When 5 pm hits and your family gathers, the last thing you want is a hard dinner. But, what if a tasty, creamy chicken dish could be ready in under 30 minutes? Welcome to easy cream of mushroom chicken. It’s a simple, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Key Takeaways:
- Ready in under 20 minutes with just 36 grams of protein and 245 calories per serving
- Uses condensed cream of mushroom soup and simple spices for a homemade, yet easy, meal
- Versatile recipe that can be customized with different chicken cuts and mushroom varieties
- Suitable for busy weeknights, providing a comforting and satisfying dinner option
- Pairs well with a variety of sides, including rice, noodles, and roasted vegetables
What Makes This Cream of Mushroom Chicken Special
Cream of Mushroom Chicken is a one-pot wonder. It turns simple chicken breasts and pantry staples into a tasty weeknight dinner. The dish combines tender chicken, rich mushroom sauce, and comforting flavors that everyone will love.
Key Features and Benefits
The recipe uses 3 1/2 pounds of bone-in chicken pieces. This gives the dish a deeper, richer flavor than boneless chicken. The creamy mushroom sauce is made with 8 ounces of fresh mushrooms, onions, and a can of cream of mushroom soup. It also includes 1/2 cup of milk and 1 cup of grated cheese. Adding 1-2 tablespoons of sherry or fortified wine can enhance the sauce’s complexity.
Perfect for Busy Families
This quick weeknight dinner is ready in under an hour. It’s perfect for busy families. The chicken is baked at 425°F for 20 minutes, then flipped and cooked for another 15 minutes until it reaches 155°F. This quick cooking method makes it ideal for hectic weeknights.
Comfort Food at Its Best
The one-pot chicken meal is a comforting dish. It combines the richness of chicken and mushrooms with a creamy sauce. You can customize it with different mushrooms, cheeses, and seasonings. This ensures every bite is full of delicious, comforting flavors.
“This Cream of Mushroom Chicken is the perfect comfort food for busy families. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and sure to become a new family favorite.”
Essential Ingredients for Your Shopping List
To make the tasty Cream of Mushroom Chicken, you’ll need some key items. These can be found at your local grocery store. Here’s what you should add to your shopping list:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – around 6 ounces each for even cooking.
- Cans of cream of mushroom soup – the perfect base for the creamy sauce.
- Evaporated milk – to add richness and creaminess to the dish.
- Butter – for sautéing the onions and mushrooms.
- Fresh onion – a sweet yellow onion or shallot work best.
- Garlic cloves – for aromatic flavor.
- Mushrooms – white or crimini mushrooms, usually purchased pre-sliced for convenience.
- Chicken broth – around 3 cups for the perfect liquid content.
- Seasonings like Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Optional: Balsamic vinegar for added flavor and cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious campbell’s soup recipe. It’s all about the chicken cream of mushroom combo. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best taste.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the perfect easy chicken casserole, you need some key kitchen tools. The right cookware and gadgets make cooking easier and taste better every time.
Must-Have Cookware
- Large skillet or sauté pan: This is where you’ll cook the chicken and veggies.
- Sharp knife: A good chef’s knife is essential for cutting ingredients well.
- Cutting board: You need a strong surface for chopping and prepping.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for the right flavors.
- Whisk: This tool helps mix the creamy mushroom sauce perfectly.
Helpful Kitchen Gadgets
Some extra tools can make making your easy chicken casserole even easier:
- Meat pounder: Flatten the chicken cutlets for even cooking and tenderness.
- Garlic press: Crush garlic easily, adding its flavor to your dish.
- Kitchen scale: A digital scale is great for exact ingredient measurements.
Optional Tools for Better Results
For an even better easy chicken casserole, consider these optional tools:
- Oven-safe skillet: Transfer the dish from stovetop to oven for baking.
- Meat thermometer: Check the chicken’s internal temperature for safety.
- Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal for baking the casserole.
With these tools, you’ll be ready to make a delicious easy chicken casserole that everyone will enjoy.
Easy Cream of Mushroom Chicken: Step-by-Step Instructions
Make a tasty creamy chicken dinner with our easy guide. This one-pot chicken meal is ready in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for when you’re short on time.
- First, season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the chicken until it’s golden brown on both sides. This takes about 9-10 minutes per side. Move the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
- Lower the heat to medium and add some oil to the skillet. Cook the onions and garlic for 2-3 minutes until they smell good.
- Then, add a bit of broth to the pan. This helps loosen any browned bits from the bottom.
- Next, whisk in the milk and cream of mushroom soup until it’s smooth. Add a little balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
- Put the chicken back in the pan. Let it simmer for 5 minutes. This makes the chicken hot and the sauce thickens.
Enjoy your creamy chicken dinner with your favorite sides. Try steamed veggies or a fresh salad. This one-pot chicken meal will quickly become a family favorite!
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 4 (6 oz each) |
| Cremini mushrooms, sliced | 8 oz |
| Onion, diced | 1 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Chicken broth | 1/2 cup |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 (10.5 oz) can |
| Balsamic vinegar | 1 tbsp |
| Parmesan cheese (optional) | 1/2 cup |
“This one-pot chicken meal is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. The creamy, flavorful sauce pairs perfectly with the tender chicken.”
