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 sliced mushrooms; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Meals

I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Chicken With Mushrooms for a comforting dinner. The rich, velvety sauce, infused with garlic and herbs, clings beautifully to juicy chicken and tender mushrooms. It’s easy to whip up in about 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal. I enjoy serving it over pasta or rice to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. Every time I make it, my family begs for seconds, and I can't resist the satisfaction that comes from serving them a homemade dish so packed with flavor.

Created by

Belinda Fraser

Last updated on 2026-02-16T00:49:35.919Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was on a quest for a dish that was both simple and indulgent. The combination of garlic, cream, and mushrooms creates an irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen. The key is to simmer the chicken gently so it remains tender while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

One important tip I learned is to use fresh garlic instead of powder; it not only intensifies the flavor but also provides that lovely slight caramelization when sautéed. Pairing this dish with a crisp salad makes it a well-rounded meal that I can’t stop coming back to.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Lush, creamy sauce that elevates humble chicken to gourmet status
Fresh garlic and herbs combine for a deliciously aromatic experience
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

The Perfect Chicken

Achieving tender, juicy chicken is key to this dish. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet while cooking. If you're using large chicken breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness of about 1 inch for uniform cooking. This helps them cook evenly and stay moist, reducing the risk of drying out. Cook over medium heat for that golden brown crust, about 6-7 minutes per side, and look for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.

If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute chicken breasts with thighs, which are slightly fattier and remain moist even if cooked a bit longer. You might want to adjust the cooking time to 8-9 minutes per side. Alternatively, for a leaner choice, consider using turkey cutlets. Just note that they will have a slightly different flavor profile.

Sautéing for Flavor

The mushrooms and garlic are crucial for building depth in the creamy sauce. When sautéing the mushrooms, avoid higher heat; you want to cook them slowly until they're soft and caramelized, about 4 minutes. This releases natural sugars and enhances their umami flavor. If the mushrooms get too brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly and add a splash of chicken broth to create moisture, ensuring they cook without burning.

If you're looking to mix things up, you can experiment with different mushrooms. Shiitake or cremini mushrooms offer a slightly earthy taste that complements the garlic beautifully. If you’re aiming for a lighter dish, consider using zucchini noodles instead of pasta, which will soak up the creamy sauce wonderfully without the added carbs.

Sauce Technique

The heavy cream is essential for creating that rich, velvety sauce, but you can substitute it with half-and-half if you want a lighter version. Just keep in mind it won’t be as thick. When adding cream to the skillet, scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom for maximum flavor. Simmering for 2-3 minutes not only thickens the sauce but melds the flavors, which is vital for the overall taste. If your sauce is too thin, try adding a touch of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it out, while avoiding overcooking, which can make the sauce too thick and heavy.

For anyone looking for a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream can work wonderfully, giving the sauce a subtly sweet flavor. Simply replace the heavy cream with an equal amount of coconut cream, and be sure to season adequately since it may require additional salt to balance the sweetness.

Ingredients

Ingredients List

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

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until soft, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it in the creamy sauce. Cook together for another 2 minutes to warm through. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider including a splash of white wine to the sauce. It enhances the depth of flavor and adds a lovely acidity that balances the creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Garlic Chicken With Mushrooms pairs beautifully with various sides. My favorite is a fresh pasta like fettuccine or linguine, which soaks up the creamy sauce. You can also serve it over a bed of rice for a comforting meal. For a lighter side, steamed veggies like broccoli or asparagus complement the dish without overwhelming the palate.

If you're hosting a dinner, consider serving this dish alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. The acidity cuts through the richness of the sauce, providing a nice balance, and will have your guests raving about the combination.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the chicken tender, reheat it gently on the stove over low heat. You might want to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, preventing it from drying out while warming. Alternatively, a quick 1-2 minute blast in the microwave can also do the trick, but be cautious not to overheat.

For longer storage, consider freezing the creamy chicken dish. Freeze in a sealed, airtight container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. You may notice the sauce separating slightly; just stir well to bring everything back together.

Variations to Try

Feel free to play around with the ingredients. Adding spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichokes can elevate the dish further and add vibrant colors. These ingredients can be sautéed along with the mushrooms for added flavor and texture. If you want an extra kick, consider adding a touch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.

For a lemony twist, squeeze half a lemon while simmering the cream, which adds brightness and contrasts the richness. This variation pairs nicely with a light white wine, creating a delightful dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

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

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream, but the texture will be lighter.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

Consider using less cream and more broth or opting for low-fat cream options. Adding additional vegetables can also boost the nutritional value.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently and add the chicken before serving.