A Simple, Quick Meal Using Chicken Breast and Mushrooms

Tender chicken and earthy mushrooms make for an easy, satisfying dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes.

There's something deeply comforting about chicken and mushrooms cooking together—the way the mushrooms soften and release their moisture, creating a sauce that needs almost nothing to taste complete. It's the kind of meal that feels like you've done something impressive, but it requires just a handful of ingredients and a little attention. Perfect for a weeknight when you want something nourishing without the fuss.

If you're trying to figure out what to make with what you have, you're not alone. Mealmizer was made for this. Try Mealmizer Free

Garlic Mushroom Chicken and Rice

Total Time: 30 minutes • Serves: 2

A simple one-pan dish featuring tender chicken breast with sautéed mushrooms and garlic served over fluffy rice. Quick, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup rice
2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup water

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme, then sear for 6-7 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add rice to the skillet and stir for 2 minutes to lightly toast. Pour in chicken broth and water, stirring well.
Return chicken breasts to the skillet on top of the rice mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes. Slice chicken and serve over the mushroom rice.

Quick Variations

Lighter Option

Skip the rice or use cauliflower rice, and serve the chicken and mushrooms over greens or alongside roasted vegetables. A squeeze of lemon brightens everything without adding heaviness.

Hearty Option

Stir in cream or coconut milk toward the end, and serve over egg noodles or buttered rice for a rich, warming dish. Fresh thyme or a splash of white wine deepens the flavor.

Vegetarian or Flexible Option

Swap chicken for tofu or a hearty white bean to keep the same cooking method and aromatic base. The mushrooms and garlic remain the stars.

Simple Substitutions

Protein Substitutes

Turkey breast or thighs
Pork tenderloin
Firm tofu
White beans or chickpeas
Shrimp

Carb Substitutes

Pasta or egg noodles
Polenta
Mashed potatoes
Farro or barley
Cauliflower rice
Crusty bread for soaking up sauce

Flavor Boosters

Fresh thyme or rosemary
Lemon zest and juice
Soy sauce or tamari
Dijon mustard
A splash of white wine or brandy
Red pepper flakes for warmth

Common Questions

Should I use a specific type of mushroom?

Cremini, button, or cremini mushrooms work beautifully here. Shiitake or oyster mushrooms add deeper, earthier notes if you prefer something more complex. Mix varieties if you have them on hand.

How do I keep chicken breast from drying out?

Cook it over medium to medium-high heat rather than high, and remove it from the pan once it reaches 165°F internally. The mushroom sauce will keep it moist as it finishes cooking.

Can I prep any of this ahead?

Slice the chicken and mince the garlic an hour or two before cooking. Slice the mushrooms just before you begin so they don't release too much moisture and darken.