After a long day filled with meetings and deadlines, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I’ve fallen in love with this One-Pan Chicken with Green Beans and Mushrooms recipe. Imagine a meal that offers tender, buttery chicken thighs mingled with vibrant green beans and earthy mushrooms, all smothered in a heavenly creamy sauce—all coming together in just 30 minutes!
This dish is perfect for anyone tired of the same old fast-food routine or looking for an easy weeknight dinner that feels like a gourmet treat. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, the delightful aromas and fresh flavors are bound to impress. Plus, with just one skillet to clean, it’s as convenient as it is delicious! Ready to elevate your weeknight meals without the hassle? Let’s dive into this quick and easy recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Why is One Skillet Chicken a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: With just one skillet, clean-up is a breeze.
Quick preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table.
Flavor explosion: The creamy mushroom sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken and crisp green beans.
Versatile options: Easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand!
Crowd-pleaser: This dish is sure to impress anyone, from picky eaters to foodies.
Make your weeknight cooking enjoyable again with this fantastic recipe that brings joy to your table!
One Skillet Chicken Ingredients
-
For the Chicken
-
Boneless skinless chicken thighs – The tender choice that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
-
Salt and lemon pepper – Enhance the dish’s flavor with this simple seasoning duo.
-
For the Sauce
-
Butter – Adds richness to the creamy mushroom sauce; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
-
Garlic – Brings an aromatic base; feel free to swap in garlic powder if you’re in a pinch.
-
Onion powder – Imparts depth and enhances the overall taste; fresh onions can do the trick as well.
-
Mushrooms – The star of your creamy mushroom sauce; cremini or button mushrooms work wonders here.
-
Heavy cream – Creates that dreamy, velvety sauce; for a lighter version, opt for half-and-half mixed with flour.
-
Parmesan cheese – Adds creaminess and a slight tang; use coconut cream to make it dairy-free, omitting cheese.
-
For the Veggies
-
French green beans – Provides a crisp texture and bright color; asparagus is a perfect substitute if needed.
-
For the Broth
-
Chicken broth – Moisture and flavor base that makes everything come together; vegetable broth or white wine can be substituted for a twist!
By using this simple selection of ingredients, you’ll transform your weeknight dinners into a gourmet experience with this one skillet chicken creation!
How to Make One Skillet Chicken
-
Prep the Green Beans: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine French green beans with a splash of water. Microwave for 8-10 minutes until they are almost tender but still crisp—this ensures they maintain their vibrant color and texture.
-
Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken thighs, seasoned with salt and lemon pepper. Cook for about 4 minutes on each side, until slightly browned and cooked through.
-
Add Flavor: Incorporate minced garlic, onion powder, precooked green beans, and sliced mushrooms into the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and everything is fragrant.
-
Create the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, allowing the mixture to bubble. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes until it thickens—aim for a velvety texture that clings beautifully to the chicken.
-
Finish with Cheese: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste. This will enrich the sauce and enhance all those wonderful flavors.
-
Serve and Garnish: Transfer the One Skillet Chicken to a serving dish, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy warm or even chilled as a leftover!
Optional: Serve over buttery mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for One Skillet Chicken
-
Prepping Beans Perfectly: Steam green beans until just tender, preserving their crunch. Overcooking can lead to mushy beans that lose their vibrancy.
-
Seasoning the Chicken: Don’t skip the salt and lemon pepper! Properly seasoning the chicken thighs ensures they are flavorful and perfectly balanced in taste.
-
Thickening the Sauce: If your sauce is too runny, mix a bit of cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir it in slowly to thicken without the raw cornstarch flavor.
-
Choosing Mushrooms: Opt for cremini or button mushrooms for the best umami flavor in your creamy mushroom sauce. Avoid using dried mushrooms, which can be overly chewy and alter the sauce’s texture.
-
Cooking Timing: Ensure to cut chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking. Uneven sizes can lead to some pieces being undercooked while others become dry.
-
Storage Tips: The One Skillet Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but if there are leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy sauce’s texture.
What to Serve with One-Pan Chicken and Green Beans in Creamy Mushroom Sauce?
To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing this comforting dish with sides that enhance its rich flavors and textures.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery mashed potatoes provide a smooth, rich base that perfectly complements the creamy mushroom sauce. A spoonful of sauce over the potatoes is truly irresistible!
-
Garlic Bread: The warm, crusty texture of garlic bread makes it a fantastic choice to soak up every drop of that delectable sauce. Plus, the garlic flavor adds a delightful kick.
