Emily Johnson
Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken breasts, savory mushrooms, and a rich, garlic-infused Parmesan cream sauce to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this recipe balances bold flavors with a velvety texture, making it both comforting and elegant. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s an accessible yet impressive dish that’s sure to delight anyone who loves hearty, flavorful cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe promises a satisfying and delicious experience.
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What You'll Learn
- Prep Ingredients: Gather chicken, mushrooms, garlic, Parmesan, cream, butter, thyme, salt, pepper, and olive oil
- Sear Chicken: Cook chicken breasts until golden on both sides; set aside
- Sauté Mushrooms: Brown mushrooms and garlic in butter until tender and fragrant
- Make Sauce: Add cream, Parmesan, and thyme; simmer until sauce thickens slightly
- Combine & Serve: Return chicken to pan, coat in sauce, and serve hot
Prep Ingredients: Gather chicken, mushrooms, garlic, Parmesan, cream, butter, thyme, salt, pepper, and olive oil
To begin crafting your creamy Parmesan garlic mushroom chicken, the first step is to prep your ingredients meticulously. Start by gathering all the necessary components: boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fresh mushrooms (button or cremini work well), and a generous amount of garlic cloves. Ensure the garlic is peeled and minced finely, as it will infuse the dish with its aromatic flavor. Grated Parmesan cheese is essential for that rich, savory taste, so have a good quantity ready. Heavy cream will form the base of your creamy sauce, so measure it out in advance. Additionally, you’ll need unsalted butter for sautéing, fresh thyme for a herbal note, and olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan. Don’t forget to have salt and pepper on hand for seasoning.
Next, organize your ingredients in a way that streamlines the cooking process. Lay out the chicken breasts on a clean surface and pat them dry with paper towels to ensure even browning. Slice the mushrooms uniformly to allow them to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce. Place the minced garlic in a small bowl, ready to be added at the right moment. Measure the cream and grated Parmesan into separate bowls to avoid any last-minute scrambling. Have the butter, olive oil, and fresh thyme leaves (or dried thyme if fresh isn’t available) within easy reach of your stovetop. This preparation ensures a smooth and efficient cooking experience.
Seasoning and marinating the chicken is a crucial step that shouldn’t be overlooked. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. If time allows, let the chicken sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature to absorb the seasoning. This simple step enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Meanwhile, prepare your Parmesan and cream mixture by combining them in a bowl, ensuring the cheese is evenly distributed. This mixture will be added later to create the creamy sauce, so having it ready saves time during cooking.
Prepping the aromatics is equally important for building depth of flavor. Ensure your garlic is minced to a fine consistency, as this allows it to cook quickly without burning. If using fresh thyme, strip the leaves from the stems and chop them lightly. If using dried thyme, measure it out and keep it nearby. These aromatics will be added to the pan after the chicken has browned, creating a fragrant base for your sauce. Having them prepped in advance ensures they’re ready to go when the recipe calls for them.
Finally, measure and arrange your liquids and fats for easy access. Pour the olive oil and measure the butter so they’re ready to be added to the pan. Having these fats prepped ensures you can maintain the right temperature and avoid overcooking or burning. Similarly, keep the cream and Parmesan mixture close by, as it will be added toward the end to create the creamy sauce. By meticulously prepping and organizing all your ingredients, you set the stage for a seamless cooking process that results in a delicious, restaurant-quality creamy Parmesan garlic mushroom chicken.
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Sear Chicken: Cook chicken breasts until golden on both sides; set aside
To begin the process of making creamy Parmesan garlic mushroom chicken, the first crucial step is to sear the chicken breasts. Start by preparing your chicken breasts—ensure they are evenly sized for consistent cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels; this is essential as moisture on the surface can prevent proper browning. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper, allowing the seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter, ensuring it coats the pan evenly. Once the oil is shimmering or the butter has melted and begun to foam, carefully place the chicken breasts into the skillet.
