If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate, my Balsamic Chicken with Mushrooms and Cream Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brings together tender chicken cutlets seared to perfection, paired with earthy cremini mushrooms and enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce that’s both tangy and creamy. The balsamic vinegar adds a hint of sweetness and depth that elevates every bite, making it a true crowd-pleaser for family dinners or even special occasions. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Balsamic Chicken with Mushrooms and Cream Recipe lies in its simplicity — each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture while keeping the cooking process straightforward and enjoyable.
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise: Tender, lean protein that cooks quickly and soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Basic seasonings that bring out all the natural flavors in the chicken and mushrooms.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken to a golden-brown crust without sticking.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps brown the mushrooms perfectly.
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced: Earthy and meaty mushrooms that add depth and texture to the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Aromatic punch that complements the mushrooms and sauce brilliantly.
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A subtle blend of herbs that enhances the savory profile just right.
- ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth): Adds acidity and complexity to the sauce, perfectly balanced by balsamic vinegar.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: The star ingredient that lends a tangy sweetness and beautiful glaze.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce for that perfect creamy coating.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious, silky sauce that wraps around every bite.
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh pop of color and brightness before serving.
How to Make Balsamic Chicken with Mushrooms and Cream Recipe
Step 1: Sear Your Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken cutlets with salt and pepper — seasoning is key to building flavor right from the start. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking, then add the chicken. Cook each side until golden brown and beautifully caramelized, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side. This not only locks in the juiciness but also creates a delectable texture that will contrast perfectly with the sauce. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside to rest.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add sliced cremini mushrooms. Cooking these in the chicken’s leftover flavors is a fantastic way to add even more depth. Let the mushrooms soften and brown for about 5 to 7 minutes—this step brings out their natural umami, enhancing the overall dish in a way that is simply irresistible.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Once the mushrooms are ready, toss in the minced garlic and sprinkle the Italian seasoning. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant, then pour in the white wine and balsamic vinegar. Simmer the mixture until it reduces by about half, concentrating the flavors and creating the perfect base for your creamy sauce.
Step 4: Thicken to Perfection
Mix the cornstarch with a bit of water to make a smooth slurry, then reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the heavy cream and cornstarch slurry to the pan, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens to a rich, silky consistency. This luscious sauce is what makes this Balsamic Chicken with Mushrooms and Cream Recipe utterly comforting and luxurious.
Step 5: Simmer Chicken in Sauce
Return the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes so the chicken finishes cooking through and absorbs those deep, tangy flavors. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed — the sauce should be balanced with a perfect hint of tang, creaminess, and savoriness.
Step 6: Serve
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a touch of color and brightness, then serve immediately while warm, creamy, and inviting. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
How to Serve Balsamic Chicken with Mushrooms and Cream Recipe

Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of vibrant green but also brightens the rich, creamy sauce with its fresh taste. If you want to get fancy, a small drizzle of extra balsamic glaze can elevate the presentation and enhance the tanginess.
Side Dishes
This saucy chicken loves to mingle with tender mashed potatoes or creamy polenta, as they soak up every bit of the luscious sauce. For a lighter option, roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast that balances the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider plating the chicken on a bed of buttered egg noodles for a comforting spin, or scoop the saucy mushrooms and cream over toasted crusty bread for an indulgent appetizer. You can also stack the chicken on a large platter surrounded by colorful sides for family-style serving — it’s always a hit!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Balsamic Chicken with Mushrooms and Cream Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain the sauce’s texture and flavor.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, though the texture of the cream sauce might change slightly after thawing. For best results, freeze in a sturdy container for up to 2 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight to defrost slowly.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from breaking. Adding a splash of cream or broth during reheating helps refresh the sauce and keeps the chicken moist and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe, offering a juicier, more flavorful alternative. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked through.
What kind of mushrooms work best?
Cremini mushrooms are ideal for their firm texture and rich flavor, but you can easily substitute with button mushrooms or even shiitake for a more intense taste.
Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for white wine?
Yes! Chicken broth or vegetable broth makes a perfect non-alcoholic replacement that still provides plenty of savory depth to the sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. The texture will be slightly different but still creamy and delicious.
How do I prevent the cream sauce from splitting?
To keep the sauce smooth, avoid boiling it after adding the cream and cornstarch mixture. Simmer gently on low heat and stir frequently to maintain that luscious texture.
Final Thoughts
This Balsamic Chicken with Mushrooms and Cream Recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients, with the right technique, come together to create something truly memorable and comforting. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or something special to impress your guests, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. I promise it will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your table with happy smiles.
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Balsamic Chicken with Mushrooms and Cream Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Balsamic Chicken recipe features tender seared chicken breasts simmered in a rich and creamy balsamic mushroom sauce. The combination of garlic, Italian seasoning, and a splash of white wine creates a flavorful sauce that is thickened with cream and cornstarch. A perfect quick and elegant dinner, ready in just 30 minutes and serving four people.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
Sauce and Vegetables
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear Chicken: Season the chicken cutlets on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Mushrooms: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the sliced cremini mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and nicely browned, about 5-6 minutes.
- Make Sauce: Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the skillet with the mushrooms, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the white wine and balsamic vinegar, then simmer the mixture until the liquid is reduced by half, about 4-5 minutes.
- Thicken Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water to make a slurry. Reduce the skillet heat to medium, then stir in the heavy cream and the cornstarch slurry. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Simmer Chicken in Sauce: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Simmer everything together for 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately for a flavorful and creamy balsamic chicken dish.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase cornstarch to 1½ teaspoons.
- Dry white wine can be replaced with chicken broth if you want to keep it alcohol-free.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when searing chicken to ensure a good crust forms.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American