-
Side Salad: A fresh, crisp side salad with a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the dish, adding a refreshing element and balancing out the flavors beautifully.
-
Roasted Asparagus: Tender, caramelized asparagus pairs perfectly with the chicken, complementing its earthy mushroom flavor while adding a touch of elegance to your plate.
-
Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant, green side adds a pop of color and a healthy crunch, making it a light and nutritious partner to your creamy casserole.
-
Sparkling White Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling white wine elevates the entire dining experience, complementing both the chicken and creamy components with its lively acidity.
-
Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a light and airy chocolate mousse, offering a luxurious contrast to the savory main course.
Crafting the perfect meal becomes an enjoyable culinary adventure, inviting you and your loved ones to savor every bite.
Make Ahead Options
These One Skillet Chicken and Green Beans in Creamy Mushroom Sauce are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken, green beans, and mushroom sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply season and sear the chicken, then sauté the vegetables together in the creamy sauce, allowing them to cool before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the mixture on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain that silky texture. This way, you’ll have a delightful, home-cooked meal just waiting for you, saving time and effort when hunger strikes!
One Skillet Chicken Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity and personalize this dish with delightful twists and substitutions!
-
Vegetable Swap: Substitute French green beans with asparagus or zucchini for a fresh take.
-
Cheese Change: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or feta for a unique flavor twist. Each cheese brings its own character!
-
Add Crispy Bacon: Toss in crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish. The crunch from bacon complements the creaminess beautifully.
-
Creamy Mushroom Mix: Mix in different mushroom varieties such as shiitake or portobello for depth and layer of flavors that excite the palate.
-
Greek Yogurt Finish: For a tangy twist, replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt. Just mix it in at the end for a creamy consistency without the heaviness.
-
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a pleasant heat that warms the soul.
-
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the cooking process for an aromatic experience that sings of fresh flavors.
-
Nutty Upgrade: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pine nuts or walnuts over the dish before serving for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. This adds a lovely dimension to your meal!
How to Store and Freeze One Skillet Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftover One Skillet Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess if needed.
Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing this dish, as ingredients with cream and mushrooms may alter in texture when thawed. Enjoy fresh for the best experience!
Airtight Tips: If you’ve already prepared the dish and need to freeze, consider omitting the cream until you’re ready to serve, maintaining a better texture upon reheating.
One Skillet Chicken with Green Beans and Mushrooms Recipe FAQs
What type of mushrooms should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using cremini or button mushrooms for the best umami flavor in your creamy mushroom sauce. They provide a tender texture and blend beautifully with the other ingredients. Avoid dried mushrooms, as they can be overly chewy and may affect the sauce’s creamy consistency.
How should I store leftovers of One Skillet Chicken?
To store leftover One Skillet Chicken, place it in an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Before sealing, make sure it’s cooled to maintain the dish’s quality. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve that delicious creamy sauce!
Can I freeze One Skillet Chicken?
While it’s best to avoid freezing this dish due to the cream and mushroom content—which can alter in texture when thawed—if you must freeze, it’s advisable to omit the heavy cream at first. You can add it once you reheat the dish, which helps maintain a better consistency when served.
How can I ensure my green beans are cooked perfectly?
For perfectly cooked green beans that retain their crunch, steam them in a microwave-safe bowl with a small amount of water for about 8-10 minutes until they are just tender but not mushy. This method preserves their vibrant color and crisp texture.
What can I substitute if I have food allergies or dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for substitutions, you can use margarine instead of butter for a dairy-free option. For a lighter creamy sauce, you can mix half-and-half with flour instead of using heavy cream. If you need a gluten-free alternative, make sure to choose a gluten-free chicken broth and check that your seasonings are gluten-free as well.
What if my sauce comes out too thin?
If you find your sauce is too thin, no worries! Simply mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Stir this slurry into the sauce and let it simmer briefly. This will thicken it up nicely without leaving any raw cornstarch flavor behind!
One Skillet Chicken with Green Beans and Mushrooms Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine French green beans with a splash of water. Microwave for 8-10 minutes until they are almost tender but still crisp.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken thighs, seasoned with salt and lemon pepper. Cook for about 4 minutes on each side, until slightly browned and cooked through.
- Incorporate minced garlic, onion powder, precooked green beans, and sliced mushrooms into the skillet. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, allowing the mixture to bubble. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer until it thickens.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the One Skillet Chicken to a serving dish, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm.