If you’re craving a meal that’s both comforting and impressively delicious, this Baked Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Picture tender chicken breasts gently baked in a luscious, garlicky mushroom sauce that’s rich but never overwhelming, creating a harmony of flavors that feels like a warm hug at the end of a busy day. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough to serve guests, making every bite a celebration of unpretentious home cooking at its finest.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this dish is a breeze, and each one plays a vital role in bringing out the wonderful taste, texture, and color of this recipe. From creamy Parmesan to fragrant thyme, every component works together like a well-rehearsed symphony.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that becomes juicy and tender when baked in the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to create a golden crust with beautiful texture.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the onions and mushrooms to perfection.
- 1 small onion (finely chopped): Brings subtle sweetness and depth to the savory sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic, mouthwatering flavor.
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms (sliced): Adds meaty texture and earthy undertones to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A fragrant herb that brightens the mushroom sauce with gentle herbal notes.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every flavor in the dish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and balance.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Creates a flavorful base that keeps the chicken moist during baking.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and velvety.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts the umami and lightly thickens the sauce with a savory finish.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and a hint of brightness at the end.
How to Make Baked Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides; this simple step is crucial for flavor. Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, just until it turns golden. Don’t worry about cooking it through at this stage—we’re creating a beautiful crust that locks in juices. Remove the chicken and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet—the mix of chicken flavors left behind in the pan will add charm to this step. Toss in the finely chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it softens and starts to sweeten. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until aromatic, careful not to burn it, because that bitter flavor can overpower the dish.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms and Add Herbs
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and let them sauté for 5 to 7 minutes. This gives them time to brown and release their wonderful earthy juices. Sprinkle in the dried thyme now—its herbal fragrance will elevate the sauce in a subtle, sophisticated way.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, allowing it to simmer and merge with the mushroom mixture. Then stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, letting the sauce cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon. This creamy mixture is where the magic happens, transforming simple ingredients into a luscious, comforting sauce.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken to Perfection
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of the mushroom sauce over the top. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven set at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. This gentle baking cooks the chicken through while allowing it to soak up all those savory flavors. Use a meat thermometer if you have one—the chicken is perfectly done when it reaches 165°F internally.
How to Serve Baked Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley can brighten up the plate with a lively green pop and adds a subtle freshness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mushroom sauce. If you love a little zing, a tiny drizzle of lemon juice can also add a surprising lift.
Side Dishes
This Baked Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe shines when paired with fluffy mashed potatoes, which soak up every last bit of that fabulous sauce. Alternatively, steamed rice or roasted seasonal vegetables bring balance to the meal while keeping things light yet satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fancier twist, serve the chicken atop a bed of buttered egg noodles or creamy polenta for extra indulgence. You can also transform this into an elegant plated dish by arranging the chicken with a delicate fan of mushrooms artistically drizzled with sauce and a sprig of fresh thyme for garnish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe is a delight to eat the next day. Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making weeknight meals a breeze to reheat and enjoy.
Freezing
If you want to extend its life, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Freeze in portion-sized airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, making sure to leave some space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream sauce from separating. You can also warm it in the oven at 325°F until heated through. Avoid microwaving at high heat, as it may dry out the chicken or alter the sauce texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms for this recipe?
Absolutely! Cremini and white mushrooms are great, but you can try shiitake, baby bella, or even portobello for a deeper, richer flavor. Just be sure to slice them thinly so they cook evenly.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with olive oil, use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative instead of heavy cream, and swap Parmesan cheese for a plant-based nutritional yeast or vegan cheese to keep that creamy texture and flavor.
How can I make this recipe suitable for bone-in chicken?
Using bone-in chicken thighs or breasts will add extra flavor, but you’ll want to extend the baking time by 10 to 15 minutes to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internally.
Can I add vegetables directly to the skillet while baking?
Definitely. Sliced carrots, green beans, or baby potatoes tossed in with the chicken before going into the oven make the meal more complete and soak up the tasty mushroom sauce beautifully.
What wine pairs best with this dish?
A crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir complements the creamy mushroom sauce and tender chicken perfectly, making your meal feel even more special and well-rounded.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly rewarding about making this Baked Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe—it feels luxurious without any fuss, and it rewards you with comforting, hearty flavors that are impossible to resist. Whether you’re cooking for your family or yourself, give this recipe a try and watch how it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen. You’re going to love it!
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Baked Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Baked chicken with mushrooms is a simple, comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts baked in a savory mushroom and garlic sauce. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, pairing beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Cooking Fats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
Herbs and Liquids
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Season: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and black pepper to ensure balanced flavor throughout.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly golden, but not fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Sauté the finely chopped onion for 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent, then stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release fragrance.
- Cook Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes until they are browned and tender, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in dried thyme, then pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to meld the flavors.
- Make Cream Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring consistently until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2–3 minutes.
- Bake the Chicken: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some of the sauce over the top to coat. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with your choice of sides such as rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables to enjoy all the delicious sauce.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine along with the chicken broth to enhance the sauce.
- This dish can also be made using boneless chicken thighs or bone-in chicken; adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Serve over pasta or rice to fully enjoy the creamy mushroom sauce.
