There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, creamy dish on a chilly evening. When life gets busy and you crave a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice is the perfect choice. It’s rich, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make—all in one pot!
Growing up, my mother always had a way of making simple ingredients taste like magic. On cold nights, she’d whip up a pot of creamy chicken and rice, filling the house with an aroma so inviting that we’d gather around the table before she even called us. It was cozy, hearty, and full of love—everything comfort food should be.
Now, as life gets busier, I find myself craving those same flavors. But let’s be honest—no one wants to spend hours cooking after a long day. That’s why this one-pot Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice recipe is a lifesaver. It’s quick, simple, and packed with rich, creamy goodness that the whole family will love.
In this recipe, tender chicken thighs, savory mushrooms, and perfectly seasoned rice come together in a luscious, velvety sauce. A touch of garlic, fresh thyme, and a squeeze of lemon elevate the flavors, making every bite taste like pure comfort.
If you love recipes that are easy, flavorful, and made in just one pot, this is about to become your new go-to dinner. Plus, it’s kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and perfect for meal prepping!
Ready to bring a little warmth to your kitchen? Let’s get cooking! 🍲✨
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice
This dish isn’t just another one-pot meal—it’s a game-changer for busy weeknights and cozy weekends alike. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just want something warm and satisfying, here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your meal rotation:
✅ One-Pot Wonder – Less mess, fewer dishes, and maximum flavor in just one pot. Who doesn’t love that?
✅ Rich & Creamy Comfort – The combination of tender chicken, velvety mushroom sauce, and perfectly cooked rice creates the ultimate comfort food experience.
✅ Easy & Foolproof – Simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and no fancy cooking skills required. It’s practically fail-proof!
✅ Satisfying & Filling – A perfect balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats to keep you full and energized.
✅ Customizable – You can swap ingredients to fit your dietary needs, whether it’s using brown rice, adding veggies, or making it even creamier.
✅ Perfect for Meal Prep – This dish stores and reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers or freezer meals.
If you love a meal that warms your soul, fills your belly, and makes your kitchen smell amazing, then you’ll absolutely adore this Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
This Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together for a rich and satisfying dish. Below, we break down each ingredient along with possible substitutions so you can customize the recipe to your liking.
Main Ingredients
🔹 Chicken Thighs – Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender, even after simmering. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but be cautious not to overcook them as they tend to dry out faster.
🔹 Mushrooms – Fresh white button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms add depth and umami flavor. You can also use portobello mushrooms for a heartier bite or even a mix of wild mushrooms for an earthy touch.
🔹 White Rice – This recipe is designed for long-grain white rice, which cooks up fluffy and absorbs flavors beautifully. If you choose brown rice, be prepared to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio since it takes longer to cook.
🔹 Chicken Broth – A low-sodium chicken broth forms the base of the sauce, ensuring the dish remains flavorful without being too salty. For a richer taste, use homemade broth or a good-quality store-bought brand like Better than Bouillon.
🔹 Cream of Mushroom Soup – This is the star ingredient that creates a thick, creamy sauce with deep mushroom flavor. If you prefer a homemade version, you can make a simple mushroom roux with butter, flour, and milk.
🔹 Heavy Cream – A splash of heavy cream at the end makes the dish extra silky and rich. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a touch of creaminess with added protein.
🔹 Garlic & Shallots – Fresh minced garlic and shallots bring a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth. If shallots aren’t available, swap in a sweet yellow onion for a similar flavor.
🔹 Italian Seasoning – A blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary enhances the dish with a fragrant herbaceous note. If you prefer, you can use fresh herbs instead of dried.
🔹 Lemon Juice – A small squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors, balancing out the richness of the sauce.
🔹 Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of Parmesan at the end adds a salty, nutty kick. Feel free to swap it with Pecorino Romano or omit it if needed.
Optional Additions & Variations
Vegetables – Want to boost the nutrition? Add peas, spinach, carrots, or bell peppers for extra color and texture.
Spice It Up – A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of paprika can add a little warmth and complexity.
Gluten-Free Option – Ensure your cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth are gluten-free, and swap regular rice for a gluten-free alternative like wild rice or quinoa.
By choosing high-quality ingredients and making simple swaps, you can tailor this dish to your taste while keeping it rich, creamy, and satisfying.
How to Make Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice
This one-pot recipe is incredibly simple, making it perfect for a stress-free dinner. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and downright comforting.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Season the Chicken
Before cooking, season the chicken thighs generously with:
✅ Italian seasoning
✅ Garlic powder
✅ Salt and black pepper
This ensures the meat is flavorful from the inside out.
2️⃣ Sear the Chicken
🔸 Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
🔸 Once hot, add the chicken thighs and sear them for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step locks in juices and enhances flavor.
🔸 Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.
3️⃣ Sauté the Mushrooms & Shallots
🔸 In the same pot, add sliced mushrooms and chopped shallots.
🔸 Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become golden and aromatic.
🔸 Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
💡 Pro Tip: Scrape up the browned bits from the pan as the mushrooms cook—this adds extra flavor!
4️⃣ Deglaze & Add Rice
🔸 Pour a small amount of chicken broth into the pot to deglaze, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom.
🔸 Stir in the remaining chicken broth, white rice, lemon juice, and fresh thyme.
🔸 Place the seared chicken thighs back into the pot, along with any juices that have collected on the plate.
5️⃣ Simmer Until Tender
🔸 Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
🔸 Cover with a lid and let it cook for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid stirring the rice while it’s cooking, as this can make it mushy.
6️⃣ Stir in the Cream & Serve
🔸 Once the rice is fully cooked, slowly stir in ½ cup of heavy cream, allowing it to absorb and create a velvety texture.
🔸 Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley on top for extra flavor.
Tips for Success: Making the Perfect Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice
Want to take this dish to the next level? Here are some expert tips to ensure your Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice turns out perfectly creamy, flavorful, and satisfying every time.
1️⃣ Use Chicken Thighs for the Best Texture
🔹 Why? Chicken thighs stay juicy and tender even after simmering, while chicken breasts can dry out more easily.
🔹 If you prefer chicken breasts, cut them into large chunks and be careful not to overcook them.
2️⃣ Don’t Stir the Rice While Cooking
🔹 Stirring the rice too much can release excess starch, making the dish too mushy.
🔹 Once the broth and rice are in the pot, simply cover and let it simmer undisturbed until fully cooked.
3️⃣ Adjust the Creaminess to Your Liking
🔹 For extra creamy rice, add up to ½ cup more heavy cream at the end.
🔹 For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk.
4️⃣ Deglaze the Pan for Maximum Flavor
🔹 After sautéing the mushrooms and shallots, pour in a small amount of chicken broth to loosen the flavorful bits stuck to the pan.
🔹 This technique infuses the sauce with deep, savory flavors that make a big difference.
5️⃣ Let the Chicken Rest Before Serving
🔹 Once the dish is done cooking, let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
🔹 This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
6️⃣ Use Fresh Herbs for the Best Taste
🔹 Fresh thyme, parsley, or basil add a pop of freshness and balance out the richness of the dish.
🔹 If using dried herbs, reduce the amount slightly since dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.
7️⃣ Storage & Reheating Tips
✅ Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
✅ Reheating: Warm in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to revive the creaminess.
✅ Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
A Comforting Classic for Every Occasion
There’s a reason Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice has stood the test of time—it’s warm, hearty, and effortlessly delicious. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, meal prep, or a stress-free weeknight meal, this dish delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
With its creamy texture, tender chicken, and rich mushroom-infused sauce, it’s a meal that feels like a warm hug at the dinner table. Plus, with just one pot, cleanup is a breeze—making it even more of a win!
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to save it, share it, and try out some variations to make it your own. And don’t forget to check out our other comfort food recipes to keep your kitchen full of heartwarming meals.
➡️ What’s your favorite way to enjoy Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice? Let us know in the comments!
🔗 Looking for more comforting one-pot meals? Try these next:
✔️ Broccoli Cheddar Soup – Creamy, cheesy, and perfect for chilly nights.
✔️ Slow Cooker Chicken & Rice – A set-it-and-forget-it version of this classic dish.
✔️ Creamy Mushroom Soup – A rich and velvety soup with deep mushroom flavor.
Enjoy your meal, and happy cooking! 🍽️✨
Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice
Equipment
- Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Lid for skillet or Dutch oven
Materials
- 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 oz fresh mushrooms white button or cremini, sliced
- 1 shallot chopped (or 1 small yellow onion)
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper or to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Season chicken thighs with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté mushrooms and shallots for 3–4 minutes until golden. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Deglaze the pot with a small amount of chicken broth, scraping up browned bits.
- Stir in the remaining broth, white rice, lemon juice, and fresh thyme. Return chicken and any juices to the pot.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook on low for 18–20 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid mostly absorbed.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup and heavy cream until fully incorporated.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the top before serving.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions :
Does cream of mushroom go with chicken and rice?
Yes! Cream of mushroom adds a rich, savory flavor and creamy texture to chicken and rice dishes.
What is the best seasoning for chicken and rice?
Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper work well. Add cayenne or chili flakes for heat.
How to make creamy mushroom chicken with rice?
Sauté chicken, cook mushrooms, and mix with cream of mushroom soup. Pour over cooked rice and bake or simmer until creamy.
What to add to chicken and rice to make it creamy?
Use cream of mushroom/chicken soup, heavy cream, sour cream, cream cheese, or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
Can you replace cream of chicken with cream of mushroom?
Yes! It changes the flavor slightly but still works well in casseroles, soups, and sauces.
What is cream of mushroom soup good for?
It’s great for casseroles, soups, sauces, gravies, and as a base for creamy chicken or beef dishes.