with Mushroom Gravy Recipe pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes that soak up every drop of gravy. Steamed green beans or roasted seasonal vegetables add freshness and crunch, balancing the creaminess perfectly. A crusty bread is also a fantastic companion to mop up the delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic look, serve the chicken and mushroom gravy in wide shallow bowls with a sprinkle of microgreens on top. Alternatively, create individual portions in mini cast-iron skillets for a charming, restaurant-style presentation at your next dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. The creamy mushroom gravy tends to thicken as it cools, so gently reheat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Store the chicken and mushroom gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat slowly over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding a little broth or cream while reheating helps restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Adjust cooking time as thighs generally take a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts.
What type of mushrooms work best for the gravy?
Cremini or button mushrooms are excellent choices because of their mild, earthy flavor and availability. For a more robust taste, try using a mix of shiitake or portobello mushrooms.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine and use a dairy-free thickener such as cornstarch instead of flour. Just be mindful of the broth ingredients to keep it fully dairy-free.
Is it better to use beef broth or chicken broth?
Beef broth gives a deeper, richer flavor to the mushroom gravy, but chicken broth works just fine if you prefer a lighter taste or have it on hand.
How do I get the gravy extra smooth?
Whisk the flour and broth thoroughly while making the sauce to avoid lumps. If lumps appear, strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve or use an immersion blender for ultimate smoothness.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Creamy Chicken with Mushroom Gravy Recipe a try — it’s the kind of comfort food that warms your heart and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Whether you’re feeding family or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish never fails to satisfy and impress. Enjoy every silky, flavorful bite!
Print
Creamy Chicken with Mushroom Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken with Mushroom Gravy recipe features tender, boneless skinless chicken breasts cooked to perfection and served with a rich, flavorful mushroom gravy made from sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and a savory beef broth base. It’s a quick and comforting dish ideal for weeknight dinners, offering a delicious balance of protein and creamy sauce with aromatic herbs like thyme or parsley.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 600 g / 1.2 lb chicken breasts, boneless skinless (4 small pieces)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp / 15g butter
Mushroom Gravy
- 120 g / 4 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 garlic clove, finely chopped or minced
- 1/4 cup / 35g flour (about 3 tbsp)
- 2 cups / 500 ml beef broth (can substitute with chicken broth)
- 2 tbsp / 30 g butter (separated)
- Thyme or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet or frying pan, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are browned and have released their moisture, about 5 minutes. Add the finely chopped garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Gravy Base: Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook the mixture for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, stirring continuously so the flour coats the mushrooms evenly.
- Add the Broth and Simmer: Gradually pour in the beef broth (or chicken broth if preferred), stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and continue to cook the gravy, stirring until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the pan, spooning the mushroom gravy over them. Heat everything together for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors. Garnish with chopped thyme or parsley before serving hot.
Notes
- Note 1: Using small chicken breasts helps them cook evenly and quickly.
- Note 2: Beef broth adds deeper flavor to the gravy, but chicken broth is a good substitute for a lighter taste.
- You can adjust the thickness of the gravy by adding more broth if it becomes too thick.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to enjoy the delicious gravy.
