Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken

Name: Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved to make 4 thin fillets); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 8 oz mushrooms (sliced); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh parsley (for garnish)

This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken is a rich, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy garlic mushroom sauce. It’s an easy, restaurant-quality meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make in one pan
Rich, creamy, and packed with garlic and mushroom flavors
Pairs well with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes
A great way to elevate simple ingredients into a gourmet meal
Perfect for meal prep and reheating

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Salt and black pepper
Garlic powder
Olive oil or butter
Mushrooms, sliced
Garlic, minced
Heavy cream
Chicken broth
Parmesan cheese, grated
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Directions

Season the chicken: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Cook the mushrooms: In the same pan, add sliced mushrooms and cook until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Reduce the heat and add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth.
Combine everything: Return the chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce for a few minutes until heated through.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Make it dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese or omit Parmesan.
Add more veggies: Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers make great additions.
Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Lighter option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Gluten-free: This dish is naturally gluten-free; just serve it with a gluten-free side.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
Freezing: Freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay extra juicy in the creamy sauce.

What type of mushrooms should I use?

Button, cremini, or baby bella mushrooms all work great in this recipe.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then reheat and serve when needed.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

Can I add cheese other than Parmesan?

Yes, mozzarella or Gruyère can be added for extra creaminess.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed veggies.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs, making it a great keto-friendly option.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Milk can be used, but the sauce will be less rich. A mix of milk and a little butter can help.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Use low heat when adding cream and stir continuously to prevent curdling.

Can I cook this in the oven instead of on the stove?

Yes, after searing the chicken, transfer everything to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that’s packed with rich, savory flavors. With a simple one-pan method and a creamy sauce that coats every bite, this meal is perfect for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner at home!