Creamy Garlic Chicken With Mushrooms

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken With Mushrooms
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Recipes

I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Chicken With Mushrooms because it’s a delightful blend of flavors that never fails to impress. The tender chicken, infused with rich garlic and earthy mushrooms, creates a comforting meal that feels elegant yet simple. I often prepare this dish for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, and it always brings smiles to the table. The bonus is that it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days when I crave something special without the fuss.

Created by

Aileen Prescott

Last updated on 2026-02-16T08:10:36.455Z

When I first tried creamy garlic chicken with mushrooms, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The combination of garlic and mushrooms enveloping the chicken in a luscious sauce is truly divine. What really makes this dish stand out is the addition of fresh herbs at the end; their brightness lifts the entire meal and adds depth.

Throughout my cooking journey, I’ve learned that patience pays off, especially when searing the chicken to achieve that golden-brown crust. This not only enhances the flavor but also creates a beautiful visual appeal that makes me proud every time I serve it.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich garlic flavor combined with savory mushrooms
Creamy sauce that pairs beautifully with any side dish
Quick preparation time makes it perfect for busy weeknights

The Role of Garlic and Mushrooms

Garlic is the star ingredient in this dish, bringing depth and a robust flavor profile that elevates the creamy sauce. When sautéed, garlic should become fragrant without browning, as burnt garlic can introduce bitterness. The mushrooms provide an earthy balance, soaking up the creamy sauce and adding a satisfying texture. Choose fresh, firm mushrooms for best results, as they hold their shape and flavor better during cooking, enhancing the overall dish.

I recommend using a combination of cremini and button mushrooms for a more complex flavor. Cremini mushrooms have a deeper taste compared to button mushrooms, and together they create a beautiful harmony. If you're looking for a lighter option, feel free to use shiitake mushrooms or even portobellos, which will impart a heartier flavor and texture to the dish.

Making the Creamy Sauce

The heavy cream in this recipe is essential for achieving that luxurious, velvety sauce that clings perfectly to the chicken. It allows you to create a rich texture without overwhelming the dish. Be sure to let the cream simmer gently; high heat can cause it to separate. A gentle simmer for about 3-5 minutes should thicken the sauce nicely. I also recommend stirring continuously as you add the Parmesan, ensuring it melts uniformly and enhances the creaminess.

If you're looking to lighten things up, you can substitute heavy cream with a mixture of half-and-half and a tablespoon of cornstarch to help thicken it. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream, but be aware that it will give a different flavor profile to the dish. Adjust seasonings accordingly, especially when substituting ingredients, to keep the balance of flavors in check.

Serving and Storing Tips

When serving Creamy Garlic Chicken, consider pairing it with a side of buttery mashed potatoes, rice, or fresh crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. For an additional layer of flavor, you can sprinkle some extra Parmesan or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the dish on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revitalize the sauce. Freezing is also an option; ensure it's fully cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, keeping an eye on the sauce's consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your creamy garlic chicken with mushrooms:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are prepped and ready to go before you start cooking to streamline the process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious creamy garlic chicken:

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Cook the Garlic and Mushrooms

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Sauté until the mushrooms are tender and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and add dried thyme, stirring well. Bring to a gentle simmer and allow it to thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over it. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve your creamy garlic chicken over pasta, rice, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce after sautéing the garlic and mushrooms.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you find yourself without heavy cream, you can use a combination of sour cream or Greek yogurt mixed with a splash of milk for a tangy sauce. This substitution alters the texture slightly but provides a delightful contrast to the garlic. For a vegan option, use a non-dairy cream alternative, like cashew cream, which will give you a similar richness without dairy.

In case you’re out of Parmesan cheese, grated pecorino or even nutritional yeast can work in a pinch. Nutritional yeast is an excellent choice for dairy-free diets and adds a nutty flavor, complementing the dish surprisingly well. Remember to keep an eye on how salt content varies with each substitute, adjusting to taste as needed.

Scaling the Recipe

One great aspect of this Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe is its versatility when it comes to scaling. If you're cooking for a larger gathering, easily double or even triple the ingredients while keeping the same cooking method. Just ensure your skillet is large enough to handle the increased amount of chicken and sauce. You may need to sear the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, which helps maintain that golden-brown color.

Alternatively, if you're cooking for fewer people, you can halve the recipe without sacrificing flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly, especially for the chicken, as smaller pieces may cook faster. This recipe is forgiving enough to adjust according to your needs while still delivering its signature creamy comfort.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work beautifully in this recipe, offering more flavor and tenderness.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter option, but it may change the sauce's consistency.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli can be great additions that enhance the dish's nutrition.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.