Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken

If you’re looking for a comforting dinner that feels special yet is super easy to prepare, this Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken is just the ticket! Imagine tender chicken breast swimming in a rich and luscious garlic mushroom sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have all evening to spend in the kitchen. This recipe has become a family favorite at my house, and I can’t wait for you to try it too!

Whether you’re hosting friends for dinner or simply treating yourself after a long day, this dish shines on any table. The creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with rice or pasta, making it versatile enough for different occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Simple: With just a few steps, this dish comes together quickly, allowing you to enjoy more time at the table.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the creamy flavor and tender chicken—it’s sure to please everyone!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the sauce in advance and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.
• Elevated Comfort Food: Rich flavors and simple ingredients make this dish feel indulgent without being complicated.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that you’ll need for this Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken. Most of these items are staples in your pantry, making it easy to whip up this delightful meal whenever the craving strikes!

• 2x 9oz/250g Chicken Breasts, (brought close to room temp)
• 1/4 cup / 40g Flour (see notes)
• 1 tsp EACH: Salt, Garlic Powder
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tbsp EACH: Olive Oil, Butter (preferably unsalted)
• 9oz / 250g Baby Button Mushrooms, (sliced fairly thin)
• 3/4 cup / 180ml Heavy/Double Cream, (at room temp)
• 3/4 cup / 180ml Chicken Stock
• 1oz / 1/3cup / 30g freshly grated Parmesan
• 2 large cloves of Garlic, (finely diced)
• 1 tbsp finely diced Fresh Parsley (plus more to garnish if desired)
• 1 tbsp finely diced Fresh Chives
• 1 tbsp Butter (preferably unsalted; can substitute oil, this is for frying the mushrooms)
• 1/2 – 1 tsp Lemon Juice (see notes)
• Salt & Pepper, (to taste)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or even tofu instead of chicken for a unique twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the mushrooms: Experiment with different types of mushrooms like cremini or shiitake for varied flavors.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!

How to Make Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by horizontally slicing each chicken breast right through the center to create four evenly sized pieces. This helps them cook more evenly and ensures they soak up that delightful sauce later on.

Step 2: Dredge in Flour

In a large shallow dish, combine flour with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Dredge each chicken piece through the flour mixture until coated. This not only adds flavor but also helps create that beautiful golden crust when cooked.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add your chicken pieces and fry both sides until golden brown and nearly cooked through. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan so each piece gets that perfect sear!

Step 4: Sauté Mushrooms

Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, melt another tablespoon of butter before adding sliced mushrooms. Fry them until they form a golden crust before reducing heat. Adding garlic now will infuse wonderful flavor into your sauce!

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in chicken stock and cream while stirring in chives and parsley. Simmer gently until it begins to thicken—this is where all those flavors come together beautifully!

Step 6: Finish It Up

Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese along with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper! Finally, return your chicken back into this heavenly sauce to coat it well before serving.

Now it’s time to plate up your Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken! Enjoy every bite—it’s truly comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken

Cooking can sometimes feel overwhelming, but with a few pro tips, you’ll create a delightful dish that’s sure to impress!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Having everything prepped and ready to go makes the cooking process smoother and quicker. This way, you can focus on enjoying the cooking experience without scrambling for ingredients.

• Let Chicken Rest: Allowing your chicken to come close to room temperature before cooking helps it cook more evenly. This prevents the outside from getting too brown while the inside remains undercooked.

• Don’t Rush the Mushrooms: Give your mushrooms enough time to develop that golden crust. This extra step enhances their flavor and adds depth to your sauce, making every bite a delight.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! Adding salt, pepper, or lemon juice in small increments allows you to control the flavor profile precisely and avoid over-seasoning.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and chives bring brightness to the dish. They not only enhance the presentation but also provide a fresh burst of flavor that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken

Presenting your Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken is all about making it look as delicious as it tastes! Here are some ideas that will elevate your meal experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley adds a vibrant green color and freshness that brightens up the plate.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side gives your guests the option to add a zesty touch just before digging in.
• Chive Sprigs: A few whole sprigs of fresh chives not only enhance visual appeal but also offer an aromatic hint when served.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic pair beautifully with this dish, soaking up that rich sauce for a comforting bite.

• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a lovely crunch and bright green color, balancing out the creaminess of the chicken effortlessly.

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad loaded with veggies brings a nutritious crunch and pairs perfectly with the creamy flavors of the chicken.

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds both color and texture, enhancing your dining experience while keeping things wholesome.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable meal! Enjoy every bite of this Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken—your taste buds will thank you!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for quick and delicious meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Make sure the chicken is fully cooled.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• You can add a splash of chicken stock or cream if the sauce is too thick.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

Can I make Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version.

How do I know when my Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). The chicken will also be golden brown on the outside and no longer pink inside.

Can I use different types of mushrooms in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other mushroom varieties like cremini, shiitake, or portobello for added flavor.

What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken as much as I do! It’s not only comforting and delicious but also simple enough for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!