Creamy Asiago Mustard Chicken and Mushroom Skillet Recipe

Chicken and Mushroom Skillet in a Creamy Asiago and Mustard Sauce: A One-Pan Wonder

⚖️
Difficulty
Easy

⏲️
Prep Time
15 mins

🕒
Cook Time
25 mins

⏱️
Total Time
40 mins

🍽
Servings
4

Imagine a dinner that feels both decadent and incredibly simple to prepare. This Chicken and Mushroom Skillet in a Creamy Asiago and Mustard Sauce delivers exactly that experience. It is a one-pan meal that transforms humble ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish right on your stovetop. The savory chicken, earthy mushrooms, and sharp, nutty Asiago cheese create a symphony of flavors bound together by a tangy, velvety mustard sauce. Consequently, you get a comforting, elegant meal without the fuss of multiple pots and pans.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its seamless fusion of robust ingredients. Tender chicken breasts nestle among golden-brown mushrooms, all swimming in a sauce that is both rich and brightly acidic. Furthermore, the entire cooking process happens in a single skillet, which means maximum flavor development and minimal cleanup. This dish is the perfect answer for busy weeknights when you crave something special, or for casual weekend entertaining when you want to impress without stress. Ultimately, it is a testament to how a few quality components can create a truly memorable meal.

As the sauce simmers, it thickens into a luxurious glaze that clings perfectly to every piece of chicken and mushroom. The aroma that fills your kitchen is nothing short of intoxicating, promising a meal that is as satisfying to eat as it is to prepare. This Chicken and Mushroom Skillet is more than just dinner; it is a warm, comforting embrace on a plate. It proves that you do not need complicated techniques or a long list of ingredients to create something truly extraordinary for your table.

Quick Recipe Highlights

  • Flavor Profile: This dish boasts a sophisticated balance of savory, tangy, and nutty notes. The earthy mushrooms and succulent chicken provide a deep umami base, while the creamy Asiago and mustard sauce introduces a sharp, piquant kick that cuts through the richness perfectly.
  • Texture: You will experience a wonderful contrast of textures in every bite. The chicken is tender and juicy, the mushrooms offer a meaty bite, and the sauce is luxuriously smooth and velvety, coating each component beautifully for a cohesive mouthfeel.
  • Aroma: While cooking, the skillet releases an irresistible fragrance. The initial scent of searing chicken and garlic gives way to the earthy aroma of sautéed mushrooms, finally melding with the sharp, cheesy tang of the Asiago and mustard sauce as it reduces.
  • Visual Appeal: This dish presents beautifully with golden-brown chicken pieces nestled among glistening mushrooms, all blanketed in a creamy, pale yellow sauce. A final sprinkle of fresh green herbs adds a pop of color that makes the skillet look as good as it tastes.
  • Skill Level Needed: This is an accessible recipe for cooks of all levels, from beginners to experts. The techniques involved—searing, sautéing, and creating a simple pan sauce—are fundamental. Therefore, with careful attention to cooking times, anyone can achieve excellent results.
  • Special Equipment: The only essential tool is a large, oven-safe skillet, preferably cast iron or stainless steel. This ensures even heat distribution for perfect searing and provides enough surface area for the sauce to reduce properly. A sturdy whisk is also helpful for emulsifying the sauce.

Recipe Overview

  • Difficulty Level: We classify this recipe as easy because it relies on straightforward, sequential steps. The primary skills required are basic knife work for prepping ingredients and the ability to manage heat for searing and simmering. There are no complex techniques like tempering or baking, making it a very approachable weeknight meal. The one-pan method also simplifies the process significantly.
  • Category: This dish fits perfectly into the main course category for dinner. It is a protein-centric meal that is substantial enough to stand on its own. Additionally, its comforting nature and rich sauce make it a quintessential comfort food recipe, ideal for cozy family meals or casual gatherings.
  • Cuisine: While not strictly traditional to one region, this skillet dinner draws inspiration from rustic European cooking, particularly Italian and French cuisines. The use of Asiago cheese nods to Northern Italy, and the technique of building a mustard-infused pan sauce is a classic French method. The result is a modern fusion dish with deep roots.
  • Cost: This is a very cost-effective meal to prepare. Chicken breast and mushrooms are typically affordable proteins and vegetables. Asiago cheese, while flavorful, is used in a moderate quantity, and pantry staples like mustard, broth, and cream form the base of the sauce. Overall, it delivers a high-end taste without a high-end price tag.
  • Season: This Chicken and Mushroom Skillet is truly a dish for all seasons. It provides warmth and comfort during the cooler fall and winter months. Conversely, its relatively quick cook time prevents it from overheating the kitchen in the spring and summer, making it a versatile year-round option.
  • Occasion: Its flexibility makes it suitable for a wide range of occasions. It is a quick and satisfying solution for a busy Tuesday night, yet elegant enough for a Friday date night at home or a small dinner party with friends. It is a universally appealing centerpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Mushroom Skillet

First and foremost, the flavor combination is absolutely irresistible. The savory depth from the seared chicken and earthy mushrooms creates a perfect foundation. Meanwhile, the creamy Asiago and mustard sauce introduces a complex tanginess that elevates the entire dish. Each component complements the others, resulting in a harmonious bite that is both rich and bright. Furthermore, the sauce is so delectable that you will find yourself wanting to spoon it over everything on your plate, from the chicken to any accompanying side dishes.

From a practical standpoint, the convenience of this recipe is a major win. As a one-pan meal, it drastically reduces your cleanup time. You sear, sauté, and simmer everything in the same skillet, which not only makes for easy washing but also allows all the delicious browned bits from the chicken and mushrooms to become part of the sauce. This built-in flavor, known as fond, is the secret to a deeply savory sauce. Therefore, you achieve a complex-tasting dish with a straightforward, efficient cooking process.

Nutritionally, this Chicken and Mushroom Skillet offers a well-balanced profile. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle maintenance and satiety. Mushrooms contribute valuable nutrients like B vitamins, selenium, and antioxidants. By using a single pan and controlling the amount of cream and cheese, you can create a sauce that feels indulgent without being overly heavy. It is a meal that satisfies your cravings while still providing substantive nutritional benefits.

This dish also holds tremendous social and entertaining value. It is impressive enough to serve to guests, who will marvel at the restaurant-quality presentation and taste. However, because it comes together so quickly and without stress, you can actually enjoy the company of your friends instead of being stuck in the kitchen. It is a reliable, crowd-pleasing recipe that suits a variety of palates and occasions, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.

Finally, the cost-effectiveness and accessibility of the ingredients cannot be overstated. You do not need to hunt for rare or expensive items. Chicken, mushrooms, cream, mustard, and cheese are staples available at any grocery store. This accessibility means you can whip up this gourmet-tasting meal on a whim. Ultimately, this Chicken and Mushroom Skillet delivers maximum flavor and satisfaction with minimal effort and expense, which is the hallmark of a truly great home-cooked meal.

Historical Background and Cultural Significance

The concept of cooking meat and vegetables in a single vessel is one of the oldest culinary traditions across countless cultures. The skillet meal, in particular, has deep roots in rustic, home-style cooking where efficiency and flavor were paramount. This Chicken and Mushroom Skillet is a modern evolution of that tradition, combining New World ingredients like chicken with Old World techniques and flavors. The method of creating a sauce directly in the pan after searing the main components is a cornerstone of French cuisine, designed to capture every bit of flavor.

Culturally, the combination of chicken and mushrooms appears in various forms around the globe. In Eastern European cooking, it is often found in rich stews and pies. In classic French cuisine, it manifests as dishes like Chicken Fricassée. The use of mustard as a key flavoring agent has strong ties to the culinary regions of Dijon, France, where the condiment has been perfected for centuries. Meanwhile, Asiago cheese brings a distinctly Italian character, hailing from the Veneto region. This dish is therefore a beautiful fusion of European culinary influences adapted for the modern American kitchen.

The evolution of this specific recipe is a story of convenience meeting sophistication. As home cooks began seeking ways to create restaurant-quality meals without professional equipment or excessive time, the one-pan skillet dinner surged in popularity. The addition of creamy elements and bold, sharp flavors like Asiago and mustard allows a simple dish to feel luxurious and complex. This evolution reflects a broader trend in home cooking towards meals that are both practical for weeknights and special enough for entertaining.

Regional variations of this concept are endless. In the American South, a similar skillet might include a cream gravy with black pepper. In Switzerland, it could feature Emmentaler cheese and white wine. The version presented here, with its creamy Asiago and mustard sauce, sits comfortably within a contemporary American fusion style that prioritizes big, balanced flavors and streamlined cooking methods. It is a testament to how classic combinations can be continuously reinvented to suit changing tastes and lifestyles.

Ingredient Deep Dive

Chicken breast is the star protein, valued for its lean profile and mild flavor that acts as a perfect canvas for the sauce. When selecting chicken, look for plump, evenly-sized breasts with a pink hue and no unpleasant odor. For optimal tenderness, you can lightly pound the thicker ends to ensure even cooking. Storage is critical; keep chicken refrigerated at or below 40°F and use within 1-2 days of purchase, or freeze for longer storage. For substitutions, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative, offering more fat and a richer, more forgiving texture during cooking.

Cremini mushrooms, also known as baby bellas, provide a deep, earthy flavor and meaty texture. They are simply a more mature version of the common white button mushroom, containing a denser structure and a richer taste. Nutritionally, they are a good source of B vitamins, selenium, and antioxidants. Select mushrooms that are firm with a smooth surface and closed caps. Avoid any that are slimy or shriveled. Store them in a paper bag in the refrigerator to allow them to breathe. You can easily substitute with white button mushrooms for a milder taste or shiitake mushrooms for a more pronounced, smoky flavor.

Asiago cheese, specifically the Asiago Pressato variety which is younger and better for melting, brings a sharp, nutty, and slightly salty character to the sauce. Originating from the Alpine region of Italy, this cow’s milk cheese is essential for authentic flavor. It grated beautifully and melts into a smooth, creamy consistency. If you cannot find Asiago, a good quality Parmesan or Pecorino Romano can be used, though the flavor will be slightly different—Parmesan is nuttier and Pecorino is saltier and sharper. Always grate your cheese fresh from a block for the best melting quality and flavor, avoiding pre-shredded cheeses which contain anti-caking agents.

Dijon mustard is the engine of flavor in the sauce, providing a sharp, tangy, and complex acidity that cuts through the richness of the cream and cheese. True Dijon mustard from France is made from brown mustard seeds and white wine, contributing to its distinctive clean heat. Its emulsifying properties also help stabilize the sauce. For the best results, use a smooth, high-quality Dijon. Whole grain mustard can be used for a different texture and a more rustic feel, though its flavor is milder. Avoid yellow mustard, as its sharp vinegar taste and turmeric coloring are not suitable for this application. Mustard should be stored in the refrigerator after opening to preserve its pungency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Crowding the Skillet: Adding too much chicken to the pan at once will cause the pieces to steam instead of sear. This prevents the development of a golden-brown crust, which is crucial for flavor. Always cook in batches if necessary to ensure each piece has enough space to properly brown and caramelize.
  • Underseasoning the Chicken: Chicken breast needs adequate seasoning to taste its best. Do not be shy with salt and pepper before searing. Seasoning at this stage ensures the flavor penetrates the meat itself, rather than just sitting on the surface. This is a fundamental step for a well-seasoned final dish.
  • Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns very quickly and becomes bitter, which can ruin the entire sauce. Always add garlic to the pan after you have removed the chicken and lowered the heat. Cook it only for 30-60 seconds until it becomes fragrant, but not browned.
  • Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheeses are coated with potato starch or cellulose to prevent clumping. These additives prevent the cheese from melting smoothly into the sauce, often resulting in a grainy or stringy texture. For a velvety sauce, always grate your Asiago cheese fresh from a block.
  • Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breast can quickly become dry and tough if cooked for too long. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. Remember that the chicken will continue to cook slightly while resting and when added back to the hot sauce.
  • Adding Cold Cream: Introducing cold heavy cream directly to the pan can sometimes cause the sauce to break or seize. For a more stable emulsion, let the cream sit out for 10-15 minutes to take the chill off before adding it to the skillet with the other sauce ingredients.
  • Not Letting the Sauce Simmer: Rushing the sauce by not allowing it to simmer and reduce will result in a thin, runny consistency. A gentle simmer is necessary to cook out the raw flour taste (if used), meld the flavors, and thicken the sauce to a luxurious, coating consistency.
  • Skipping the Fresh Herb Garnish: While it may seem optional, a fresh herb like parsley or thyme added at the end is not just for color. It provides a necessary burst of freshness that brightens the entire rich dish and adds a layer of aromatic complexity that dried herbs cannot match.

Essential Techniques

Proper Searing: Searing is the first and most critical step for building flavor in this Chicken and Mushroom Skillet. The goal is to create a deep, golden-brown crust on the chicken through the Maillard reaction, a chemical process that develops complex savory flavors. To master this, ensure your skillet is properly preheated over medium-high heat before adding the oil. Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels, as moisture is the enemy of browning. Do not move the chicken for the first few minutes; let it develop a crust that releases naturally from the pan. The visual cue for success is a uniform, deep golden color with noticeable browned bits, called fond, left in the pan.

Building a Pan Sauce: Creating the sauce directly in the same skillet used to cook the chicken and mushrooms is the technique that ties the whole dish together. After removing the protein, you use the residual fat and flavorful fond to sauté aromatics like garlic. Then, you deglaze with broth, scraping up all the browned bits. This process dissolves those flavor-packed particles into the liquid. Subsequently, you add the cream and mustard, which emulsify with the pan juices. The sauce must then be simmered gently to reduce and thicken, concentrating the flavors into a velvety, cohesive whole that perfectly complements the main ingredients.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken and Mushroom Skillet

Bring your chicken to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking. This simple step helps the chicken cook more evenly, preventing a scenario where the outside is overcooked while the inside remains underdone. It is a small effort that makes a significant difference in the final texture of the meat.

Invest in an instant-read thermometer. This is the most reliable way to achieve perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every single time. Remove the chicken from the skillet when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F; the residual heat will carry it to the safe temperature of 165°F as it rests.

Do not discard the flavorful fond left in the pan after searing. Those dark, crispy bits are packed with savory flavor and are the foundation of your sauce. When you add the broth, use a wooden spoon or whisk to vigorously scrape the bottom of the pan to dissolve all that goodness into the liquid.

If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce further. Conversely, if it becomes too thick, you can always thin it out with a small additional splash of chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember, sauces are fluid and can be adjusted until the very end.

For the most luxurious texture, finish the sauce with a small pat of cold butter off the heat. After the sauce has thickened and you have added the cheese, swirling in a tablespoon of butter just before serving adds an incredible shine and a silky, restaurant-quality mouthfeel to the dish.

Allow the cooked chicken to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing it. This allows the muscle fibers to relax and reabsorb their juices. If you slice it immediately, those precious juices will run out onto the cutting board, leaving you with drier meat. Resting is non-negotiable for juicy chicken.

Variations and Adaptations

For regional variations, you can take this skillet in many directions. A French-inspired version might use tarragon and white wine in place of the mustard. For an Italian twist, incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and basil, using Parmesan cheese instead of Asiago. An American Southern adaptation could feature a creamy gravy with a hefty dose of black pepper and serve it over biscuits. These changes show how the basic framework of a protein, vegetable, and creamy sauce in one pan is endlessly adaptable to different flavor profiles and culinary traditions.

Seasonal adaptations are simple and effective. In the spring, add fresh peas and asparagus tips during the last few minutes of cooking. During summer, stir in fresh cherry tomatoes and basil for a brighter, lighter feel. For a hearty autumn version, use wild mushrooms like chanterelles or porcini and add a pinch of sage. In the winter, root vegetables like diced parsnips or carrots can be sautéed with the mushrooms for added substance and sweetness. This flexibility ensures the dish remains a go-to recipe throughout the entire year.