As the chicken cooks, resist the urge to move it immediately. Allow it to sear undisturbed for 4-5 minutes on the first side, or until a golden-brown crust forms. This step is key to developing flavor and texture. After achieving the desired color, use tongs to flip the chicken breasts to the other side. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the second side is equally golden. The exact timing may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken, so monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
Once both sides are seared to perfection, remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and place them on a plate or cutting board. Tent them loosely with foil to keep them warm while you proceed with the next steps of the recipe. This resting period also allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken remains moist and tender. Be mindful not to overcrowd the skillet during searing, as this can cause steaming instead of browning; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
The seared chicken breasts will serve as the foundation for your creamy Parmesan garlic mushroom sauce. By setting them aside, you create space in the skillet to sauté the mushrooms and garlic, building layers of flavor that will complement the chicken. This initial searing step not only adds visual appeal but also locks in the juices, ensuring the chicken stays succulent as it finishes cooking in the sauce later. Properly executed, this step sets the stage for a rich, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a luscious, savory sauce.
Finally, remember that the goal of searing is not to cook the chicken through entirely but to create a flavorful crust. The chicken will finish cooking in the sauce, so it’s important not to overcook it at this stage. By following these detailed instructions, you’ll achieve perfectly seared chicken breasts that are ready to be incorporated into the creamy Parmesan garlic mushroom sauce, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
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Sauté Mushrooms: Brown mushrooms and garlic in butter until tender and fragrant
To begin the process of sautéing mushrooms for your creamy Parmesan garlic mushroom chicken, start by preparing your ingredients. You’ll need fresh mushrooms (button, cremini, or a mix), minced garlic, and unsalted butter. Ensure the mushrooms are cleaned and sliced evenly to promote even cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, as this will help them brown properly instead of steaming in the pan. Have your garlic minced and ready, as it will cook quickly once added to the pan.
Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Allow it to melt completely and coat the bottom of the pan. The butter should begin to foam slightly but not burn—this is your cue that the pan is ready. Add the sliced mushrooms in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding, which can prevent proper browning. If necessary, sauté the mushrooms in batches to ensure each piece cooks evenly. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust on one side before stirring.
Once the mushrooms have browned on the first side, stir them gently and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until they are tender and deeply browned. At this point, add the minced garlic to the pan. Cook the garlic for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The garlic should become fragrant and lightly golden, infusing the mushrooms with its aroma. Be careful not to overcook the garlic, as it can turn bitter if left too long in the heat.
As the mushrooms and garlic sauté, you’ll notice the release of their natural juices, creating a rich, savory base for your dish. Continue cooking until the liquid has mostly evaporated, leaving behind tender, browned mushrooms coated in a buttery garlic glaze. This step is crucial for building flavor in your creamy Parmesan garlic mushroom chicken, as the sautéed mushrooms will add depth and umami to the final sauce.
Finally, remove the sautéed mushrooms and garlic from the skillet and set them aside while you prepare the rest of the dish. The skillet will be used again to cook the chicken and create the creamy sauce, so leave any residual butter or browned bits in the pan—these will enhance the overall flavor. Properly sautéing the mushrooms until they are tender and fragrant ensures they become a standout component of your creamy Parmesan garlic mushroom chicken, adding texture and richness to every bite.
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Make Sauce: Add cream, Parmesan, and thyme; simmer until sauce thickens slightly
To begin crafting the creamy Parmesan garlic mushroom chicken sauce, gather your ingredients: heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprig of fresh thyme. Ensure the cream is at room temperature to prevent curdling when added to the hot pan. Once your chicken and mushrooms are cooked and set aside, it’s time to focus on the sauce. Start by reducing the heat to medium-low to maintain control over the thickening process. Pour the heavy cream into the same skillet where the chicken and mushrooms were cooked, allowing it to absorb the flavorful remnants left in the pan. This step is crucial for building a rich, savory base for your sauce.
Next, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the cream, stirring continuously to ensure it melts smoothly and evenly. Freshly grated Parmesan is preferred over pre-shredded varieties, as it incorporates more seamlessly and adds a superior depth of flavor. As you stir, the sauce will begin to take on a luscious, creamy texture. At this point, introduce the fresh thyme, either as whole sprigs or finely chopped leaves, depending on your preference. Thyme adds a subtle earthy aroma that complements the garlic and Parmesan beautifully. Allow the thyme to infuse the sauce as it simmers.
Simmering is a key step in achieving the desired consistency for your sauce. Keep the heat at a gentle simmer, avoiding a rapid boil, which could cause the cream to separate or the Parmesan to clump. Stir the sauce occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and to ensure even thickening. The sauce is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and leaves a slight trail when you run your finger through it. This process typically takes about 5-7 minutes, depending on the heat and the amount of liquid in the pan.
As the sauce thickens, pay close attention to its texture and flavor. If it becomes too thick, you can adjust by adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to achieve the desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, continue simmering for a few more minutes, allowing the excess liquid to evaporate. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed, though the Parmesan should provide ample saltiness. Once the sauce reaches the perfect creamy consistency, it’s time to return the chicken and mushrooms to the skillet, coating them generously in the Parmesan thyme sauce.
Finally, let the chicken and mushrooms heat through in the sauce for a couple of minutes, ensuring every element of the dish is infused with the creamy, garlicky, and cheesy flavors. This final step ties everything together, creating a harmonious and indulgent dish. The sauce should cling to the chicken and mushrooms, enhancing their textures and flavors. With the sauce expertly prepared, your creamy Parmesan garlic mushroom chicken is ready to be served, offering a delightful blend of richness and comfort in every bite.
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Combine & Serve: Return chicken to pan, coat in sauce, and serve hot
Once your creamy Parmesan garlic sauce has thickened to the desired consistency, it’s time to reintroduce the chicken to the pan. Carefully place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce and mushrooms. Allow the chicken to heat through for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring it absorbs the flavors of the sauce. Use a spoon or spatula to gently coat each piece of chicken in the creamy sauce, making sure every bite will be rich and flavorful. This step is crucial for marrying the savory chicken with the indulgent Parmesan garlic sauce.
As you return the chicken to the pan, tilt the skillet slightly to pool the sauce around the chicken, then spoon it generously over the top. This ensures the chicken is fully coated and glistening with the creamy mixture. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it, allowing it to cling to the chicken without becoming too heavy. The goal is to create a harmonious balance between the tender chicken, the umami-packed mushrooms, and the velvety sauce.
Once the chicken is thoroughly coated and heated, it’s ready to be served. Use a spatula to transfer the chicken breasts to a serving platter or individual plates, leaving the mushrooms and extra sauce in the pan. Spoon the remaining sauce and mushrooms over the chicken, ensuring every serving is generous and visually appealing. The dish should look inviting, with the creamy sauce cascading over the golden-brown chicken and earthy mushrooms.
For an extra touch of elegance, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Serve the creamy Parmesan garlic mushroom chicken immediately while it’s hot, as the sauce tends to thicken as it cools. Pair it with sides like mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed vegetables to soak up the extra sauce and complete the meal.
Finally, encourage your guests to savor the dish by cutting into the chicken to reveal its tender interior, perfectly complemented by the rich, garlicky sauce. The combination of flavors and textures—crispy edges, creamy sauce, and juicy chicken—makes this dish a standout. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this final step of combining and serving ensures the dish is as delicious as it is impressive.
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Frequently asked questions
You'll need chicken breasts, mushrooms, garlic, butter, olive oil, heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Cook the chicken on medium heat, avoiding overcooking, and let it rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain moisture.
Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago, but Parmesan adds the best flavor for this dish.
Mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce, or simmer the sauce longer to reduce and thicken naturally.
Yes, it’s keto-friendly as it’s low in carbs, thanks to the heavy cream, cheese, and lack of added sugars or high-carb ingredients.
