Pin If you are craving something truly comforting with minimal cleanup, this creamy garlic mushroom chicken skillet is just the answer. Juicy chicken breasts get simmered in a lush, garlicky sauce packed with mushrooms and Parmesan, all coming together in one pan for an easy weeknight dinner that feels restaurant-worthy.
The very first time I made this, even the pickiest eater at my table went back for seconds. That creamy sauce is pure magic over mashed potatoes or a bowl of steamed rice.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: boneless and skinless for quick cooking and tender texture. Look for plump pieces with a pinkish hue and no excess moisture
- Salt and black pepper: essential for seasoning the chicken throughout
- Olive oil: gives a beautiful sear and infuses subtle fruity flavor. Use extra virgin for the best taste
- Cremini or white mushrooms: add umami depth and a classic earthiness. Choose mushrooms that are firm and dry to the touch
- Garlic: minced for bold, aromatic flavor. Fresh cloves bring the most punch
- Yellow onion: brings sweet undertones to the sauce. Pick one that feels hefty for its size
- Chicken broth: forms the base of the sauce and keeps everything juicy. If gluten-free is needed, double check the label
- Heavy cream: makes the sauce luscious and silky. Look for cream with at least thirty six percent milk fat for richness
- Parmesan cheese: freshly grated for meltability and nutty sharpness. A block of real Parmigiano Reggiano is worth the splurge
- Fresh thyme or dried thyme: for an herby pop. Fresh sprigs will give the brightest flavor
- Unsalted butter: helps mushrooms brown and gives the sauce a beautiful sheen. Choose high quality
- Fresh parsley: for garnish adds color and a hint of freshness at the end. Flat leaf gives the best flavor and texture
Instructions
- Season the Chicken:
- Pat chicken breasts dry then sprinkle both sides evenly with salt and pepper to ensure every bite is flavorful
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high. Once shimmering add chicken breasts and cook for four to five minutes without moving to build a good crust. Flip and cook the other side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and keep warm on a plate
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Reduce heat to medium then add butter to the same skillet. Stir in the chopped onion and cook for about two minutes until starting to soften. Add mushrooms and leave undisturbed for about two minutes so they brown, then stir and cook for another three to four minutes until deeply golden and tender
- Add Garlic and Thyme:
- Sprinkle in your minced garlic and thyme. Stir constantly for about a minute taking care not to burn the garlic so you get maximum aroma and flavor
- Deglaze with Broth:
- Pour in chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of your pan. Let this mixture come to a gentle simmer to blend all the savory flavors together
- Create the Creamy Sauce:
- Reduce heat to medium low. Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan. Stir and let the cheese melt slowly which will help thicken the sauce after two to three minutes
- Return Chicken and Simmer:
- Nestle the chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning mushrooms and sauce over the top. Gently simmer uncovered for three to four minutes until everything is piping hot and the chicken is infused with the sauce
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over everything and bring the pan straight to the table for serving
Pin Of all the ingredients my favorite is the freshly grated Parmesan. I love how it turns the sauce into something so velvety and satisfying. My kids always sneak in for a taste as soon as they catch the cheesy aroma wafting from the kitchen.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. If freezing, slice the chicken before storing for easier reheating and portion control.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap in boneless chicken thighs for juicier meat. If mushrooms are not your favorite, try zucchini or even chopped asparagus for a seasonal twist. For a lighter sauce, use half and half, or try coconut cream for a non-dairy alternative though the flavor will change.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this skillet dish over buttery mashed potatoes, al dente pasta, or steamed jasmine rice. It is also lovely paired with a side of roasted green beans or a crisp green salad to balance the creaminess.
Cultural and Historical Context
This recipe has roots in classic French cuisine where creamy sauces and mushrooms elegantly elevate simple chicken. However, the one pan approach and approachable ingredients make it right at home in modern American kitchens. Think of it as a weeknight answer to chicken Marsala or Chicken à la King.
Seasonal Adaptations
Try swapping in wild mushrooms in the fall for an earthier flavor Asparagus works beautifully for a springtime variation Summer calls for a handful of cherry tomatoes added with the mushrooms for brightness
Success Stories
This dish has become a celebratory favorite for my family birthdays and Sunday dinners alike. Friends have raved about how easy yet impressive it is for date night at home. Even reheated leftovers make coworkers envious at lunchtime.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Prepare the recipe through the point of simmering the chicken in the sauce. Let everything cool completely then transfer into freezer safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stovetop. Finish with a fresh sprinkle of parsley before serving to brighten the flavors.
Pin This ultra-creamy garlic mushroom chicken skillet will bring comfort and joy to your table any night of the week. Enjoy every luscious bite!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness. Adjust cooking time as needed.
- → How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free chicken broth and check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- → Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Try half-and-half for a lighter sauce or use plant-based cream alternatives to suit dietary needs.
- → Which side dishes pair well?
Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently to preserve the sauce texture.
- → Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, try adding spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and flavor variety.