Slow Cooker Mushroom Chicken is the perfect dish for those who crave comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe brings together tender, juicy chicken breasts and a rich, creamy mushroom sauce, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. The result is a satisfying, flavorful meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Best of all, it’s simple to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are the main protein in the dish. The slow cooking process makes them tender and juicy, absorbing the rich flavors of the sauce.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup: This soup forms the creamy base of the sauce, adding depth and richness.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Chicken broth adds moisture and enhances the flavor of the sauce.
- 1 package (8 oz) of sliced fresh mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms bring an earthy, savory flavor to the dish, complementing the creaminess of the sauce.
- 1 small onion, finely diced: Onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with a rich, aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme is an earthy herb that pairs well with mushrooms, adding a layer of complexity to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Parsley adds a touch of freshness to the dish, balancing out the richness of the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors of the ingredients.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, giving it a silky, luxurious texture.
- 3 tablespoons water: Mixed with cornstarch to create a slurry for thickening the sauce.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note to the finished dish.
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Ensure they are in a single layer to cook evenly.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, sliced mushrooms, diced onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Stir well to combine.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, the cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth already contain some salt, so be cautious with the amount you add.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Pour the prepared mushroom sauce over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, making sure they are well-coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked through.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing the cornstarch with water in a small bowl.
- Stir the slurry into the slow cooker, mixing it thoroughly with the sauce. This will help thicken the sauce to a creamy consistency.
- Replace the lid and continue cooking for the remaining 30 minutes.
- Serve:
- Once the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them on serving plates.
- Spoon the creamy mushroom sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-covered.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Mushroom Chicken
- Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms provide a better texture and flavor compared to canned mushrooms. They also release their juices during cooking, adding more depth to the sauce.
- Don’t Skip the Garlic: Garlic is key to achieving that rich, aromatic flavor. Freshly minced garlic is best, but you can also use pre-minced garlic if you’re short on time.
- Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a little more cornstarch slurry. Conversely, if the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a bit more chicken broth.
- Enhance the Creaminess: For an extra creamy sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Slow Cooker Mushroom Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to soak up all that delicious sauce. A side of steamed vegetables, such as green beans or broccoli, adds a nice contrast to the rich, creamy chicken. For a complete meal, consider adding a fresh garden salad and some crusty bread to round out the dinner table.
Slow Cooker Mushroom Chicken is a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare, yet the result is a meal that feels special and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers a comforting, flavorful experience with minimal effort. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors and tender chicken with your favorite sides, and savor the simplicity and deliciousness of this slow cooker classic
