Skillet Chicken and Mushrooms in Gravy: A Comforting Classic
Close your eyes for a moment and imagine sitting at the dinner table, as the rich aroma of Skillet Chicken and Mushrooms in Gravy envelops you. The savory scent of garlic mingling with tender chicken and earthy mushrooms creates a comforting warmth that draws you in. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a hug in a bowl, a meal that turns any ordinary evening into something memorable. Inspired by cozy evenings spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, this dish has become a family favorite, perfect for making cherished memories over shared meals. So, if you’re ready to bring a dash of love to your dining table, let’s dive into this easy recipe.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes this Skillet Chicken and Mushrooms in Gravy a beloved dish in my home? It’s simple yet packed with flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and a one-pan cook, you can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of chicken, mushrooms, and a creamy gravy offers a satisfying depth that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
- Versatility: This dish is perfect for any season—serve it with rice in the winter or over fresh greens in summer.
- Comforting and Familiar: Reminiscent of hearty family meals, this recipe brings back warm memories of love and laughter.
- Healthy Option: Swap in lean chicken breasts and add veggies for a nutritious dinner that tastes indulgent.
Ingredient Breakdown
To create this Skillet Chicken and Mushrooms in Gravy, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts (or thighs): 4 medium-sized, boneless, skinless for a lean, easy cook.
- Mushrooms: 8 ounces, sliced (button or cremini work beautifully).
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, to provide a robust flavor base.
- Onion: 1 medium, diced for sweetness.
- Chicken broth: 1 cup, ensuring richness in your gravy.
- Heavy cream (or milk): ½ cup for creaminess (or swap with coconut milk for a dairy-free option).
- Flour: 2 tablespoons to thicken the gravy, you can also use cornstarch for a gluten-free alternative.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and fresh thyme or parsley to taste.
Prep and Cooking Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
This dish is your go-to for a quick dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor—ideal after a long day at work or when hosting friends.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Let it get hot—just enough for the chicken to sizzle when it hits the pan.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This will help create a flavorful crust.
- Sear the Chicken: Place the chicken in the hot skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest on a plate.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then toss in the diced onion. Sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Mushrooms: Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they soften and begin to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Make the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and onions, stirring to coat. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Continue to simmer until the mixture thickens.
- Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and return the chicken to the pan. Let it simmer for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Season with thyme or parsley, serve warm, and enjoy with your favorite sides!
Tips and Creative Variations
- Add Veggies: Incorporate some fresh spinach or peas for added color and nutrition.
- Swap Proteins: Try using turkey or even mushrooms as a vegetarian option—everything works deliciously!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage for a unique twist on flavor.
- Gravy Consistency: Add more broth if you prefer a thinner gravy; less for a heartier sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful Skillet Chicken and Mushrooms in Gravy over a warm bed of fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even nestled beside some roasted vegetables. Picture a cozy family dinner where everyone gathers around the table, laughter filling the air as the rich flavors come to life with each bite. It’s also perfect for potlucks or as a comforting meal for friends on a chilly evening.
Storage and Leftovers
This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. For longer shelf life, freeze in meal-sized portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to rejuvenate the gravy.
Pro Kitchen Secrets
- Sear the Chicken Well: Don’t overcrowd the pan; it helps achieve a nice golden crust.
- Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
- Finishing Touches: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors beautifully!
FAQs
- Can I substitute the cream? Yes! You can use almond milk or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option.
- Is this recipe freezable? Absolutely! Store it in freezer-safe containers for quick meals later.
- How can I reheat leftovers? Gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding extra broth if necessary to restore creaminess.
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can prep the ingredients a day in advance, but I recommend cooking it fresh for the best flavor.
- What should I serve it with? Rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad are all wonderful options to complement this dish.
Conclusion
Now that you’re equipped with all the insights to create your Skillet Chicken and Mushrooms in Gravy, it’s time to inspire joy in your kitchen. As you cook, let your heart lead the way—share this dish with loved ones and watch how it brings everyone together. Whether for a weeknight meal or a festive treat, this comforting classic is sure to create lasting memories. Try it today, and enjoy the delightful journey of flavors!
Contents
Skillet Chicken and Mushrooms in Gravy
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken Breasts or thighs, boneless, skinless Medium-sized for a lean, easy cook.
- 8 ounces Mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work beautifully)
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced Provides a robust flavor base.
- 1 medium Onion, diced Adds sweetness.
- 1 cup Chicken broth Ensures richness in your gravy.
- ½ cup Heavy cream (or milk) Can swap with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- 2 tablespoons Flour To thicken the gravy; cornstarch is a gluten-free alternative.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil For sautéing.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and fresh thyme or parsley To taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until hot.
- Pat the chicken dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the chicken in the hot skillet, cooking for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest.
Cooking
- In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, then toss in the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they soften and begin to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and onions, stirring to coat.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Continue to simmer until thickened.
- Stir in heavy cream and return the chicken to the pan. Simmer for an additional 3 minutes.
- Season with thyme or parsley, serve warm, and enjoy.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest