Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Creamy Balsamic Chicken & Mushroom Skillet Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 10 reviews

This Creamy Balsamic Chicken & Mushroom Skillet recipe features tender chicken cutlets cooked to golden perfection and simmered in a rich, creamy balsamic sauce with sautéed cremini mushrooms, shallots, and fresh thyme. The luscious sauce, made with cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and chicken broth, adds a tangy and savory flavor profile, making it an effortless yet elegant one-pan meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4 oz. chicken cutlets
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (divided)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper (divided)
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

Sauce & Vegetables

  • 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (divided)
  • 12 oz. cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 1/2 cup shallot, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, thinly sliced
  • 3 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (plus more for garnish)
  • 4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Season Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken cutlets evenly with 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and ground pepper to season them lightly and enhance flavor.
  2. Dredge Chicken in Flour: Place the all-purpose flour in a shallow dish. One cutlet at a time, dredge the chicken in the flour, pressing gently to coat thoroughly and shaking off any excess flour to avoid clumping.
  3. Prepare Chicken for Cooking: Arrange the coated chicken on a large plate and discard any leftover flour to keep the cooking process tidy.
  4. Heat Oil for Searing: In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil to prepare for searing the chicken.
  5. Sear Chicken: Add the chicken cutlets to the skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, until each side is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
  6. Remove Chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and do not wipe the oily residue from the pan, as it will be used to cook the vegetables and sauce.
  7. Cook Mushrooms: Return the skillet to medium-high heat and add the remaining 3 tablespoons of oil. Add the sliced mushrooms and spread them evenly over the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Sauté Aromatics: Stir the mushrooms, then add the thinly sliced shallots, garlic, and fresh thyme leaves. Cook while stirring frequently for 2 to 3 minutes until the shallots become translucent and the mixture is fragrant.
  9. Add Balsamic Vinegar: Stir in the balsamic vinegar and cook for about 1 minute, allowing the mushrooms to absorb the flavorful vinegar.
  10. Add Chicken Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer, which concentrates flavors.
  11. Incorporate Cream Cheese & Mustard: Stir in the softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and ground pepper. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has melted fully creating a creamy sauce.
  12. Return Chicken to Skillet: Place the chicken cutlets back into the pan. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to warm the chicken through and meld the flavors.
  13. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle additional fresh thyme leaves on top as garnish if desired. Serve immediately for a satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe eating.
  • Do not overcrowd the skillet when searing chicken to maintain proper browning.
  • Using low-sodium chicken broth helps control salt levels.
  • Softened cream cheese blends more easily into the sauce for a smooth texture.
  • Fresh thyme adds brightness; dried thyme can be used but use half the amount.
  • Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to make a complete meal.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American