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: 2 cups of cooked rice; 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Favorites

I absolutely love making Creamy Mushroom Chicken Rice on busy weeknights. It combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and creamy rice into a comforting dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. The best part? It comes together in just under an hour, making it perfect for those evenings when I crave a hearty meal without spending all night in the kitchen. Plus, the rich flavors meld beautifully, creating a cozy atmosphere around the dinner table that I truly cherish.

Created by

Cassandra Reed

Last updated on 2026-02-15T01:45:36.459Z

When I first made this Creamy Mushroom Chicken Rice, I was amazed at how the flavors blended together so effortlessly. The key is to sauté the mushrooms first until they're golden brown, which enhances their umami flavor significantly. It’s a step that I never skip because it adds depth to the dish, making it way more delicious.

Another trick I learned is to let the rice absorb the creamy sauce before serving. This little pause allows all the flavors to infuse completely, resulting in a dish that feels luxurious, yet it's simple enough for a weeknight meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy with a delightful mushroom flavor
Comforting and filling, perfect for any time of year
Quick and easy, making dinner a breeze on busy nights

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

The combination of sautéed onions, garlic, and mushrooms forms a robust flavor base for this dish. When cooking the onions and garlic, aim for them to become soft and translucent, which can take about 3-5 minutes. This process not only brings out their natural sweetness but also infuses the olive oil with aromatic flavors. For added depth, consider using a mix of both button and cremini mushrooms, or even switching to shiitake for a more intense umami kick.

The chicken broth plays a crucial role in the sauce's final taste. Opt for low-sodium options to maintain control over salt levels, especially since you’ll be seasoning the chicken and adding cream later. If you're looking to enhance the flavor even further, a splash of white wine can be added after the mushrooms have cooked; allow it to cook off slightly before proceeding with the broth, which will add a wonderful depth to the dish.

For a twist, you can incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the simmering stage. About a teaspoon of dried herbs can equally suffice if fresh ones aren't available. This not only brings brightness but also complements the creamy texture beautifully, making each bite feel luxurious.

Customizing Rice and Creaminess

The rice is a pivotal ingredient in this recipe, absorbing the flavors of the creamy sauce. While white rice is a common choice, you could experiment with brown rice or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. If using brown rice, just be mindful that it requires longer cooking times—about 30-40 minutes on its own—so prepare it in advance.

When it comes to the creaminess factor, heavy cream delivers a rich texture, but there are lighter alternatives if desired. For a healthier spin, half-and-half or coconut milk can work well, though they will slightly alter the flavor profile. If using coconut milk, be cautious of the strong flavor. To maintain a creaminess without the heaviness, consider stirring in some Greek yogurt at the end for a tangy richness without extra calories.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch combined with cold water) can be added just before serving. Allow the dish to simmer for an additional couple of minutes after adding the slurry, watching for the sauce to reach the desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your Creamy Mushroom Chicken Rice:

Ingredients

2 cups of cooked rice
1 pound chicken breast, diced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

With all your ingredients ready, you're one step closer to enjoying this delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Creamy Mushroom Chicken Rice:

Sauté the chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the vegetables

In the same skillet, add the onions and garlic, and sauté until they are translucent. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and continue cooking until they are tender and golden brown.

Make it creamy

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine and serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, mixing it with the sauce. Stir in the cooked rice and let it absorb the creamy sauce for a few minutes. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Enjoy your hearty meal with a side salad or a warm bread!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine before the broth to deglaze the pan and enhance the sauce.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Mushroom Chicken Rice can be a fabulous dish for meal prep. The flavors meld beautifully after a day in the fridge, which can enhance the overall taste. Prepare the recipe and let it cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce as it warms up.

Freezing is another option if you want to prepare it in bulk. Divide the dish into portion-sized containers and freeze for up to 3 months. To ensure the best texture, consider refrigerating overnight before reheating, as this allows for more even heating and prevents the rice from becoming mushy. It's recommended to thaw in the refrigerator for a day before reheating for best results.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the dining experience, serve this dish with a side of steamed green vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, which adds a pop of color and freshness. A light salad with a citrus dressing can also provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness of the main dish.

Additionally, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can add a delightful zing. If you're feeling adventurous, garnish with sautéed spinach or fresh arugula to add a peppery note. These small tweaks not only enhance flavor but also present an inviting plate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is this dish freezable?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, but the sauce may not be as rich.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add peas, spinach, or even bell peppers for extra nutrients and color!