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 lb chicken breast, diced; 2 cups jasmine rice; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Kitchen Classics

I absolutely love this creamy mushroom chicken rice recipe because it's the perfect comfort food that pairs well with any season. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce enveloping fluffy rice creates a dish that's satisfying and indulgent. I often prepare this on busy weeknights when I want something hearty but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, the vibrant flavors come together with just a few simple ingredients, making it a go-to meal for us.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-02-10T19:17:36.947Z

When I first created this creamy mushroom chicken rice dish, I was aiming for a recipe that captured the essence of cozy home cooking. I sautéed fresh mushrooms in a bit of garlic and butter, letting their flavors develop fully before adding chicken and a splash of cream. The secret is to let the sauce simmer slowly, allowing it to thicken beautifully while gliding over perfectly cooked rice. This creates a delightful experience with every forkful.

After sharing this recipe with friends, they couldn't get enough of it! One tip I love to share is to use a mix of mushroom varieties for added depth of flavor. This not only enhances the creaminess of the sauce but also adds a lovely visual appeal. I hope you enjoy this dish as much as we do!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that clings to every grain of rice
Tender chicken infused with the earthy flavors of mushrooms
A complete meal that’s quick enough for weeknights but special enough for gatherings

Understanding the Ingredients

Choosing the right kind of chicken is crucial for this creamy mushroom chicken rice. I prefer using chicken breasts due to their lean meat and quick cooking time, but thighs work wonderfully too, offering more flavor and moisture. If you decide to use thighs, increase the cooking time slightly, allowing for about 8-10 minutes until they are cooked through and tender.

The heavy cream plays a pivotal role in creating that sumptuous, creamy sauce that envelops the dish. For a lighter alternative, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk; however, keep in mind that the texture and richness will be less pronounced. If you want a dairy-free version, opt for coconut cream, though this will impart a different flavor profile.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Results

To achieve fluffy rice, rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This prevents the rice from clumping together. When cooking, ensure the broth is at a rolling boil before adding the rice. Once you cover the pot and lower the heat, avoid lifting the lid, as the steam needs to remain trapped for proper cooking.

Sautéing the chicken in a single layer is essential! If you overcrowd the skillet, the chicken will steam rather than brown. Aim for a golden-brown color on the chicken (about 6-8 minutes), which adds depth of flavor to the overall dish. If you're using a non-stick skillet, this is an ideal time to add some garlic powder or onion powder for an additional layer of flavor without extra work.

Serving and Storing Your Dish

This creamy mushroom chicken rice is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce and prevent sticking. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and maintain the creamy texture.

For added flair, consider serving this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad. If you’d like to elevate it further, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of truffle oil right before serving for an extra decadent finish!

Ingredients

For the Creamy Mushroom Chicken Rice

1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 cups jasmine rice
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather these ingredients to prepare a delicious meal that your family will rave about!

Steps

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the jasmine rice, cover, and reduce heat. Let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they're soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer until thickened.

Combine Chicken and Rice

Return the chicken to the skillet, mixing well with the mushroom sauce. Add the cooked rice and gently fold everything together. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve and Garnish

Plate the creamy mushroom chicken rice, garnishing with fresh parsley. Enjoy your warm, comforting dish!

Follow these simple steps to bring this delightful dish to the table.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce after cooking the mushrooms. It enhances the depth of flavor perfectly!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lower-carb alternative, you might replace jasmine rice with cauliflower rice. While cooking cauliflower rice, ensure you only heat it briefly to avoid it becoming mushy. Another versatile option is quinoa, which adds a nutty flavor and higher protein content. Adjust the cooking time accordingly; quinoa typically takes about 15 minutes to cook.

For mushroom varieties, you can experiment with shiitake, portobello, or even a mix of wild mushrooms for a more complex flavor. Just be sure to slice them evenly for uniform cooking, and sauté them until they are nicely browned to enhance their umami characteristics in the dish.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

To serve larger groups, simply double the ingredients and use a large skillet or pot to accommodate the increased volume. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly; monitor the chicken closely to ensure it remains juicy. For a smaller portion, halving the recipe works perfectly, allowing you to prepare a delicious meal without any waste.

When adapting for different dietary needs, consider using bone-in, skin-on chicken for richer flavor when cooking for a crowd. Just be aware that the cooking time will increase significantly. A meat thermometer can help confirm doneness; aim for 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the chicken.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine 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 may use half-and-half or a plant-based cream if you're looking for a lighter option.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, peas, or bell peppers make great additions to this creamy dish.

→ How can I store the leftovers?

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