Creamy Mushroom Chicken And Rice

Name: Creamy Mushroom Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 lb chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 2 cups brown rice; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Family Favorites

I love how this Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice dish effortlessly combines comfort and flavor in one pot. The creamy sauce coats each piece of chicken and rice beautifully, infused with the earthy richness of mushrooms. Preparing this meal is easy and requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy evenings. Every bite transports me to a cozy dinner where warmth and satisfaction take center stage. I can't wait to share this delightful recipe with you and hope you enjoy every spoonful as much as I do!

Created by

Natalie Warren

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:13:35.679Z

When I first tried making Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice, I was blown away by how easy it was to create a restaurant-quality meal right in my kitchen. The key is allowing the mushrooms to sauté until they reach a golden brown color, which deepens their flavor and enhances the overall dish. I remember bringing this to a family gathering, and it was a hit!

One tip that really helped me was to use a combination of chicken thighs and breasts. Thighs keep their moisture and add richness, while breasts provide the leaner option, resulting in a perfect balance. Trust me; this simple switch made all the difference in the final dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce that envelops tender chicken and rice
Savory mushrooms add depth and heartiness to the dish
Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Ingredient Insights

The combination of chicken thighs and breasts in this recipe ensures a balance of flavor and texture. Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving when cooked, while chicken breasts can add a lean protein punch. This blend results in a dish that remains moist, with a rich creaminess from the sauce enveloping every piece. For a leaner option, consider using only chicken breasts, but be mindful not to overcook them.

Mushrooms play a pivotal role in adding depth to this dish. Their earthy flavor complements the cream and chicken beautifully. You can opt for button mushrooms for a milder taste, or choose shiitake or cremini for a more robust flavor. If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, replace the chicken with firm tofu and use vegetable broth to keep the dish hearty and satisfying, while still aligning with the original flavor profile.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the chicken at medium-high heat until golden brown not only enhances its flavor but also creates a fond at the bottom of the skillet. This fond, those brown bits, can be deglazed later with the chicken broth, infusing even more flavor into the dish. Ensure you don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to achieve a beautiful sear. A well-seared chicken will add complexity to the overall taste.

When adding the rice and broth, make sure to stir well and scrape the fond off the skillet to incorporate all those flavors into the cooking liquid. Once you cover and reduce the heat to low, avoid lifting the lid during the simmering process; this traps steam and ensures the rice cooks evenly. If the rice isn’t cooked fully after 20 minutes, just let it simmer a few extra minutes, checking to see if more broth is needed.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 lb chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
2 cups brown rice
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to check your pantry for these staples before you start!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice:

Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs and breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until browned, then remove from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, and cook until mushrooms are tender and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the brown rice, followed by the chicken broth. Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 20 minutes.

Finish with Cream

After 20 minutes, add the heavy cream to the skillet and mix gently. Cover again and let it cook for another 5 minutes or until the rice is cooked through. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve

Once cooked, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your creamy, comforting meal!

Enjoy your meal with a side of green salad or your favorite vegetable!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the mushrooms. This will elevate the dish and add a delightful depth to the sauce.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice is not only easy to prepare but also a fantastic meal prep option. You can cook it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Just reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the original creamy texture, as it can thicken slightly upon cooling.

For long-term storage, consider freezing the cooked dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat using the stovetop or microwave, adding extra liquid if necessary for a smooth consistency.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding herbs and spices. A teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish with aromatic dimensions. For a bit of heat, incorporate red pepper flakes when cooking the aromatics. You can also add a splash of white wine after sautéing the onions to deglaze the pan, which adds a layer of acidity that brightens the overall flavor.

If you're a cheese lover, consider stirring in some grated Parmesan or a dollop of cream cheese right before serving. This can enhance the creamy consistency and add a subtle savoriness that complements the mushrooms and chicken beautifully. Also, for a touch of brightness, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can be added at the end, which balances the richness and elevates the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice works wonderfully but may require a longer cooking time. Adjust the liquid and cooking time as needed.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream substitute.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Peas, spinach, or bell peppers would make excellent additions for color and nutrition.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and reheat thoroughly before serving.