You simply can’t go wrong with this Creamy Mediterranean Chicken and Mushrooms recipe — a wholesome, low-carb, Optavia-friendly meal that’s both quick and indulgent. Juicy chicken breast cutlets simmer in a velvety garlic-infused cream sauce with earthy mushrooms and fragrant Mediterranean spices, creating a dish that feels restaurant-worthy yet takes just minutes to make.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or something elegant enough for guests, this creamy chicken recipe delivers rich flavor without unnecessary carbs. Serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a fully low-carb meal, or with mashed potatoes or egg noodles if you prefer a heartier option. Either way, every bite is comforting, savory, and completely satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish strikes the perfect balance between nutrition and flavor. It’s low in carbohydrates, high in protein, and incredibly filling thanks to the combination of lean chicken and a creamy mushroom sauce. Using Stacey Hawkins’ seasonings brings out vibrant Mediterranean notes that make the dish taste gourmet without any complicated steps. It’s also ideal for meal prep — reheats beautifully and pairs well with a variety of sides.
Key Features
Low carb and Optavia compliant High-protein and balanced fats Ready in just 30 minutes Simple ingredients, big flavor Family and dinner-party approved
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 pounds chicken breast cutlets, sliced or pounded thin 1 teaspoon Stacey Hawkins Dash of Desperation Seasoning 4 teaspoons Roasted Garlic Oil 12 ounces mixed mushrooms, sliced with woody stems removed ½ cup chicken broth ½ cup Half and Half 2 teaspoons Mediterranean Seasoning
Step 1 – Season and Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken cutlets dry with paper towels. Sprinkle them generously with Dash of Desperation Seasoning on both sides. This adds an aromatic blend of herbs, salt, and pepper, ensuring your chicken is flavorful from the start.
Step 2 – Brown the Chicken
Heat the Roasted Garlic Oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 7–10 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should be juicy inside but nicely seared on the outside. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate, cover it lightly with foil, and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3 – Cook the Mushrooms
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. If the pan looks dry, drizzle in a touch more oil. Sprinkle with Dash of Desperation Seasoning and sauté for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown. This step develops rich umami flavor that deepens the sauce later.
Step 4 – Build the Sauce Base
Increase the heat to high and pour in the chicken broth. Stir to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let the broth reduce until it’s mostly evaporated — this intensifies the flavor and concentrates the base of the sauce.
Step 5 – Add the Creamy Element
Reduce the heat back to medium. Pour in the Half and Half, add the Mediterranean Seasoning, and stir in any juices that have accumulated on the chicken plate. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, stirring often, until it thickens and reduces by about half. The sauce should look creamy and coat the back of a spoon.
Step 6 – Combine and Finish
Return the chicken to the skillet, turning each piece to coat it thoroughly in the creamy mushroom sauce. Let it simmer for another 1–2 minutes so the flavors meld together. The chicken will absorb the creamy Mediterranean sauce beautifully, staying tender and flavorful.
Step 7 – Serve and Enjoy
Serve the chicken warm, spooning the rich mushroom sauce generously over each portion. For a low-carb option, pair it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. If you’re not strictly watching carbs, it’s equally delicious over mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or buttered egg noodles.
Flavor Variations
Add chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra Mediterranean flair. For a tangy twist, stir in a squeeze of lemon juice or a spoonful of Greek yogurt before serving. If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
This dish stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or Half and Half if the sauce thickens too much. For meal prep, portion out chicken and sauce into containers with cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb lunch or dinner on the go.
Chef’s Tips for Success
Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the chicken — it helps maintain a nice sear. Use freshly sliced mushrooms for best texture; pre-sliced packaged ones often contain excess moisture. Let the sauce simmer slowly — reducing it intensifies the flavor without curdling the cream. Choose quality seasonings; they make a noticeable difference in flavor depth.
Optavia Lean & Green Counts
Each serving of 7 ounces cooked chicken with one-fourth of the mushroom sauce mixture equals: 1 Leanest 2 Green 2 Healthy Fat 2 Condiments
Why It Fits the Optavia Plan
Optavia-friendly meals focus on balanced nutrition with controlled carbs and healthy fats. This recipe aligns perfectly — the chicken provides lean protein, the Half and Half and olive oil offer healthy fats, and the mushrooms count as greens. It’s a flavorful way to stay on track without feeling deprived.
Health Benefits
This creamy Mediterranean chicken provides over 45 grams of protein per serving, helping you stay full and support muscle maintenance. Mushrooms supply antioxidants and fiber, while the use of Half and Half instead of heavy cream keeps the dish lighter without losing richness. The Mediterranean seasoning adds a heart-healthy boost with herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
Perfect Serving Ideas
Low-carb options: cauliflower rice, roasted zucchini, or spaghetti squash Classic options: pasta, mashed potatoes, or garlic bread Add color: sprinkle with fresh parsley, basil, or lemon zest before serving.
Low Carb Creamy Mediterranean Chicken & Mushrooms
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Calories: 300
Ingredients
2 pounds chicken breast cutlets, sliced or pounded thin 1 tsp Dash of Desperation Seasoning 4 tsp Roasted Garlic Oil 12 oz mixed mushrooms, sliced ½ cup chicken broth ½ cup Half and Half 2 tsp Mediterranean Seasoning
Instructions
Sprinkle chicken with seasoning. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken 7–10 minutes until browned. Remove and keep warm. Add mushrooms to the same pan, season again, and sauté 4 minutes until browned. Increase heat, pour in broth, and cook until mostly evaporated. Lower heat, add Half and Half, Mediterranean Seasoning, and any juices from the chicken plate. Simmer until sauce thickens. Return chicken, coat with sauce, and serve immediately.
Lean & Green Optavia Counts
1 Leanest | 2 Green | 2 Healthy Fat | 2 Condiments
Nutrition per serving (¼ recipe):
Calories: 300 | Fat: 10.3g | Carbs: 4.2g | Fiber: 0.7g | Protein: 45.6g
