Smothered Chicken in Mushroom Sauce – Creamy & Flavorful Recipe

Few meals are as comforting and flavorful as Smothered Chicken in Mushroom Sauce. This dish features tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce infused with garlic, thyme, and Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to make with simple pantry ingredients!

Why You’ll Love This Smothered Chicken Recipe

• Easy to prepare – Ready in just 35 minutes.
• Rich and creamy – A luxurious mushroom sauce elevates the chicken.
• Versatile – Pairs well with pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
• Full of flavor – Garlic, Parmesan, and Dijon mustard create a bold, savory taste.

Ingredients for Smothered Chicken

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Mushroom Sauce:

• 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Smothered Chicken in Mushroom Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika on both sides.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Mushroom Sauce

4. In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and diced onions. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add minced garlic, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 3 minutes.
7. Stir in heavy cream and Dijon mustard, mixing well. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until thickened.
8. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.

Step 3: Smother the Chicken

9. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the mushroom sauce over the top.
10. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

11. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.

Tips for the Best Smothered Chicken

• Use bone-in chicken for extra flavor – Adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Deglaze the pan properly – Scraping up browned bits adds rich depth to the sauce.
• Make it dairy-free – Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese.
• Add extra vegetables – Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini complement the dish.

What to Serve with Smothered Chicken

• Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
• Steamed vegetables (asparagus, green beans, or broccoli)
• Rice or pasta
• Crusty bread to soak up the sauce

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and stay juicy. Adjust the cooking time, as they may take longer.

2. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.

3. Can I freeze smothered chicken?

Yes, but the cream sauce may separate upon reheating. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

4. How do I make the sauce thicker?

For a thicker sauce, add 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons cold water, then stir into the sauce and simmer for 1-2 minutes.

5. What mushrooms work best for this recipe?

Cremini, button, or portobello mushrooms all work well for a rich, earthy flavor.

6. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the chicken first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Conclusion

Smothered Chicken in Mushroom Sauce is the ultimate comfort food—a delicious combination of succulent chicken and creamy, flavorful mushroom sauce. Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner or a meal for guests, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. Try it today and enjoy every bite!

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