Name: Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 2 tablespoons Olive oil; 8 ounces Sliced mushrooms; 3 Minced garlic cloves; 1 cup Chicken broth; 0.5 cup Heavy cream; 2 ounces Softened cream cheese; 1 teaspoon Garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 0.25 teaspoon Pepper; 1 tablespoon All-purpose flour

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The first time I made Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken, it was one of those days when everything seemed to go wrong. The rain was pouring outside, and I was stuck at home, yearning for something comforting to lift my spirits. I rifled through my pantry and fridge, desperately searching for inspiration. With some leftover chicken, mushrooms, and a few staple ingredients, I decided to whip up this dish, and it turned out to be a game changer. The combination of creamy sauce and the rich flavors of garlic and mushrooms enveloping tender chicken was precisely what I needed to turn my day around. Since then, Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken has become my go-to recipe for cozy nights in and even for impressing guests on a special occasion.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
500 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
35 g

Tools Used:
Whisk, Skillet, Frying Pan, Chef’s Knife

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken

Comforting Flavor

The flavor profile of Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken is truly comforting. The rich, creamy sauce with the aromatic garlic and earthy mushrooms creates a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. I love how the chicken absorbs all these wonderful flavors while still remaining juicy and tender. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day.

Quick and Easy

Despite its gourmet appearance, making Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken is surprisingly quick and easy. In under 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal that looks and tastes like it took hours of preparation. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Versatile Ingredients

This recipe features ingredients that are often found in your pantry and fridge. The use of chicken, mushrooms, and garlic means you can create this dish even when you think you’re out of options. Plus, you can easily tweak it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to customize it for your palate.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken is not only a delightful weeknight dinner; it also shines on special occasions. Whether it’s a cozy date night or a family gathering, this dish will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. The comforting aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting at the table.

Rich in Nutrients

With chicken as its star, this dish is packed with protein, making it a fulfilling meal. The addition of heavy cream and cream cheese adds richness, but you can easily balance it with a side of veggies or a fresh salad to make it a well-rounded meal.

Ingredients Overview for Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken

Choosing the right ingredients is key to the success of Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken. Each component plays a vital role in creating that luscious, creamy sauce. The chicken is the star, providing protein, while the mushrooms add an earthy depth, and the garlic infuses the dish with its fragrant aroma. The creaminess comes from a combination of heavy cream and cream cheese, ensuring each bite is rich and satisfying.

1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Tender and juicy, these cuts cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for frying the chicken, it adds a nice layer of flavor and helps achieve a golden-brown crust.
8 ounces sliced mushrooms: They bring an earthy flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
3 minced garlic cloves: Garlic is the heart of this dish, providing aromatic depth and deliciousness.
1 cup chicken broth: This adds moisture and flavor to the sauce, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
½ cup heavy cream: The key to the creamy sauce that envelops the chicken and mushrooms.
2 ounces softened cream cheese: This ingredient helps to thicken and enrich the sauce, making it extra luxurious.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A boost of garlic flavor that complements the fresh garlic.
½ teaspoon salt: To enhance the flavors of the dish.
¼ teaspoon pepper: Provides a little kick to balance the richness.
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings beautifully to the chicken.

Making Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken

Getting started with Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken is a breeze, and before you know it, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table. Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a dish that will quickly become a favorite for you and your family.

Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Look for the oil to shimmer slightly in the pan, indicating that it’s hot enough for cooking. Once heated, add in your 1 ½ pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. You should see a light crust forming on the outside, while the inside remains juicy. When done, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
In the same skillet, toss in the 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms and 3 minced garlic cloves. Stir them around and let them cook for a few minutes until the mushrooms are tender and slightly caramelized. You’ll notice the mushrooms releasing their moisture and shrinking down. Once they’re cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside as well.
Now, reduce the heat to medium and add 1 cup of chicken broth to the skillet. As it heats, make sure to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the skillet, as this adds a lot of flavor to your sauce. After the broth has come to a gentle simmer, add ½ cup of heavy cream, 2 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth. You should see a creamy mixture starting to form, which will smell fantastic.
Next, sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and continue whisking the sauce for about 1 to 2 minutes until it thickens. You want to achieve a consistency that coats the back of a spoon. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired texture.
Once your sauce is ready, add the cooked mushrooms and garlic back into the skillet along with the chicken. Gently stir everything together, ensuring the chicken is well coated in the creamy sauce. Allow it to heat through for a couple more minutes. You should see the sauce bubbling slightly, which indicates that it’s ready to serve.
Finally, serve your Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like. This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or a side of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Temperature: Make sure to cook the chicken over medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear without overcooking.
Thicken the Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer after adding the flour.
Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add spinach or broccoli to the dish for added nutrition and color.
Batch Cooking: This recipe can be doubled or halved easily, making it perfect for meal prep.

Helpful Notes about Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken

When making Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken, a few tips can help enhance your experience and the dish’s flavor. These insights can make the cooking process smoother and the meal even more enjoyable.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain creaminess.
Freezing: You can freeze the dish for up to two months. Freeze in individual portions for easy meals on busy days.
Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Fresh Herbs: Consider garnishing with fresh parsley or thyme for added flavor and freshness.
Serving Size: Adjust the serving size based on your usual needs and appetite; this recipe is quite filling!
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to customize the flavor profile of the sauce.

Serving This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken

When it comes to serving Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken, the options are endless. This dish not only shines in taste but also in versatility. Here are some delightful ways to present it:

With Pasta: Serve the chicken over a bed of fettuccine or penne for a rich Italian-inspired meal.
On Rice: A scoop of fluffy white rice or brown rice complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
With Bread: Crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce, enhancing the comfort factor.
Vegetable Sides: Pair with steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a fresh and colorful contrast.
For Special Occasions: This dish makes an excellent centerpiece for dinner parties or family gatherings; it looks as good as it tastes!
Leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers for lunch the next day; the flavors deepen and become even more delicious.

FAQ

Yes, you can definitely make Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken ahead of time. The dish actually benefits from sitting as the flavors meld together. If you plan to prepare it in advance, I recommend storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you reheat it, do so gently on the stove to ensure the sauce remains creamy and doesn’t separate. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the original consistency after reheating.

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. I love to serve Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken over pasta or rice to soak up all that incredible sauce. Alternatively, it’s fantastic with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a lighter meal. For a comforting touch, consider serving it with crusty bread or garlic bread, perfect for dipping into the rich sauce. Feel free to get creative with your side dishes based on what you have on hand!

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for sliced mushrooms, you can experiment with different varieties to suit your taste or what you have available. Shiitake, cremini, or even portobello mushrooms would add unique flavors and textures to Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken. Just keep in mind that some mushrooms may have stronger flavors, so adjust the amount according to your preference.

Yes, Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken is a great option for meal prepping! You can make a large batch and portion it out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. Store it in individual containers, and it will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days or can be frozen for longer storage. Just remember to reheat it gently, and you may want to add a little broth or cream to restore its creamy texture when serving.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken is the perfect balance of rich flavors and comforting textures, making it a must-try recipe. Its simplicity and ease of preparation allow you to create a gourmet meal at home without the fuss. I encourage you to try making it and experience the satisfaction of serving a dish that is both delicious and delightful to share. Your family and friends will surely be asking for more!