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Cast iron skillet filled with golden-brown Creamy Mushroom Chicken, savory sauce, and fresh chives.

Effortless Creamy Mushroom Chicken Skillet for Busy Nights

This quick one-pan meal delivers tender chicken and earthy mushrooms in a rich, velvety sauce, perfect for a satisfying dinner on even the busiest weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
For the Creamy Mushroom Sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 8 oz cremini mushrooms sliced
  • 1/2 yellow onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups chicken broth low sodium
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large Skillet (10-12 inch)
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Whisk

Method
 

Prepare the Chicken
  1. Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with 1 tbsp olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Cook the Chicken
  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet (10-12 inch) over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Sauté Mushrooms and Onion
  1. In the same skillet, add the sliced cremini mushrooms. Cook over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and have released their liquid. Add the diced yellow onion and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add Garlic and Flour
  1. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mushrooms and onion, stirring continuously for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
Build the Creamy Sauce
  1. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring until it thickens slightly.
Finish the Sauce and Combine
  1. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream. Bring back to a gentle simmer. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the creamy sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through and allow flavors to meld.
Serve
  1. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or with a side of crusty bread or steamed vegetables.

Notes

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add spinach (stir in at the very end until wilted) or a handful of frozen peas (add with the chicken broth) for extra veggies.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Spice Level: For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.