Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Skillet

This creamy garlic mushroom chicken skillet is a comforting and flavorful dish made with tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, velvety mushroom sauce. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that comes together quickly in one pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners at home.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe transforms everyday ingredients into something truly special. The seared chicken is juicy and flavorful, and the creamy mushroom sauce brings everything together with a luxurious touch. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy without being fussy. Plus, I only need one skillet, which means less cleanup for me.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Fresh mushrooms (like cremini or white button), sliced
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh thyme or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. I start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

2. In a large skillet, I heat the olive oil over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Then I remove the chicken and set it aside.

3. In the same skillet, I sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the mushrooms and cook until tender and browned, about 6-8 minutes.

4. I pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.

5. Then I reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, letting it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.

6. I return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the top, and let everything simmer together for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh herbs.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, making the total time around 35 minutes.

Variations

• I sometimes use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness.

• Adding a splash of white wine before the cream gives the sauce a deeper flavor.

• For a low-carb option, I serve it over cauliflower rice or sautéed spinach.

• If I want more veggies, I throw in some baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes just before adding the cream.

• I can also make it dairy-free by using coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of cream and cheese.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. I avoid microwaving for too long so the sauce doesn’t separate.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

I check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) with a meat thermometer, or I cut into the thickest part to make sure there’s no pink.

Can I use canned mushrooms instead of fresh?

Fresh mushrooms give the best texture and flavor, but I can use canned in a pinch—just be sure to drain them well first.

Is it okay to freeze this dish?

I don’t recommend freezing it because the cream sauce can separate and change texture when thawed.

What sides go well with this creamy chicken?

I love serving it with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or a slice of crusty bread to soak up all the sauce.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, I often cook the chicken and sauce ahead and just reheat gently before serving. It actually tastes even better the next day.

Conclusion

This creamy garlic mushroom chicken skillet has become one of my go-to meals when I want something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With its simple ingredients, rich flavors, and easy cleanup, it’s a winner any night of the week.

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Skillet

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• Author: Mary
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner, Main Course
• Method: Skillet, Pan-Seared, One-Pot
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Skillet is a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are seared and simmered in a rich, velvety garlic mushroom cream sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It’s a cozy, comforting dinner that comes together in just 35 minutes with everyday ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving something warm and satisfying, this skillet meal is sure to please.

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Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 oz fresh mushrooms (cremini or white button), sliced
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add mushrooms and cook for 6–8 minutes until browned and tender.
5. Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits.
6. Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for a few minutes until sauce thickens.
7. Return chicken to the skillet. Spoon sauce over chicken and simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired. Serve warm.

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Notes

• Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for more flavor.
• Add white wine before the cream for a richer taste.
• Serve with mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or sautéed greens.
• Make it dairy-free with coconut cream and nutritional yeast.