Introduction

Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich, savory flavors of tender chicken, creamy mushroom sauce, and perfectly cooked rice. This dish has been a family favorite for generations, offering a warm, hearty meal that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend dinner with loved ones, this dish checks all the boxes: it’s easy to make, satisfying, and packed with delicious flavors.

What is Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice?

Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice is a one-pot dish that typically features chicken, mushrooms, rice, and a creamy sauce made from a base of cream or milk, with added seasonings for flavor. It’s often made in a skillet or casserole dish, allowing the ingredients to meld together as they cook. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility, making it a go-to meal for home cooks looking for something comforting yet quick to prepare.

While the main ingredients remain the same—chicken, rice, and mushrooms—the dish can be easily customized to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences. The creamy mushroom sauce can be made from scratch or with the help of canned cream of mushroom soup, giving you flexibility depending on your time and resources.

Ingredients for Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice, along with a list of ingredients you’ll need to get started. To make this dish as flavorful as possible, follow this easy-to-read card format, featuring ingredients with relevant emojis for a fun and engaging twist!

Recipe: Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice

Ingredients 📝

Ingredient	Amount	Emoji
Chicken Breast (boneless & skinless)	4 pieces	🍗
Rice (white or brown)	1 cup	🍚
Mushrooms (sliced)	2 cups	🍄
Cream of Mushroom Soup	1 can (10.5 oz)	🥫
Chicken Broth	1 cup	🍲
Onion (chopped)	1 medium	🧅
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves	🧄
Olive Oil or Butter	2 tablespoons	🧈
Heavy Cream	1/2 cup	🥛
Salt and Pepper	To taste	🧂
Thyme (dried or fresh)	1 teaspoon	🌿
Parsley (for garnish)	Optional, 1 tablespoon	🌱

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken 🍗:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme. Sear them in a skillet with olive oil or butter until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes on each side). Set aside.
Cook the Rice 🍚:
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rice according to the package instructions. Set aside.
Make the Mushroom Sauce 🍄:
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil or butter. Sauté the chopped onions 🧅 and garlic 🧄 until softened. Add the sliced mushrooms 🍄 and cook until they release their moisture and turn golden brown.
Add the Liquids 🥫 🍲:
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup 🥫, chicken broth 🍲, and heavy cream 🥛. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Combine Chicken and Rice 🍗🍚:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the creamy mushroom sauce. Add the cooked rice 🍚 and stir to combine. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Garnish and Serve 🌱:
- Sprinkle fresh parsley 🌱 on top for a fresh finish, and serve hot. Enjoy your creamy, comforting dish!

How to Make Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice

Making Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice is a simple, step-by-step process that results in a comforting and satisfying meal. With just a few basic ingredients and one pot, you can create a flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy nights or family gatherings. Here’s how to make it:Prepare the Chicken 🍗

Prepare the Chicken 🍗

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme (or your preferred seasonings). This ensures your chicken will have a delicious flavor from the get-go.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter.
Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
Transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside. It will cook further in the sauce later.

Cook the Rice 🍚

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rice. Use white or brown rice based on your preference. If you’re using white rice, cook it according to the package instructions, typically about 15 minutes. Brown rice will take longer, around 35-40 minutes.

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and set it aside. This will serve as the base for your dish.

Make the Mushroom Sauce 🍄

In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken, add a bit more oil or butter if needed.

First, sauté the chopped onions 🧅 and minced garlic 🧄 over medium heat until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the sliced mushrooms 🍄 to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and turn golden brown, which should take about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally.

Add Liquids and Seasonings 🥫🍲

Now it’s time to create the creamy mushroom sauce:

Stir in the can of cream of mushroom soup 🥫 and 1 cup of chicken broth 🍲.
Add the heavy cream 🥛 for extra richness and stir everything together.
Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme 🌿. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.

Combine Chicken and Rice 🍗🍚

Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Nestle the chicken breasts into the creamy mushroom sauce and let them simmer in the sauce for another 5 minutes. This will allow the chicken to absorb some of the flavors.