Dietary modifications are straightforward. For a gluten-free version, simply ensure your Dijon mustard and chicken broth are certified gluten-free; the recipe is naturally gluten-free otherwise. To make it dairy-free, use a rich, unsweetened plant-based cream like cashew or oat cream and a vegan Parmesan-style cheese. For a lower-carb or Keto option, the recipe is already well-suited, but you can be mindful of any added thickeners. To increase the vegetable content and stretch the meal further, you can add spinach, kale, or zucchini to the skillet when you add the sauce.

Serving and Presentation Guide

Plating this dish effectively enhances the dining experience. For a family-style presentation, serve the entire skillet directly at the table, allowing guests to help themselves. For individual plates, place a bed of your chosen starch—such as mashed potatoes, polenta, or egg noodles—in the center of a shallow bowl. Artfully arrange the sliced chicken and mushrooms over the top, then generously ladle the creamy Asiago and mustard sauce over everything. This method ensures each component is visible and sauced perfectly.

Garnishing is the final touch that elevates the visual appeal and adds a fresh flavor note. A sprinkle of freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley or chives provides a vibrant green contrast against the creamy sauce. For a more aromatic garnish, fresh thyme leaves are an excellent choice. A final light grating of Asiago cheese over the top just before serving reinforces the cheesy theme. If you have them, a few edible flowers like nasturtiums can add a stunning, professional touch for a special occasion.

Traditional accompaniments include starches that can soak up the delicious sauce. Creamy mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or soft polenta are classic choices. For a lighter option, consider cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles. To balance the richness of the dish, always include a simple, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing or a side of steamed green vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or asparagus. The acidity and crunch from these sides provide a perfect counterpoint to the creamy, savory skillet.

Wine and Beverage Pairing

Selecting the right wine can elevate your Chicken and Mushroom Skillet from a great meal to an unforgettable one. The rich, creamy sauce and earthy mushrooms call for a white wine with good acidity to cut through the fat. An unoaked Chardonnay is a classic pairing; its crisp apple and citrus notes provide a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, a French White Burgundy (which is also Chardonnay) offers more complexity and minerality. For red wine lovers, a light-bodied Pinot Noir is the best choice. Its red fruit flavors and earthy undertones complement the mushrooms without overpowering the chicken and sauce.

For non-alcoholic alternatives, consider beverages that offer brightness or effervescence. A sparkling lemonade or a homemade ginger beer provides a zesty, carbonated lift that cleanses the palate between bites. An iced herbal tea, such as rosemary or mint tea, can offer a refreshing and aromatic counterpart to the dish’s richness. Even a simple glass of club soda with a squeeze of lime can be remarkably effective at resetting your taste buds, allowing you to fully appreciate each flavorful mouthful of the skillet.

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality and safety of your leftovers. Allow the Chicken and Mushroom Skillet to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Do not leave it out for more than two hours. Stored correctly in the refrigerator, it will keep for 3-4 days. The sauce may thicken upon cooling; this is normal. The mushrooms will release some of their liquid upon reheating, which will naturally thin the sauce back to a desirable consistency.

Reheating requires a gentle touch to prevent the chicken from becoming tough and the sauce from breaking. The best method is to reheat it slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or water to loosen it. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave using 50% power, stirring every 30 seconds until warmed through. Avoid boiling the sauce during reheating, as high heat can cause it to separate.

Make Ahead Strategies

You can significantly streamline your dinner preparation by employing a few make-ahead strategies. The day before, you can slice the chicken, chop the mushrooms, mince the garlic, and grate the Asiago cheese. Store each component in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This advance prep turns the active cooking time into a simple assembly process. You can also measure out your broth, cream, and mustard so they are ready to go. Having all your ingredients prepped, or “mise en place,” makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

While you can fully assemble the dish a day in advance, the texture of the mushrooms may soften slightly upon reheating. For the best quality, we recommend doing the prep work ahead but executing the final searing and sauce-making just before serving. If you do assemble it completely ahead, gently reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce. For a fresh finish, add any herb garnishes after reheating, not before storing, to preserve their color and vibrant flavor.

