Just when you thought chicken couldn’t get any more delicious, along comes this creamy mushroom garlic chicken to prove you wrong. Perfect for those nights when you want something comforting yet sophisticated without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of mushrooms and garlic creates a deep, umami-rich flavor that elevates the chicken beyond the ordinary.
- Heavy cream adds a luxurious texture that makes the dish feel indulgent without being overly complicated.
- It’s a one-pan meal, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your dinner.
- Versatile enough to pair with almost any side, from pasta to roasted vegetables.
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are prepped. Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces, slice the mushrooms, and mince the garlic. Having everything ready to go will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper as they cook. You’re looking for a golden brown color on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure each piece gets nicely browned.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic
Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the mushrooms and garlic, sautéing until the mushrooms are soft and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your dish.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the chicken to the skillet with the mushrooms and garlic. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the dried thyme. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce has reached your desired consistency, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve your creamy mushroom garlic chicken over pasta, rice, or with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer flavor, consider deglazing the pan with a splash of white wine after sautéing the mushrooms and garlic. This not only adds depth to the dish but also helps to lift any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, incorporating them into the sauce. If you’re looking to lighten the dish, half-and-half can be used in place of heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly less thick. Lastly, for those who love a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added with the thyme can give the dish a pleasant warmth.
Recipe Variations
- Swap out the chicken for shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist.
- Add spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for a pop of color and nutrients.
- Use a mix of wild mushrooms for a more complex flavor profile.
- Stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard with the cream for a tangy kick.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This creamy mushroom garlic chicken reheats beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish is incredibly versatile. It pairs well with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.
Can I freeze this dish?
While you can freeze it, the cream-based sauce may separate upon thawing, affecting the texture. If you do choose to freeze it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently, stirring well to recombine the sauce.
Summary
This creamy mushroom garlic chicken is a quick, flavorful, and comforting dish perfect for any weeknight. With its rich sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
