If you love dishes that combine silky, rich sauce with vibrant bursts of flavor, then you are in for a treat with this Creamy Mushroom Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Olives Recipe. It’s a delightful medley where tender chicken breasts swim in a luscious creamy sauce dotted with earthy mushrooms, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and briny olives. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that feels both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re cooking a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is a showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to pull together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white pan with cooked slices of mushrooms spread across it, mixed with small pieces of dark olives and sun-dried tomatoes. The mushrooms are light brown with darker, slightly shiny edges, showing a soft texture. The olives are small, round, and black, while the sun-dried tomatoes add a deep red color, adding texture contrast. The pan surface has light brown caramelized spots from cooking, and the background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is straightforward, but each one plays an essential role in creating those layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so irresistible. Freshness and a good balance of spices elevate the creamy mushroom chicken to a whole new level.

1/3 cup all-purpose flour: This helps to create a light, crispy coating on the chicken and thickens the sauce beautifully.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and vibrant color to the coating.
2 teaspoons dried thyme, divided: Infuses a delicate, earthy aroma that complements the mushrooms perfectly.
2 teaspoons dried oregano, divided: Brings an herbaceous brightness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
1 teaspoon sea salt, divided: Seasoning is key for bringing out the natural flavors of every ingredient.
1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper, divided: Adds just the right touch of sharpness and depth.
1 teaspoon chili flakes: For a mild kick that wakes up your taste buds without overpowering the dish.
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half: These make for perfectly portioned, tender cuts that soak up the sauce.
4 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Essential for searing the chicken and sautéing the veggies to golden perfection.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic’s pungent, sweet warmth is the backbone of the sauce’s flavor.
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes: These bring a tangy, slightly chewy sweetness that makes every bite exciting.
1/3 cup Kalamata olives, sliced: Adds a briny contrast that complements the creamy elements beautifully.
2 cups mushrooms: Earthy and meaty, they soak up the sauce and add hearty texture.
1/2 cup heavy cream: The silky base that makes this sauce decadently creamy without being too heavy.
1/2 cup chicken stock: Keeps the sauce light and flavorful, adding depth without heaviness.
1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated: Adds sharp, nutty richness that melts into the sauce perfectly.
2 cups fresh spinach: Offers a bright, fresh pop of color and subtle flavor to balance the richness.

How to Make Creamy Mushroom Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Olives Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Flour Coating and Season the Chicken

Start by mixing the flour, paprika, 1 teaspoon of thyme, 1 teaspoon of oregano, half the salt, and half the pepper in a shallow bowl. This mixture will give your chicken a flavorful crust and help thicken the sauce later. Then season the chicken with the remaining salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and chili flakes for a well-balanced spice profile that adds depth and a slight kick.

Step 2: Dredge and Sear the Chicken

Coat each chicken breast piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess to avoid clumping. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for about 3-5 minutes on each side, until it’s beautifully golden but not fully cooked through. Transfer them to a plate and set aside, as they will finish cooking in the sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Flavorful Veggies

Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same skillet. Toss in the minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and mushrooms. Let these ingredients toast together for around 3-5 minutes, stirring often so that the garlic doesn’t burn but instead releases its wonderful aroma, while the mushrooms soften and the sun-dried tomatoes rehydrate slightly, creating an irresistible base for your sauce.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken stock, adding the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, fresh spinach, and a pinch more salt and pepper. Stir everything together and allow the sauce to gently simmer until it thickens slightly. The cheese melts into a silky sauce while the spinach wilts, adding vibrant color and a hint of freshness.

Step 5: Finish Cooking the Chicken in the Sauce

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Spoon the sauce over the top and cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it’s tender and juicy. Taste the sauce one last time and adjust any seasonings if needed before serving warm.

How to Serve Creamy Mushroom Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Olives Recipe

In a white pan on a white marbled surface, there are three golden-brown cooked chicken pieces that are thick and seasoned with herbs and spices. The chicken is partially covered with a creamy light beige sauce that has visible slices of brown mushrooms and dark green spinach leaves mixed in. Two small green herb sprigs are placed on top of the chicken and sauce, adding a fresh touch. The sauce looks smooth and rich, pooling around the chicken inside the pan. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To really make this dish pop at the table, sprinkle on some freshly chopped parsley or basil right before serving. The fresh herbs add a fragrant brightness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. A few extra shavings of Parmesan cheese can also add a luxurious finishing touch that brightens every bite.

Side Dishes

This creamy mushroom chicken pairs amazingly well with light sides that soak up the sauce. Think garlic mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even a simple buttered pasta. For a low-carb option, steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans keep things fresh and colorful alongside the richness of the main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant presentation, serve the chicken breasts whole on a large platter draped with sauce and scattered with the mushrooms, tomatoes, and olives. Alternatively, slice the chicken and arrange it like a fan for individual plating, then drizzle the sauce artistically over the top. Layering this dish over a bed of creamy polenta or cauliflower mash can also add a sophisticated twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The sauce will continue to develop flavor, making your next serving just as delightful if not better.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to prepare ahead of time or save portions for later. Place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.

Reheating

Reheat your Creamy Mushroom Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Olives Recipe slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. Adding a splash of chicken stock or cream can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use different types of mushrooms in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix button mushrooms, cremini, or even shiitake to customize the earthy flavor to your liking. Just be sure to slice them evenly for even cooking.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute. This keeps the dish creamy without compromising too much on flavor.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Chicken thighs would work wonderfully here, offering even juicier meat and a richer flavor. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.

How spicy is the dish with chili flakes?

The chili flakes add a gentle warmth that enhances the flavor without being overpowering. You can always adjust the quantity according to your heat preference.

What’s the best way to serve leftovers?

Leftover chicken is fantastic tossed into pasta, layered in sandwiches with fresh greens, or diced into salads for a quick meal. The creamy sauce helps keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Mushroom Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Olives Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again. Its comforting creaminess paired with the bright tang of sun-dried tomatoes and the salty punch of olives creates a truly memorable meal. If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful dinner that feels special yet attainable, this recipe is a fantastic choice. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!