Cozy comfort food made easy in your slow cooker!
This dump-and-go crockpot recipe delivers velvety chicken and mushrooms with zero effort. Just layer ingredients, set the cooker, and enjoy!
Perfect for busy weeknights, this high-protein dish needs just 10 minutes of prep. The slow cooker infuses the chicken with rich, umami flavors while keeping it fall-apart tender.
With minimal cleanup and adaptable ingredients, it’s ideal for meal prep or family gatherings. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe special!
Whether you’re a slow cooker novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to make cozy comfort food in minutes?
Why This Recipe Works
Effortless Cooking
No searing or stirring required. Just dump ingredients into the crockpot and walk away!
Heart-Healthy
Low-fat chicken breast and mushrooms create a satisfying, high-protein meal.
Nutrient-Packed
Mushrooms add immune-boosting beta-glucans and earthy depth to every bite.
Flavor Fusion
Garlic, thyme, and Dijon mustard create a complex, savory sauce without heavy cream.
Easy Crockpot Creamy Chicken & Mushroom
Dump, cook, serve—no searing required!
Ingredients
- - 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- - 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- - 1 cup chicken broth
- - 1/2 cup dry white wine (or broth)
- - 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- - 2 tbsp olive oil
- - 2 garlic cloves, minced
- - 1 tsp dried thyme
- - Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Layer Ingredients: Place chicken in crockpot. Top with mushrooms, garlic, thyme, and season with salt and pepper.
💡 Use the "dump and go" method for maximum efficiency!
Add Liquids: Pour in broth, wine, and olive oil. Swirl to coat chicken.
💡 The wine adds depth without making it sweet.
Stir in Mustard: Add Dijon mustard and stir to combine.
💡 Mustard acts as a natural thickener and flavor booster.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until chicken reaches 165°F.
💡 For richest flavor, cook on low all day!
Serve: Shred chicken and spoon over the sauce. Garnish with fresh thyme and serve with rice or crusty bread.
💡 Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts
Boneless, skinless breasts ensure lean, juicy results. For extra flavor, use thighs or a mix.
Substitutions: Bone-in chicken thighs, shredded rotisserie chicken
Mushrooms
Cremini or shiitake add earthy depth. Avoid overly watery varieties like white button.
Substitutions: Porcini, oyster, or portobello mushrooms
Dijon Mustard
Adds tangy brightness and acts as a natural thickener. Avoid sweet mustards like honey or whole grain.
Substitutions: Yellow mustard (less flavor), prepared horseradish
Wine
Dry white wine enhances umami without sweetness. For non-alcoholic version, use additional broth.
Substitutions: Chicken broth, apple cider, or water
Pro Tips for Perfect Crockpot Chicken & Mushrooms
Flavor Boost
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or soy sauce for extra umami depth.
Texture Hack
For crispier edges, transfer chicken to an oven-safe dish and broil for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Make-Ahead Tip
Prepare ingredients up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before cooking.
Slow Cooker Hack
For richer flavor, sauté mushrooms in a pan first before adding to the crockpot.
Variations & Customizations
Cheesy Comfort
Stir in 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère or cheddar during the last hour of cooking for a creamy finish.
Spicy Kick
Add 1 tsp cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for a fiery twist.
Vegetable Boost
Toss in 1 cup chopped carrots or celery with the mushrooms for extra nutrients.
Herb Lover
Swap thyme for rosemary or add a bay leaf for aromatic complexity.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Steamed jasmine rice to soak up the sauce
- Crusty sourdough bread for dipping
- Roasted green beans for a fresh contrast
🍷 Drink Pairings:
A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Noir complements the earthy flavors. For non-alcoholic, try sparkling water with lemon.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare all ingredients up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Cook as directed.
Refrigerator Storage
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezer Storage
Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
For best results, reheat on low heat in a skillet to prevent the sauce from separating.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Why is my sauce watery?
A: Mushrooms release moisture as they cook. Skim excess liquid from the top before serving.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, but increase cooking time by 1-2 hours to ensure the chicken reaches a safe temperature.
Q: How do I thicken the sauce?
A: Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, but use a larger crockpot to maintain proper liquid-to-ingredient ratio.
Final Thoughts
This easy crockpot chicken with mushrooms proves that incredible comfort food doesn’t require hours of work. With minimal effort, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or even meal prepping.
The dump-and-go method makes it ideal for busy cooks, while the rich, savory flavors will impress even the most discerning diners. Don’t forget to serve it with crusty bread or rice to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce!
