Creamy Mushroom Chicken Rice

Name: Creamy Mushroom Chicken Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups cooked rice; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh thyme, for garnish

Highlighted under: Soulful Dishes

I absolutely love making Creamy Mushroom Chicken Rice, especially on busy weeknights when I crave something comforting yet simple. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and creamy sauce over fluffy rice comes together beautifully in just one pot. As the flavors meld together, it creates a dish that feels indulgent but won't keep you in the kitchen for hours. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in our household, and I’m excited to share it with you!

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2026-02-10T16:13:35.878Z

When I first tried making Creamy Mushroom Chicken Rice, I wasn’t sure how the flavors would come together. To my surprise, it turned out to be a delightful mix that both my family and I enjoyed immensely. I learned that sautéing the mushrooms until they are golden enhances their flavor and adds depth to the entire dish. This step is crucial and elevates the recipe beyond the ordinary.

Another key to success is using fresh thyme. The herb adds an aromatic touch that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. I often double the amount of mushrooms and serve the dish with a sprinkle of parsley for a touch of freshness. It’s these little adjustments that make this dish a personal favorite!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that's incredibly satisfying
Savory mushrooms that bring a beautiful depth of flavor
Quick and convenient one-pot meal for easy clean-up

The Importance of Sautéing

Sautéing the chicken at the beginning of this recipe is crucial. When you cook the chicken until golden brown, it not only enhances the flavor but also locks in moisture. Aim for a medium heat, allowing about 5-7 minutes for the chicken to cook through. This initial technique sets the stage for a wonderfully rich and savory base for the dish.

After removing the chicken, it's important to use the same skillet for the vegetables. This method captures the tasty drippings left behind, adding depth to your sauce. The fond that builds on the bottom of the skillet will dissolve as you cook the onions and mushrooms, creating a rich amalgam of flavors that permeate the chicken and rice.

Choosing the Right Mushrooms

Cremini mushrooms are an excellent choice for this recipe due to their robust flavor, which stands up beautifully to the creamy sauce. If you're feeling adventurous, you can substitute with shiitake mushrooms for a more pronounced umami flavor or even a mix of wild mushrooms for added complexity. Regardless of your choice, always ensure they're fresh and firm, as this affects the texture of the dish.

When sautéing the mushrooms, don't overcrowd the pan; otherwise, they will steam rather than brown. You'll know they're ready when they turn golden and start to release their moisture, about 5-7 minutes. This critical step boosts their flavor and ensures they contribute a delightful texture to the final dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this mouthwatering dish:

Main Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast, diced
8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups cooked rice
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme, for garnish

Make sure to have these ingredients prepped and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Creamy Mushroom Chicken Rice:

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the onions until translucent, then add the garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms are golden, about 5-7 minutes.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream and stir until combined. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Combine with Rice

Stir in the cooked rice and mix well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Adjust seasoning as necessary.

Serve your Creamy Mushroom Chicken Rice warm, garnished with fresh thyme.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when making the sauce. It enhances the overall taste and pairs beautifully with the mushrooms.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Rice is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare the chicken and mushroom mixture a day in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it on the stove over medium heat before mixing in your pre-cooked rice. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to deepen.

If you have leftovers, store them in a tightly sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the dish has thickened too much. The dish can also be frozen for up to three months; just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cream. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli also complement the flavors beautifully, adding some crunch and freshness to your meal.

For a garnish, fresh thyme not only looks beautiful but adds a fragrant herbal note that elevates the overall dish. If you prefer a bit of heat, sprinkles of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha can provide a pleasant contrast to the creamy elements.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Absolutely! You can use button mushrooms, shiitake, or even a mix of your favorites.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative if you're looking for a lighter option.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving for best results.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking for a spicy kick!