Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Skillet: A One-Pan Comfort Food Classic

Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of this Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Skillet—a one-pan dish that combines tender, golden-seared chicken breasts with a luscious cream sauce infused with garlic, mushrooms, and herbs. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy date night, this recipe comes together quickly with simple ingredients, making it both delicious and practical.

Pair it with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy mushroom sauce, and you’ve got a complete meal that feels elegant yet comforting. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Flavorful Sauce: The combination of garlic, mushrooms, and cream creates a velvety sauce with layers of flavor.
2. One-Pan Simplicity: Everything cooks in one skillet, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor.
3. Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleasing recipe that’s easy to customize and pairs well with any side.
4. Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a restaurant-quality meal at home.
5. Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, spices, or proteins for a dish that’s uniquely yours.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish so irresistible:

For the Chicken:

• 3 chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
• Salt and pepper: Season the chicken generously to enhance its natural flavor.
• 2 tbsp olive oil + 1 tbsp butter: Olive oil helps sear the chicken, while butter adds richness and flavor.

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced: Cremini or button mushrooms work beautifully, but feel free to use shiitake or portobello for deeper flavor.
• 1 small onion, diced (optional): Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic, savory flavor.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Deglazes the skillet and adds a savory base to the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a rich, silky texture that coats the chicken and mushrooms.
• 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning: Adds an herbaceous note that complements the mushrooms and garlic.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and enhances the overall flavors.

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor to brighten the dish.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the hot skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown. (They don’t need to be fully cooked yet.)
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms and Aromatics

1. In the same skillet, add the diced onion (if using) and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and tender.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet (this adds tons of flavor!).
2. Let the broth simmer for 2 minutes, reducing slightly.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and dried thyme (or Italian seasoning). Mix well and season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Simmer the Chicken

1. Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy mushroom sauce.
2. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to keep it moist.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until fully cooked. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley for garnish.
2. Serve the chicken hot, with the creamy mushroom sauce spooned over the top. Pair it with rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a complete and satisfying meal.

Chef Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Sear the chicken in batches if needed to ensure a golden crust. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam rather than brown.
2. Deglaze the Pan: Scrape up all the browned bits from the skillet when adding the chicken broth. This step is key to a flavorful sauce.
3. Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, check that the chicken’s internal temperature reaches exactly 165°F.
4. Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, green beans, or asparagus during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrients.
5. Customize the Mushrooms: Use a mix of mushroom varieties (e.g., shiitake, portobello, or oyster) for a more complex flavor profile.

Customizations and Variations

This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Add Vegetables:

• Stir in a handful of fresh spinach, kale, or arugula toward the end of cooking for extra greens.
• Add steamed broccoli or roasted cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and texture.

Cheese Upgrade:

• Stir in a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Gruyère to the sauce for an extra cheesy, luxurious flavor.

Spice it Up:

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Swap Italian seasoning for Cajun seasoning for a spicy, smoky twist.

Swap the Protein:

• Use boneless pork chops, turkey cutlets, or even salmon fillets instead of chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to complete your meal. Here are some ideas:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
• Pasta: Serve over fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti for a classic pairing.
• Rice or Quinoa: A great option to keep the meal light and gluten-free.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a healthy, colorful side.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up every drop of the creamy sauce.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Here’s an estimate for one serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 430
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fat: 29g
• Fiber: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the chicken and sauce separately, then reheat gently in the skillet before serving. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce as needed.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

3. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and sauce together for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop.

4. Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with canned coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

5. Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes! Bone-in chicken thighs or breasts work well but may require a longer cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they’re fully cooked.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Skillet is the perfect combination of simplicity, elegance, and comfort. With tender chicken, a velvety mushroom sauce, and the rich aroma of garlic and herbs, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy every creamy, savory bite! 🍄🍗

 

Print