Scaling Instructions

This recipe scales beautifully, making it ideal for feeding a crowd or preparing a smaller meal. To halve the recipe, simply divide all ingredient quantities by two. Use a medium skillet instead of a large one to maintain the proper depth for searing and sauce reduction. The cooking times will remain largely the same, though you may need to reduce the sauce simmering time by a minute or two since there is less volume to reduce.

For doubling or tripling the recipe, multiply all ingredients accordingly. The key here is to avoid overcrowding the pan during the searing stage. You will need to sear the chicken in multiple batches to ensure proper browning. Use a very large skillet or a wide Dutch oven to accommodate the increased volume of sauce and ingredients. The simmering time for the sauce may increase slightly as it works to reduce a larger quantity of liquid. Always check for seasoning at the end, as larger batches may require a bit more salt and pepper to taste.

Nutritional Deep Dive

This Chicken and Mushroom Skillet offers a balanced macronutrient profile. The chicken breast provides a high-quality, lean source of protein, essential for muscle repair and satiety. The mushrooms contribute complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, which aid in digestion. The heavy cream and cheese are the primary sources of fat, giving the dish its rich, satisfying mouthfeel and helping to absorb fat-soluble vitamins. While the sauce is indulgent, the portion control inherent in a skillet meal helps manage calorie intake. Overall, it is a meal that provides sustained energy and fullness.

From a micronutrient perspective, this dish is a valuable source of several key nutrients. Chicken is rich in B vitamins, particularly B3 (niacin) and B6, which are crucial for energy metabolism. Mushrooms are one of the few non-animal sources of Vitamin D, especially if they have been exposed to UV light, and they also provide selenium, a powerful antioxidant. Asiago cheese contributes calcium for bone health. Using a moderate amount of cream keeps the saturated fat content in check while still delivering a luxuriously creamy texture. It is a meal that satisfies both the palate and the body’s nutritional needs.

Dietary Adaptations

For a gluten-free version, this recipe is naturally accommodating. Simply double-check that your Dijon mustard and chicken broth are certified gluten-free, as some brands may include additives containing gluten. All other core ingredients—chicken, mushrooms, cream, cheese—are inherently gluten-free. Serve your skillet with a gluten-free starch like mashed potatoes, polenta, or rice to complete the meal. This makes it an excellent and safe option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Creating a dairy-free version requires simple substitutions without sacrificing creaminess. Replace the heavy cream with an unsweetened, rich plant-based alternative such as cashew cream, coconut cream (the culinary kind, not the sweetened beverage), or a high-quality oat cream. For the Asiago cheese, use a vegan Parmesan-style cheese that melts well. Nutritional yeast can also be stirred in at the end to contribute a cheesy, umami flavor. With these swaps, you can enjoy all the comforting qualities of the dish while adhering to a dairy-free diet.

Troubleshooting Guide

If your sauce is too thin, the most likely cause is insufficient reduction. Simply continue to simmer the sauce over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. Remember that the sauce will continue to thicken slightly as it cools. If you are in a hurry, you can create a quick slurry by mixing one teaspoon of cornstarch with one tablespoon of cold water and whisking it into the simmering sauce. Bring it to a brief boil to activate the cornstarch, and it should thicken within a minute.

If your sauce breaks or looks greasy and separated, it is usually due to overheating or adding cold ingredients too quickly. To fix a broken sauce, remove it from the heat immediately. You can try whisking in a tablespoon of cold cream or broth to bring down the temperature and encourage re-emulsification. If that does not work, transfer a small amount of the broken sauce to a separate bowl, whisk in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard until smooth, and then slowly whisk this mixture back into the main sauce. This often works to bring it back together.

