Crockpot Cream of Mushroom Chicken

This Easy Crockpot Cream of Mushroom Chicken is a game-changer for anyone looking to whip up a cozy meal without spending all day in the kitchen. Imagine coming home to tender chicken smothered in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce. Sounds dreamy, right? With just a few ingredients and the power of your crockpot, you can create a dinner that feels gourmet but is unbelievably simple to prepare. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something warm and satisfying without the hassle. You can set everything up before heading out, and when you return, dinner is ready and waiting. This dish combines comfort, ease, and flavor, ensuring everyone at the table will be asking for seconds. So, grab your slow cooker and let’s explore this easy and delicious dish together!

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

Why This Recipe Works

This Easy Crockpot Cream of Mushroom Chicken recipe is designed with simplicity and satisfaction in mind. First off, the slow cooking method allows the chicken to become incredibly tender, soaking up the rich flavors as it cooks. The creamy mushroom soup creates a decadent sauce that binds every element together beautifully. You’ll notice how the combination of the chicken, mushrooms, and seasonings melds perfectly over hours. This process enhances the flavor and results in a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Crockpot Cream of Mushroom Chicken

For busy cooks looking for an effortless yet delicious meal, this recipe is a lifesaver. It requires minimal prep time and uses everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Imagine coming home after a long day to a comforting dish that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, the convenience of using a crockpot means you can set it and forget it. While it cooks, you can focus on your family, hobbies, or even relaxation. It’s the kind of recipe that generates smiles at the dinner table and leaves you feeling accomplished without the stress.

Ingredients

For this Easy Crockpot Cream of Mushroom Chicken, you will need:

• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 10.5 ounces chicken stock or water (use the empty soup can for measurement)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (thawed)
• 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

Preparing the Easy Crockpot Cream of Mushroom Chicken

Begin with the Sauce Mixture

First, start by spraying your 5-7 quart slow cooker with some nonstick cooking spray. This prevents the chicken and sauce from sticking, making cleanup easier. Then, add the cream of mushroom soup into the crockpot insert. To measure the liquid, fill the empty soup can with chicken stock (or water). Pour this liquid into the crockpot, and you’re already off to a great start!

Season and Combine Ingredients

Next, it’s time to enhance the flavor. Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and dried thyme directly into the soup mixture. Then, stir everything well to combine. This creates a flavorful base that will infuse into the chicken as it cooks, ensuring that each bite is tasty.

Add Chicken and Mushrooms

Now, place the thawed chicken breasts right into the flavorful soup mixture. This makes sure the chicken absorbs all that deliciousness. Don’t forget to top it off with the sliced mushrooms, too. They’ll infuse additional flavor and add texture to the dish as they cook down.

Crockpot Cooking Time

Once everything is in the crockpot, cover it up and set it to cook. You can choose to go high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-6 hours, depending on your schedule. The goal is for the chicken to be fully cooked and tender, so it practically falls apart when you’re ready to serve.

Thicken the Sauce

After the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the crockpot and let it rest for a few minutes. While it’s resting, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the remaining sauce in the crockpot, and cover it again. This step will help the sauce thicken up nicely, giving it that creamy consistency we all love.

Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken has rested a bit, use two forks to shred it. The meat should be tender and easy to pull apart. Return the shredded chicken to the creamy sauce in the crockpot and mix it all together. You can keep the setting on warm, or serve it immediately for a comforting meal.

Serving Suggestions

When it’s time to serve, there are a few delicious ways you can enjoy this Easy Crockpot Cream of Mushroom Chicken. For a classic approach, serve it over fluffy rice, which soaks up the sauce perfectly. You could also pair it with fresh vegetables for a colorful, nutritious side. If comfort is your goal, why not serve it atop a mound of mashed potatoes? Each option provides a delightful base to complement the creamy chicken.

Tips for Success

For the best results, here are some handy tips:

• Ensure your chicken breasts are completely thawed beforehand for even cooking.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning as you see fit; adding more thyme or some garlic powder can give an extra kick of flavor.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the sauce cook a bit longer with cornstarch until it reaches your desired consistency.

Variations

You can get creative with this recipe by trying out some variations:

• Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• For some extra pop, add green beans or peas during the cooking phase.
• If you want to add depth, a splash of white wine makes a great optional addition to the sauce before cooking.

Pairing Ideas

This Easy Crockpot Cream of Mushroom Chicken pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. And who doesn’t love a side of garlic bread? It’s perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce that flaunts all the flavors you’ve created.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours to ensure they are fully cooked.

2. How can I make this recipe healthier?
Try using low-fat cream of mushroom soup and serving the dish with whole grain rice or quinoa for a nutritious twist.

3. Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned?
Of course! Fresh mushrooms will enhance the flavor and texture, giving the dish an even more homemade taste.

4. Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream of mushroom soup?
Yes, you can use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup or make your own version using coconut milk for a creamy base.

5. How do I store leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but be warned—they’re just as tempting the next day!

This Easy Crockpot Cream of Mushroom Chicken is not just a recipe; it’s a comforting dish designed for convenience and flavor, perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal preparation and wholehearted flavors, it promises satisfaction with every bite. Plus, this dish will surely become a family favorite, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cook. Enjoy!

Print