If you’re craving a dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and earthy mushrooms all swirled in a rich, velvety sauce, this Creamy Broccoli and Mushroom Chicken Recipe is exactly what your weeknight dinners need. It’s comfort food elevated — simple ingredients come alive with fresh herbs and Parmesan, creating a meal that feels both cozy and luxurious. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe never fails to impress with its luscious texture and well-balanced flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward nailing this dish. Each one plays a vital role, from the juicy chicken breasts that provide hearty protein to the fresh broccoli and mushrooms adding lively texture and earthy tones. The creamy sauce, enriched with Parmesan and Italian seasoning, pulls everything together beautifully.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose uniform size for even cooking and juicy results.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for searing chicken to a perfect golden crust.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Adds a pop of green and a satisfying crunch.
- 8 oz mushrooms (sliced): Brings an earthy depth and tender bite to the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): A burst of fragrant flavor that elevates the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to that irresistibly creamy, silky sauce.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and balances the richness.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp and nutty, it enriches the sauce’s complexity.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A harmonious blend of herbs that tie the dish together.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple but crucial for enhancing all flavors.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Lends a fresh, bright finish and color contrast.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli and Mushroom Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and that wonderful Italian seasoning. This simple coating infuses the chicken with flavor right from the start. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add the chicken. Let it sear undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes per side so it develops a gorgeous golden crust while locking in all the juice. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside — you’ll bring it back to the pan soon to soak up all the creamy goodness.
Step 2: Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced mushrooms. Using the pan drippings ensures the mushrooms pick up leftover chicken flavor, making every bite extra savory. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they’re beautifully browned. Then add the minced garlic and sauté just long enough to release its aromatic punch—about 30 seconds is plenty to keep it fresh and vibrant without burning.
Step 3: Cook Broccoli and Build the Sauce
Next, add the broccoli florets to the skillet. The trick here is to cook the broccoli just until it’s tender but still bright green and slightly crisp, about 2 to 3 minutes. Now pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine all the wonderful flavors and textures. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt slowly into the sauce as it simmers for 3 to 4 minutes. This step is magic — the sauce thickens and becomes luxuriously creamy, coating every element with rich flavor.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer Everything Together
Finally, nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet. Spoon the creamy mushroom and broccoli sauce over each piece, making sure every bite promises both protein and veggie goodness. Lower the heat and let it all simmer together for 2 to 3 more minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up those luscious flavors. Top with chopped parsley right before serving for that fresh finishing touch.
How to Serve Creamy Broccoli and Mushroom Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
The chopped fresh parsley isn’t just for show — it adds a burst of freshness and color that perfectly balances the richness of the sauce. For extra flair, you might also sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten each plate.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Broccoli and Mushroom Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up every drop of the sauce. If you prefer grains, buttery rice or your favorite pasta also complements the dish perfectly, turning it into a full, hearty meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, arrange the chicken breasts on a platter with the broccoli and mushrooms artistically nestled around. Drizzle extra sauce on top and sprinkle generously with fresh parsley. You can offer lemon wedges on the side for guests to customize their flavor or add toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy broccoli and mushroom chicken keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Place it in an airtight container to preserve moisture and flavor. It’s an excellent option for quick lunches or reheated dinners that feel just as satisfying as fresh.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely first. Store the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Keep in mind, the texture of the broccoli may soften slightly after freezing, but the rich flavor remains just as delightful.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the creamy sauce from separating. You can add a splash of chicken broth or cream if it feels too thick. Microwaving works too—just cover the dish to trap moisture and heat in short intervals to keep the chicken tender.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of mushroom for this recipe?
Absolutely! Button mushrooms are common, but cremini or shiitake mushrooms will add even more earthy depth. Just slice them similarly and cook until nicely browned for the best flavor.
Is there a way to make this recipe lower in calories?
Yes, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative to reduce fat content without sacrificing too much creaminess. You can also use less cheese or opt for a reduced-fat Parmesan.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
This Creamy Broccoli and Mushroom Chicken Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your chicken broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Always check labels if gluten sensitivity is a concern.
What can I substitute for Italian seasoning?
If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, mix equal parts dried basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme. This blend captures that signature herb flavor with ease.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). They’ll also feel firm to the touch and have no pink inside when cut. Searing until golden brown and finishing in the sauce ensures juicy, tender results.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Broccoli and Mushroom Chicken Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorite go-to meals because it’s so easy to make yet feels like a special treat every time. The creamy sauce, hearty chicken, and fresh veggies come together in perfect harmony, making it a dish you’ll want to share again and again. Give it a try—you’re going to love how effortlessly impressive and delicious it is!
Print
Creamy Broccoli and Mushroom Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy Broccoli and Mushroom Chicken is a delicious and hearty skillet meal featuring tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection, smothered in a rich sauce of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and chicken broth, with sautéed mushrooms and broccoli florets adding texture and vibrant flavor. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this gluten-free dish combines creamy, savory, and fresh elements for a satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season each side generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 3–4 minutes until they release moisture and begin to brown, adding depth to the dish.
- Add garlic and broccoli: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to release aroma. Then add broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes until they turn bright green and are just tender.
- Create the sauce: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and allow it to thicken slightly for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Return chicken to skillet: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the sauce and vegetables. Simmer everything together for an additional 2–3 minutes to meld flavors and heat the chicken through.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving. Serve warm, ideally alongside rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a lighter, lower-carb version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half to reduce fat content.
- Serve this creamy chicken dish over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to round out the meal.
- To keep it gluten-free, ensure that your chicken broth is gluten-free certified.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.