Tips for Perfect Chicken Preparation
Creating the ultimate chicken and mushrooms dish starts with the chicken. Follow a few simple steps to make your easy cream of mushroom chicken juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.
Choosing the Right Chicken Cuts
Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Breasts are lean and healthy, while thighs are richer and tender. If breasts are thick, butterfly or pound them for even cooking.
Proper Seasoning Techniques
- Season the chicken with kosher salt and black pepper to boost flavors.
- Try other herbs and spices like garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning to make it your own.
Temperature Control Tips
- Cook the chicken to 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it moist and tender.
“Properly preparing the chicken is the foundation for a delicious cream of mushroom chicken dish. With a few simple techniques, you can elevate the flavors and texture of your meal.”
Creating the Creamy Mushroom Sauce
The secret to this creamy chicken dinner is the rich mushroom sauce. You’ll mix a can of campbell’s soup recipe with milk or evaporated milk. This makes the sauce velvety and creamy.
Start by cooking onions and garlic in a skillet until they smell great. Next, add sliced Cremini mushrooms (about 230g/8oz). Let them cook until they release their juices and get caramelized, which takes about 5 minutes.
Then, add a bit of chicken broth or white wine to the pan. This helps get all the flavors from the bottom of the pan. After that, mix in the condensed soup and milk. Let it simmer until it’s as thick as you like.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup | 1 can |
| Milk or Evaporated Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Onion, diced | 1 small |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Cremini Mushrooms, sliced | 230g/8oz |
| Chicken Broth or White Wine | 1/4 cup |
| Balsamic Vinegar | 1 tbsp |
The balsamic vinegar adds a touch of acidity to the sauce. It balances the richness and enhances the flavor. Serve the creamy chicken dinner hot. The sauce will thicken as it cools, making it even creamier.
Cooking Time and Temperature Guidelines
To make sure your quick weeknight dinner of easy chicken casserole turns out great, follow these cooking tips.
Oven Method Timing
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, bake the cream of mushroom chicken for 25-30 minutes. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
Remember to cover the dish with foil for the first 20 minutes. This helps keep the moisture in. Then, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes. This step lets the top brown nicely.
Stovetop Cooking Details
For a quicker stovetop method, start by sautéing the chicken breasts over medium-high heat. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until they’re golden.
After searing the chicken, lower the heat to medium-low. Add the mushroom sauce and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend well. The total stovetop cooking time is about 20-25 minutes.
Whether you choose the oven or stovetop, always use a meat thermometer. This ensures the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving. This way, you’ll get a juicy, perfectly cooked quick weeknight dinner or easy chicken casserole.
“Properly cooking chicken to the right temperature is crucial for food safety and achieving the best texture and flavor.”
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Cream of mushroom chicken is a comforting dish that goes well with many sides. Try it over fluffy egg noodles, fragrant basmati rice, or smooth mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, riced cauliflower works great too.
For a fresh touch, add side dishes like steamed green beans, broccoli, or roasted carrots. These add a nice contrast to the rich chicken. Top it with chopped parsley or thyme for extra flavor and a nice look.
Suggested Side Dishes
- Parmesan Risotto: A rich and creamy Italian dish that goes well with creamy mushroom chicken.
- Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes: They’re crispy outside and creamy inside, with a garlic flavor that pairs well.
- Sautéed Spinach with Lemon: A quick and fresh side that complements creamy meals nicely.
- Truffle Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy twist on mashed potatoes, with a rich truffle aroma, perfect for creamy chicken.
Adding different side dishes makes your meal balanced and satisfying. It highlights the comfort and flavor of the creamy mushroom chicken recipe.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Enjoy the easy cream of mushroom chicken any night you want. Don’t let leftovers go to waste. With the right storage and reheating, you can enjoy this dish for days.
To store your easy cream of mushroom chicken, put leftovers in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of milk to the sauce to make it creamy again.
Reheating the easy cream of mushroom chicken is easy. Warm it gently on the stovetop, stirring often. Or, microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round, until hot and creamy.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 4 days |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months |
Follow these tips for storing and reheating easy cream of mushroom chicken. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations
The chicken cream of mushroom dish is both tasty and nutritious. It has about 245 calories, 36g of protein, 7g of carbs, and 7g of fat. It’s packed with protein and has fewer carbs, making it a balanced dinner choice.
If you’re watching your sodium, you can use low-sodium cream of mushroom soup. This way, you can still enjoy the dish without too much salt. You can also choose gluten-free options to make it suitable for more diets.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 245 |
| Protein | 36g |
| Carbohydrates | 7g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Sodium | 538.8mg |
This recipe is great for busy families or anyone looking for a comforting meal. It’s easy to fit into a balanced diet or meet specific dietary needs. The chicken cream of mushroom dish is a tasty and healthy option.
Conclusion
This easy cream of mushroom chicken recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It turns simple ingredients into a comforting meal that everyone will love. It shows that tasty, homemade meals can be quick and easy.
The recipe works well in a crockpot or on the stovetop. It’s great for busy nights because it’s easy to make. It’s full of lean protein, veggies, and a creamy sauce that’s good for you.
You can serve it with egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice. This easy cream of mushroom chicken goes well with many sides. You can also change the ingredients to fit your family’s tastes. It’s a great choice for quick weeknight dinners.