Add the cooked rice 🍚 to the skillet, stirring gently to combine everything together. The rice will soak up the delicious mushroom sauce, adding even more flavor to the dish.

Garnish and Serve 🌱

Before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley 🌱 on top for a burst of color and freshness.

Serve the dish hot, and enjoy the comforting flavors of tender chicken, creamy mushroom sauce, and perfectly cooked rice. It’s the perfect meal for any occasion!

Cooking the Chicken

Cooking the chicken perfectly is an essential step in making Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice. The chicken should be tender, juicy, and flavorful, providing the perfect base for the creamy mushroom sauce. Here’s how to do it:

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking the Chicken 🍗

1. Choose the Right Chicken

For this dish, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best. They cook quickly, stay moist, and absorb the flavor of the sauce beautifully. If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, which offer a slightly richer flavor.

2. Season the Chicken

Before cooking, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried thyme (or any other seasonings you like, such as garlic powder, paprika, or onion powder). The seasoning will help enhance the flavor of the chicken, making it more delicious.

3. Heat the Pan

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add about 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter to the pan. Wait until the oil is hot and shimmering, or until the butter melts and starts to bubble slightly.

4. Sear the Chicken

Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the chicken to cook unevenly. If you’re cooking multiple pieces, work in batches.

Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes on one side without moving it. This will create a golden-brown crust and seal in the juices.
Flip the chicken over and reduce the heat to medium. Cook for another 5-6 minutes on the other side, or until the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

5. Rest the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken stays moist and tender when you slice it.

6. Slice and Set Aside

After resting, slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces, depending on your preference. Set the chicken aside while you prepare the mushroom sauce and rice.

The Cream Sauce: Making It from Scratch

Making a creamy mushroom sauce from scratch for your Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice elevates the dish to a whole new level. By using fresh ingredients and a few simple techniques, you can create a rich, velvety sauce that perfectly complements the chicken and rice. Here’s how to make the sauce from scratch:

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Cream Sauce 🍄🥛

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add about 1-2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil. Once the fat has melted, add the chopped onion 🧅 and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic 🧄 and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Sautéing the onion and garlic in butter or oil forms the base of the sauce, infusing it with savory flavor.

2. Cook the Mushrooms

Next, add the sliced mushrooms 🍄 to the skillet. Use about 2 cups of fresh mushrooms, preferably white button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms for a deeper flavor.

Stir the mushrooms occasionally and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and release their moisture. You’ll notice the mushrooms turning golden brown and reducing in size as they cook. This step is key for enhancing the earthy flavor of the mushrooms.

3. Add Flour to Thicken

To create the creamy texture, you’ll need to add a little flour. This helps thicken the sauce as it simmers. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the cooked mushrooms. Stir well to coat the mushrooms in the flour.

Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to toast slightly. This helps eliminate the raw taste of the flour and gives the sauce more depth.

4. Pour in the Liquids

Once the flour is cooked, it’s time to add the liquids to create a smooth, creamy sauce.

Slowly pour in 1 cup of chicken broth 🍲 while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
After the broth is incorporated, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream 🥛 for richness and smoothness.

Continue stirring as the mixture heats up and begins to thicken. Bring the sauce to a simmer, allowing it to bubble gently for 5-7 minutes, until it reaches the desired consistency. If it becomes too thick, you can add a splash more broth or cream to loosen it up.

5. Season the Sauce

Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt and pepper 🧂 to taste, and sprinkle in a pinch of dried thyme 🌿 or any herbs you prefer for extra flavor. Fresh parsley can also be added at this stage for a burst of freshness.

If you want a more decadent sauce, you can also add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy, savory twist.

