Name: Skillet Chicken with Cream of Mushroom Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (2 large chicken breasts); 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Kosher salt, to taste; Fresh cracked pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon butter; 1/2 cup diced yellow onion; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup chicken broth or dry white wine; 3/4 cup 2% milk; 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup; 1/2 teaspoon balsamic vinegar

Print Recipe· 4.2 from 4 reviews

If you are craving a comforting, flavorful, and wonderfully creamy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Skillet Chicken with Cream of Mushroom Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender chicken breasts get a golden crust before swimming in a rich, garlicky cream of mushroom sauce that is smooth, velvety, and bursting with savory depth. It’s a fantastic weeknight dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you want impressive flavor without fuss. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to dishes to please the whole family and impress guests alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. At the bottom right, three large raw chicken portions with a pale pink color sit stacked on a white plate. Above the chicken, there is an opened can filled with thick white sauce. To the left of the can, a small white bowl holds a mix of spices in separate piles colored green, red, beige, and brown. Above that bowl, another small white bowl is filled with finely chopped garlic, pale yellow in color. To the left of the garlic, a white bowl contains diced white onions. Next to the onions, a white bowl holds a square slice of pale yellow butter. Below the bowls and slightly to the left, a clear measuring cup contains light-colored milk or cream. Finally, to the right of the garlic bowl, a third small white bowl has a golden yellow liquid, likely oil. Everything is arranged carefully for a clear view of the ingredients photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Skillet Chicken with Cream of Mushroom Sauce Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient does its part to build layers of flavor, ensuring a perfect balance between tender, juicy chicken and a luscious creamy sauce that’s full of umami. From herbs and spices that add a fragrant note to the richness of butter and mushrooms, everything is essential here.

1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast: Slicing into thinner pieces helps the chicken cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden crust.
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and ensuring a nice sear without sticking.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Adds herbal warmth and complexity to the chicken’s flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the savory notes and pairs beautifully with fresh garlic in the sauce.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Provides a subtle smoky sweetness and lovely color to the chicken crust.
1 tablespoon butter: Enriches the sauce with a silky texture and depth.
1/2 cup diced yellow onion: Sweetness builds as it sautés, forming the comforting base of the sauce.
6 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for the sauce’s fragrant and appetizing aroma.
1/4 cup chicken broth or dry white wine: Deglazes the pan to capture all those flavorful browned bits.
3/4 cup 2% milk: Adds creaminess while keeping the sauce light.
1 (10.5 ounce) can of cream of mushroom soup: The star ingredient that delivers that rich, creamy mushroom flavor instantly.
1/2 teaspoon balsamic vinegar: A splash to brighten and balance the sauce with a hint of acidity.
Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors perfectly.

How to Make Skillet Chicken with Cream of Mushroom Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces that cook quickly and evenly. Pat them dry and generously season on all sides with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and freshly cracked pepper. This seasoning blend sets the foundation for a beautifully flavored crust.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Cook the chicken pieces for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side, aiming for a dark golden-brown crust that locks in juices. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, adding more oil as needed. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Without cleaning the pan, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the diced onion with a pinch of salt and pepper, sautéing for around 4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds so it doesn’t burn but releases its aroma.

Step 4: Deglaze and Combine

Pour in the chicken broth or dry white wine to deglaze the pan, using a wooden spoon to scrape up all those delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom. This step adds complexity and richness to the sauce. Next, whisk in the milk and cream of mushroom soup until smooth.

Step 5: Simmer and Season

Let the sauce gently simmer over medium-low heat for about 3 minutes until it’s heated through, creamy, and velvety smooth. Stir in the balsamic vinegar, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. This little splash of vinegar helps brighten the flavors and adds a subtle tang.

Step 6: Reintroduce the Chicken

Add the cooked chicken pieces and any juices back into the pan. Let everything warm together for about a minute, ensuring the chicken soaks up some of that luscious sauce.

How to Serve Skillet Chicken with Cream of Mushroom Sauce Recipe

Four cooked chicken breasts with a dark brown, crispy crust and visible herbs are inside a white pan. The chicken breasts show a mix of golden and deep brown colors with some blackened spice spots, creating a textured, slightly rough surface. The white pan has a smooth, clean inside with some charred bits and oil residue around the chicken. The pan's two handles are visible, and it sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the dish’s presentation and taste, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the top. These fresh herbs add a pop of color and a herbaceous note that contrasts beautifully with the rich mushroom sauce. For a little extra indulgence, a light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese is divine.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or steamed rice to soak up that creamy mushroom sauce. For added texture and freshness, serve with a crisp green vegetable like steamed broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a crisp arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties or special occasions, serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of buttery polenta or creamy risotto. Alternatively, plate the chicken atop a slice of toasted rustic bread to create a sophisticated open-faced sandwich. You can also serve individual portions in shallow bowls to highlight the creamy sauce’s appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Skillet Chicken with Cream of Mushroom Sauce Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain the creaminess and texture of both the chicken and sauce.

Freezing

This dish freezes well and is a perfect option for meal prep. Place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat to preserve the texture of the chicken and prevent the cream sauce from separating. Stir occasionally and, if the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to bring it back to that perfect silky consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and offer a bit more juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs tend to cook a little faster.

Is there a dairy-free way to make this recipe?

You can substitute the milk with a plant-based milk like unsweetened almond or oat milk and swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative or olive oil. Just be sure to choose a creamy mushroom soup that fits your dietary needs or make a homemade version.

Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned soup?

Definitely! For a fresher take, sauté 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms with onions and garlic, then add heavy cream or a milk alternative and broth to create your own mushroom sauce. This may take a bit longer but delivers an outstanding flavor.

What should I serve with this skillet chicken?

This dish is beautiful over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, rice, or creamy polenta. Adding a side of green veggies balances the richness and adds freshness to your meal.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure the cream of mushroom soup you choose is gluten-free (many brands offer this). Also, double-check any broth or seasoning blends for hidden gluten and enjoy worry-free.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm skillet meal that combines simplicity with deep, comforting flavor, and this Skillet Chicken with Cream of Mushroom Sauce Recipe hits all those marks effortlessly. Whether you’re whipping this up for a busy weeknight or making it to impress friends, it’s guaranteed to become a cherished favorite. So grab your skillet and enjoy the magic of tender chicken bathed in luscious, creamy mushroom sauce — you deserve this deliciousness on your table!