Creamy Mushroom Chicken And Rice

Name: Creamy Mushroom Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Soul Food Bliss

I love making Creamy Mushroom Chicken And Rice for a comforting weeknight dinner. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and creamy sauce is simply irresistible. Not only does it come together in about 30 minutes, but it's also packed with flavor and pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables. Every bite is a delicious balance of textures, and the whole family enjoys it. This recipe has become a go-to in my kitchen, perfect for busy nights when I want something homemade and satisfying.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:49:35.870Z

When I first tried making Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious it turned out. The key is allowing the mushrooms to caramelize before adding the garlic; this step deepens the flavor of the dish tremendously. I recall serving it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, which added a lovely pop of color!

Over time, I found that using a mix of chicken thighs and breasts created an incredible blend of juiciness and tenderness. Additionally, making sure not to overcook the rice is vital to keeping everything creamy and cohesive. Trust me, this dish will impress everyone around the table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Richly creamy sauce that perfectly envelops the chicken and rice
Earthy mushrooms add depth and umami to each bite
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights
One-pot meal means less cleanup without compromising on flavor

The Role of Cream in This Dish

The heavy cream in this recipe is essential for achieving that luscious, velvety sauce that clings to the chicken and rice. The fat content in heavy cream helps to create a rich mouthfeel, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half, but keep in mind that the sauce may not be as thick or indulgent. For a dairy-free option, consider using full-fat coconut milk, which adds a subtle sweetness while maintaining creaminess.

Incorporating the cream at the end of cooking is crucial. This timing prevents the cream from curdling due to prolonged exposure to heat. When you stir in the cream after simmering the chicken and rice, the dish becomes glossy and luxurious. Make sure to heat it gently, simmering only a few more minutes until everything is heated through; you'll know it's ready when you see small bubbles form along the edges.

Choosing the Right Mushrooms

Mushrooms play a vital role in providing depth and umami flavor to this dish. While the recipe calls for button mushrooms, feel free to experiment with other varieties like cremini or shiitake. Cremini mushrooms offer a slightly stronger flavor, while shiitake mushrooms introduce an earthy note that beautifully complements the chicken. When using dried mushrooms, rehydrate them in warm water first for about 20-30 minutes, then chop and add them to the sauté pan.

Fresh mushrooms should be cleaned gently with a damp cloth or a soft brush instead of rinsing them under water. This prevents them from becoming waterlogged and losing their firmer texture. Sautéing them until golden not only enhances their flavor but also reduces moisture, ensuring they concentrate their taste and contribute to the overall richness of the dish.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice

Main Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the onions and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the mushrooms are golden and the onions are translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Return the chicken to the skillet and add the rice, stirring everything together. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

Finish with Cream

After 15 minutes, remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious, creamy mushroom chicken and rice!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of white wine to the skillet after sautéing the mushrooms, allowing it to evaporate slightly before proceeding with the recipe.

Storing and Reheating

This Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice stores well, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Once cooled, transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain the creaminess as it thaws. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.

When reheating, pay attention to the texture. You may notice the sauce thickening during storage; adding a little extra cream or broth can help restore its creamy consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave if possible, as it can unevenly heat the dish, leading to dry patches of chicken or clumped rice.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but serving it with a side of steamed vegetables can add freshness and a pop of color. Broccoli, green beans, or snap peas pair wonderfully, adding a crisp contrast to the creamy texture of the chicken and rice. You can simply steam them while the dish simmers to save time.

For a touch of brightness, consider drizzling some lemon juice over your vegetables or garnishing the dish with zest before serving. It enhances the overall flavor profile, cutting through the richness of the cream and creating a well-rounded meal. Additionally, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top can elevate the dish even further, adding a saltiness that enhances the other flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Absolutely! You can experiment with cremini, shiitake, or even portobello mushrooms for different flavors.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and mushroom mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the rice and broth when you're ready to cook.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative to enjoy a creamy texture without dairy.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete meal.