6. Finish with a Touch of Freshness

For a final touch, stir in some fresh parsley 🌱 or fresh thyme to add color and flavor to the sauce. This makes the dish visually appealing and adds a fragrant, fresh note to the rich, creamy sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice, it’s easy to make small mistakes that can affect the flavor or texture of the dish. To ensure that your meal turns out perfectly every time, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Overcooking the Chicken 🍗

One of the most common mistakes is overcooking the chicken. If the chicken is left in the pan for too long, it can become dry and tough, which can ruin the dish.

Tip: Always cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and no further. If you’re unsure, using a meat thermometer can help you avoid overcooking.

2. Not Sautéing the Mushrooms Long Enough 🍄

Mushrooms release a lot of moisture when cooked, and if they aren’t sautéed long enough, they can end up soggy and bland, which will affect the overall flavor of the sauce.

Tip: Cook the mushrooms for at least 5-7 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to turn golden brown. This step helps intensify their flavor and creates a better texture for the sauce.

3. Using Low-Quality or Thin Cream 🥛

If you use low-fat or thin cream, the sauce may lack the rich, velvety texture that’s essential for a great cream of mushroom sauce. Thin cream won’t create the desired consistency and might make the sauce too watery.

Tip: Use heavy cream or whipping cream for a thick, luxurious sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter version, try half-and-half as a substitute, but avoid using skim milk, as it won’t give you the same creamy result.

4. Not Letting the Flour Cook Long Enough 🍽️

The flour added to the mushroom mixture helps thicken the sauce. If you don’t cook it for long enough, it can create a raw, floury taste that will affect the overall flavor.

Tip: Once the flour is added to the pan, cook it for about 1-2 minutes before adding the liquids. This will allow the flour to toast slightly and remove any raw flour taste.

5. Skipping the Resting Time for the Chicken 🍗

Many people are tempted to cut into the chicken immediately after cooking, but this can cause the juices to escape, making the meat dry.

Tip: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This gives the juices time to redistribute, ensuring your chicken remains moist and tender.

6. Adding the Rice Too Early 🍚

If you add the rice too early into the sauce, it can become mushy and lose its texture. Rice should be added only after the sauce has thickened and the chicken has been combined.

Tip: Add the cooked rice at the end, after the sauce has thickened and the chicken is ready. Stir gently to combine and let the rice soak up the sauce.

7. Not Tasting and Adjusting the Seasoning 🧂

A common mistake is to skip the final seasoning adjustments. While the dish may taste good, it might be lacking in some areas, such as salt, pepper, or herbs.

Tip: Always taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch more salt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can really elevate the dish.

8. Overcrowding the Pan 🍳

If you try to cook too much chicken or mushrooms in the skillet at once, they won’t sear properly, and the dish will lack the depth of flavor that comes from properly browning the ingredients.

Tip: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary and give the mushrooms plenty of room in the pan to cook and brown. This ensures that the flavors develop fully.

9. Not Stirring the Sauce Enough 🍲

Sometimes, when making a sauce, people forget to stir it constantly, which can cause it to stick to the bottom of the pan and burn. This can affect both the flavor and texture of the sauce.

Tip: Stir the sauce often while it’s simmering to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t burn. This also helps the sauce maintain its smooth consistency.

10. Using Pre-Cooked Rice 🍚

While it may seem convenient to use pre-cooked rice or leftover rice, it often doesn’t absorb the sauce properly, and the texture can become clumpy or dry.

Tip: Always cook fresh rice and let it sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow it to fluff up. Then, add it to the skillet with the sauce to ensure the rice absorbs all the flavors.

I apologize for the inconvenience. Here are updated, functional outbound links that will add value to your content on Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice:

Nutritional Benefits of Mushrooms:
- Health Benefits of Mushrooms – WebMD
Chicken Recipes Collection:
- Chicken Recipes – Food Network
The Science Behind Resting Meat:
- Why Resting Meat is Important – Serious Eats
How to Sauté Properly:
- Sautéing Tips – The Kitchn
Making Cream Sauces from Scratch:
- How to Make Cream Sauces – The Spruce Eats