Creamy Mushroom Chicken And Rice

Name: Creamy Mushroom Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup sliced mushrooms; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Cozy Plate Creations

I adore making Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice on cozy evenings when comfort food is a must. The rich, creamy sauce enveloping tender chicken and fluffy rice creates a dish that's not only satisfying but also delights my taste buds. Each spoonful brings together earthy mushrooms and vibrant seasonings, making it a quick yet indulgent meal suitable for any occasion. My family loves it, and I’m sure yours will too, especially because it comes together in just a little over 30 minutes!

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:17:36.701Z

When I first made Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice, I was amazed at how easily it came together. I sautéed the chicken until golden brown, which added depth of flavor to the dish. The key to achieving that creamy sauce is to let the mushrooms sweat out their moisture before adding the cream. This method intensifies the mushroom flavor, creating a tantalizing base for the rice to absorb.

I also discovered that using a mix of fresh herbs, like thyme and parsley, brightens up the dish, balancing the richness of the sauce. It’s a recipe that effortlessly combines comfort and elegance, making it a go-to for dinner parties or a cozy night in.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that satisfies every craving
Earthy mushrooms add a delightful depth of flavor
Simple ingredients come together for an impressive dish

The Star Ingredients

The chicken breasts in this dish are not just the protein; they act as a canvas for the creamy sauce that coats everything. Boneless, skinless chicken is ideal here because it cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully. When sautéing, aim for golden-brown edges, which takes about 5-7 minutes per side. This searing step isn’t just about color; it adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.

Mushrooms play a pivotal role in creating that comforting earthiness. I recommend using a mix of cremini and button mushrooms for a varied texture and flavor. They should be added after the onions and garlic, allowing them to release their moisture and caramelize slightly, which enriches the creamy sauce. Remember to sauté them until they’re glossy and browned for maximum flavor.

Perfecting the Rice

The rice serves as a foundation, soaking up all the rich flavors from the chicken and sauce. It’s crucial to toast the rice with the mushrooms and aromatics before adding the broth. This simple step enhances the nutty flavor and ensures each grain is well-coated. If you prefer, you could substitute the white rice with brown rice; however, keep in mind that brown rice will require additional cooking time—about 35-40 minutes compared to the 18 minutes for white rice.

While cooking the rice, it’s essential to maintain a gentle simmer; the bubbling broth should not be overly vigorous. A tight-fitting lid can help retain steam and moisture, preventing the rice from drying out. If you notice that the rice seems too dry at the end of the cooking time, adding a splash of additional broth or water can help moisten it.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice not only shines at the dinner table but also makes for great leftovers. To store, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the creaminess, as the sauce can thicken in the fridge.

For a fun twist, consider transforming this dish into a casserole by layering it with some shredded cheese before popping it in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to melt and brown the top. Adding some blanched vegetables like peas or steamed broccoli can also enhance both the flavor and nutritional value, making it a more rounded meal option.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Rice

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother preparation process.

Instructions

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown.

Prepare the Rice

Stir in the rice, mixing it with the mushrooms and aromatics. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18 minutes or until the rice is cooked.

Make the Sauce

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, thyme, and add the previously cooked chicken back to the skillet. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to warm the chicken through and combine the flavors.

Garnish and Serve

Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice!

Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.

Pro Tips

Try adding different vegetables such as spinach or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for alternatives, this recipe is quite flexible. For a lighter option, consider substituting the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that the richness may be slightly diminished, so adjust the seasonings accordingly to maintain flavor balance.

Also, if fresh thyme isn't available, dried thyme can be used in a pinch—just reduce the amount to one teaspoon, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Additionally, feel free to switch the chicken with other proteins like shrimp or turkey, but remember that cooking times will vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.

Serving this Dish

To make the most of this comforting dish, pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. They not only add color but also provide a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the chicken and rice. A light vinaigrette will balance the richness beautifully.

Another great idea is to serve the dish family-style right from the skillet. Placing the entire skillet, still glistening with the creamy sauce, at the center of the table encourages sharing. Don’t forget to provide some crusty bread or toasted garlic bread on the side for sopping up any excess sauce; it’s definitely a crowd-pleaser!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components separately and assemble before serving.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.