1-First Step: Prepare the Chicken Cut the 2 large chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner cutlets; this helps them cook faster and stay juicy. Season them with salt and pepper to taste, then coat with flour for dredging to get a golden crust. For dietary needs, if you’re gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour here to keep things on track.

2-Second Step: Cook the Chicken Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until it’s golden and nearly done; this usually takes about 8-10 minutes total. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to rest, which locks in the flavors.

3-Third Step: Cook the Mushrooms In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat, then add the 12 ounces sliced mushrooms and 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Stir them around until the moisture evaporates and they turn a nice golden brown, which should take about 5 minutes. Once seared, take the mushrooms out and set them aside with the chicken for later use.

4-Fourth Step: Build the Sauce With the skillet still hot, toss in 3 cloves minced garlic and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard, then stir everything well to combine. Let this mixture simmer and reduce by half over 3-4 minutes, which thickens it up nicely you can adapt this for a lighter version by using less broth if needed.

5-Fifth Step: Add the Cream and Combine Pour in 1 cup heavy or whipping cream and give it a good stir to blend with the sauce. Return the chicken and mushrooms to the skillet, nestling them into the mixture. Let it all cook together for an additional 5 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the sauce thickens to your liking; for variations, if you’re using different proteins, adjust the time accordingly.

6-Final Step: Finish and Serve Once everything is cooked through, taste the sauce and season with more salt and pepper if needed to balance the flavors. Serve your creamy mushroom chicken hot, perhaps over rice or with a side of veggies for a complete meal. This step ensures the dish is ready to enjoy, and you can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra flair if you like.