1-First Step: Start by preparing your chicken. Cut the 2 large chicken breasts in half lengthwise to make four thinner cutlets, which helps them cook evenly and stay tender. Season them with salt and pepper to taste, then coat each piece in flour for dredging to create a nice, golden crust that seals in the juices.

2-Second Step: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. This should take about 1-2 minutes to get hot. Place the chicken in the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until it’s golden brown, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked without drying out.

3-Third Step: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate. In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the 12 ounces of sliced mushrooms and 1/4 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, then cook until the mushrooms release their water and get nicely seared, which takes about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your sauce.

4-Fourth Step: Remove the mushrooms from the pan and set them aside. To the same pan, add 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1/2 cup of chicken broth, 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Stir everything together until the mustard dissolves, then let the mixture simmer and reduce by half, about 2-3 minutes. For an extra tip, you can use a meat thermometer earlier to check the chicken and avoid overcooking.

5-Fifth Step: Pour in 1 cup of heavy or whipping cream and stir to combine. Return the mushrooms and chicken to the pan, making sure everything is coated in the sauce. Cook for another 5 minutes on medium heat until the chicken is fully cooked through and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency. If adapting for dietary needs, like using chicken thighs, add 2-3 more minutes of cooking time.

6-Final Step: Taste the dish and season with more salt and pepper as necessary. Serve your creamy mushroom chicken hot, perhaps alongside simple orange chicken sides for variety, or pair it with rice, mashed potatoes, or veggies for a complete meal. This totals about 10 minutes prep and 20 minutes cook time, making it ideal for busy nights.