This Slow Cooker Mushroom Chicken is a comforting, savory dish with tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce. It’s a perfect recipe for busy days because it requires minimal prep and cooks to perfection in the slow cooker. The flavors of fresh mushrooms, garlic, and herbs blend together beautifully for a delicious meal that can be served over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 package (8 oz) sliced fresh mushrooms
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons water
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
Step 2: Add the Mushrooms and Aromatics
On top of the chicken, add the sliced mushrooms, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sprinkle the dried thyme and dried parsley over the vegetables.
Step 3: Add the Soup and Broth
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth. Stir well to combine, then pour the mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker.
Step 4: Cook in the Slow Cooker
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce. Let the sauce cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, uncovered, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the sauce has thickened, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve the Slow Cooker Mushroom Chicken hot over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes, and enjoy!
Cooking Notes:
- Mushroom Variety: While this recipe uses white or cremini mushrooms, you can substitute them with baby bella mushrooms or a mix of wild mushrooms for added flavor.
- Creamier Sauce: For an even richer sauce, stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or sour cream during the final step before serving.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Ensure your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free, or substitute it with a homemade version if needed.
Variations:
1. Slow Cooker Mushroom Chicken with Bacon
Add cooked and crumbled bacon on top of the chicken before serving for a smoky, savory twist.
2. Mushroom and Spinach Chicken
Stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach during the last 20 minutes of cooking for a boost of nutrition and color.
3. Cheesy Mushroom Chicken
Top the chicken with shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese during the last 10 minutes of cooking, allowing the cheese to melt and create a cheesy crust.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Chicken thighs work well in this recipe and remain tender after slow cooking. Adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, but thighs typically cook at the same rate as chicken breasts.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and store them in the slow cooker insert (covered) in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, simply place the insert in the slow cooker and start cooking.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze any leftover mushroom chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Q: How can I make this dairy-free?
A: To make this recipe dairy-free, replace the cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free version or use coconut milk or a non-dairy cream as a substitute.
This Slow Cooker Mushroom Chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The slow cooker does all the work, creating a rich and creamy mushroom sauce that pairs beautifully with tender chicken breasts. Serve this dish over your favorite sides and enjoy a cozy, home-cooked meal without much effort!
Give this recipe a try and enjoy the savory, comforting flavors of slow-cooked goodness!
