Cream of Mushroom Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying and comforting meal with minimal effort. The creamy sauce, made with condensed mushroom soup and evaporated milk, coats the chicken beautifully, creating a luscious dish that pairs well with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner option or a dish to impress guests, this creamy chicken recipe is a fantastic choice.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Butter
• Onion, chopped
• Fresh or canned mushrooms
• Condensed cream of mushroom soup
• Evaporated milk
• Water (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté onions and mushrooms until tender.
3. Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the cream of mushroom soup and evaporated milk. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens. Add salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Total Fat: ~15g (20% DV)
• Saturated Fat: ~7g (35% DV)
• Cholesterol: ~90mg (30% DV)
• Sodium: ~800mg (35% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: ~12g (4% DV)
  • Dietary Fiber: ~1g (4% DV)
  • Total Sugars: ~4g
• Protein: ~40g (80% DV)
• Calcium: ~120mg (10% DV)
• Iron: ~2mg (15% DV)

The History and Origin of Cream of Mushroom Chicken

Cream of Mushroom Chicken is a dish that has become a staple in many households due to its simplicity and comfort. The origins of the recipe are often debated, but it is believed to have roots in classic American cuisine, particularly during the mid-20th century when convenience foods like canned soup began to be integrated into home cooking. The combination of chicken and mushrooms in a creamy sauce can be traced back to the French culinary tradition, where rich cream sauces were commonly paired with poultry and earthy mushrooms. Over time, the recipe evolved into the modern version we know today, often incorporating the use of canned cream of mushroom soup as a shortcut for creating a velvety, flavorful sauce.

The Ingredients That Make Cream of Mushroom Chicken Special

The key to the success of Cream of Mushroom Chicken lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. While variations may include different herbs, spices, or additional vegetables, the base ingredients remain relatively consistent across recipes. The dish typically includes chicken breasts, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce. However, there are many ways to elevate this dish by adding extra ingredients such as garlic, onions, thyme, or even a touch of white wine for added depth of flavor.

How Cream of Mushroom Chicken Became a Family Favorite

Cream of Mushroom Chicken’s popularity as a family favorite is partly due to its ability to please both children and adults. The creamy sauce and mild flavors of the chicken and mushrooms make it an approachable dish that can be enjoyed by a wide range of palates. The recipe’s simplicity also makes it an ideal choice for busy families, as it requires minimal preparation and can be on the table in under an hour.

Variations of Cream of Mushroom Chicken

One of the great things about Cream of Mushroom Chicken is how easily it can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

Low-Carb Version:

For those following a low-carb diet, you can easily modify the recipe to reduce the carbohydrate content. Instead of serving the chicken over rice or pasta, consider pairing it with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a simple green salad. You can also replace the canned cream of mushroom soup with a homemade cream sauce made with heavy cream, chicken broth, and a small amount of almond flour or cornstarch for thickening.

Gluten-Free Version:

To make Cream of Mushroom Chicken gluten-free, simply swap out the regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Be sure to check the label of the canned cream of mushroom soup to ensure it is gluten-free, or opt for a homemade version using gluten-free ingredients.

Dairy-Free Version:

For a dairy-free alternative, you can replace the cream and butter with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream substitute like oat milk or almond milk. Use dairy-free butter or olive oil for sautéing the chicken and mushrooms. This variation still provides a creamy texture and rich flavor, without the use of dairy.

Mushroom-Free Version:

Although mushrooms are a key ingredient in this dish, they can be omitted or substituted for other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. If you prefer a meatier flavor, consider adding some crispy bacon or sausage to the dish. These modifications can give the dish a new twist while still maintaining its comforting nature.

The Best Ways to Serve Cream of Mushroom Chicken

While Cream of Mushroom Chicken is delicious on its own, there are several ways to serve and present the dish that will take it to the next level. Here are some serving ideas:

• Over Rice: The creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with fluffy white rice or brown rice. The rice helps soak up the rich sauce, creating a satisfying bite with every spoonful.
• Mashed Potatoes: Cream of Mushroom Chicken is a perfect companion to mashed potatoes, especially when the sauce is generously poured over the top.
• Pasta: A bed of pasta, such as egg noodles, penne, or spaghetti, makes an excellent base for this dish. The creamy sauce clings to the pasta, creating a hearty and flavorful meal.
• As a Casserole: For a fun twist, consider turning Cream of Mushroom Chicken into a casserole. Layer the chicken and sauce with your favorite vegetables and a crunchy topping, such as breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, and bake until golden brown.

Tips for Cooking the Perfect Cream of Mushroom Chicken

While the recipe itself is simple, there are a few tips that can help you achieve the best results when making Cream of Mushroom Chicken:

1. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooking chicken breasts can lead to dry, tough meat. Be sure to cook the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to keep it moist and tender.
2. Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms provide a better texture and flavor than canned mushrooms. Sauté them until golden brown before adding the cream sauce for enhanced flavor.
3. Season Well: Don’t be afraid to season your dish generously. A pinch of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavors of the dish and bring out the richness of the sauce.
4. Add a Splash of Wine: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan after cooking the chicken. This will help incorporate any flavorful bits stuck to the pan into the sauce.
5. Make it Ahead: Cream of Mushroom Chicken can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the oven before serving.

Conclusion

Cream of Mushroom Chicken is a dish that combines simplicity with indulgence. Its rich and creamy sauce, paired with tender chicken, makes it a comforting favorite for many families. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out one of the many variations, this dish is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm your heart!