Recipe Success Stories

We have received wonderful feedback from our community of home cooks who have tried this Chicken and Mushroom Skillet. One reader, Sarah from Ohio, shared that it has become her go-to meal for impressing dinner guests. She loves that it feels fancy but is deceptively easy to make. Another home cook, Mark, reported that his family, including his picky teenagers, now requests this meal weekly. He appreciates that it is a one-pan dinner, making cleanup a breeze after a long workday. These stories highlight the recipe’s universal appeal and reliability.

Many readers have also enjoyed putting their own spin on the recipe. A common variation is adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth, which we highly recommend. Others have successfully incorporated spinach or kale for added greens, wilting them in at the very end. One creative cook even used this same creamy Asiago and mustard sauce base for a seafood version with scallops and shrimp, reporting fantastic results. We love seeing how this recipe serves as a springboard for culinary creativity and encourages cooks to make it their own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Absolutely. Chicken thighs are an excellent substitute. They are more forgiving and tend to stay juicier, and their richer flavor pairs wonderfully with the mushrooms and creamy sauce. The cooking time may be slightly longer; ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What can I use if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet? No problem. After searing the chicken and mushrooms, you can transfer everything to a baking dish to finish in the oven. Alternatively, you can complete the entire recipe on the stovetop by gently simmering the sauce with the chicken added back in, covered, over low heat until the chicken is cooked through.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can fully prepare it 1-2 days in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. The mushrooms may soften, but the flavor will still be excellent.

Can I freeze the Chicken and Mushroom Skillet? We do not recommend freezing this particular dish. Cream-based sauces have a tendency to separate and become grainy upon thawing and reheating. The texture of the mushrooms and chicken can also become watery and rubbery. It is best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

My sauce is too thick. How can I thin it? This is an easy fix. Simply whisk in additional chicken broth, one tablespoon at a time, over low heat until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. The goal is a sauce that nicely coats the back of a spoon but is still fluid enough to pool on the plate.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? The stovetop is your best bet for reheating. Use a skillet or saucepan over low to medium-low heat, stirring frequently. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon of broth or water. If using a microwave, use 50% power and stir every 30 seconds to heat evenly and prevent the sauce from separating.

Can I use a different type of mushroom? Certainly. While cremini mushrooms are ideal for their meaty texture and flavor, you can use white button mushrooms, shiitake (stems removed), or a blend of wild mushrooms like oyster or chanterelles. Each will impart a slightly different, but equally delicious, earthy character to the dish.

What can I substitute for Asiago cheese? If you cannot find Asiago, a good quality Parmesan cheese is the closest substitute, offering a similar salty, nutty flavor. Pecorino Romano is sharper and saltier but will work in a pinch. For a milder flavor, a freshly grated Fontina would also melt beautifully into the sauce.

Additional Resources

If you loved this Chicken and Mushroom Skillet, you might enjoy exploring other one-pan wonders on our site. Our Skillet Lemon Butter Herb Chicken and Sausage & Peppers are both fantastic recipes that follow a similar, convenient cooking method. For those looking to master foundational skills, our guide on “How to Make a Perfect Pan Sauce” breaks down the technique used in this recipe in even greater detail. Understanding this method will empower you to create countless variations with different proteins and flavor profiles.

For ingredient-specific information, we have deep dives on selecting and storing mushrooms to maximize their shelf life and flavor, as well as a guide to different types of mustard and their culinary uses. If you are in the market for new cookware, a high-quality, heavy-bottomed stainless steel or cast iron skillet is one of the best investments you can make for your kitchen, enabling perfect searing and even heat distribution for recipes just like this one.

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Chicken and Mushroom Skillet in a Creamy Asiago and Mustard Sauce


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  • Author: Chef Billy

Description

Tender chicken and savory mushrooms are simmered in a rich, creamy sauce made with Asiago cheese and a touch of mustard for a comforting one-pan meal.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 8 oz sliced cremini mushrooms
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Asiago cheese
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

  1. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add mushrooms and onion. Sauté until softened and mushrooms release their liquid, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
  6. Stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and grated Asiago cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  7. Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened slightly.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

You can customize the seasonings to taste.

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