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If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you have to try this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe. It’s a luscious combination of tender chicken breasts, earthy mushrooms, and a velvety parmesan-infused garlic sauce that practically melts in your mouth. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful, comforting meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing friends over the weekend. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this dish is approachable, satisfying, and guaranteed to become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe lies in how each ingredient plays a crucial role, creating a harmonious balance of flavors, textures, and colors. From the tender chicken breasts to the fresh spinach added at the end, every element is essential to bring out the best in this dish.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced: Choosing thin slices helps the chicken cook quickly and evenly, ensuring juicy, tender bites.
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil: A heart-healthy oil perfect for browning the chicken to a beautiful golden color.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance every component of the dish.
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms: These add a lovely earthiness and texture contrast to the creamy sauce.
- 1/4 cup butter: Creates the rich base for the garlic sauce with a silky mouthfeel.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic brings that signature aromatic punch to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon flour: Works as a gentle thickener, giving the sauce its perfect consistency.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and balances the creaminess without overpowering.
- 1 cup heavy cream or half and half: The heart of this dish, delivering its signature creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty richness that elevates the whole meal.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Layers additional garlic flavor for a more robust profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Adds a subtle kick and warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Ensures the flavors truly shine without any dullness.
- 1 cup chopped spinach: A pop of vibrant green that adds freshness and a slightly earthy flavor.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your thinly sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them into the hot oil. Cook each side for about 3 to 5 minutes, until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust and are cooked through with no pink remaining inside. This step locks in juices and builds a beautiful flavor base. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms
Without cleaning the skillet, toss in the sliced mushrooms. Let them cook for just a few minutes until they turn tender and release their natural juices, which helps to deepen the earthy taste of your dish. Once softened, remove them and set aside with the chicken. This simple step ensures your mushrooms don’t overcook and keeps them perfectly textured in the final dish.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet, letting it melt fully. Stir in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant and tender, releasing that iconic aroma that will fill your kitchen. Next, whisk in the flour. This blending creates a roux that thickens the sauce beautifully without any lumps. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to keep the sauce smooth and silky.
Step 4: Finish the Creamy Sauce
Now pour in the heavy cream or half and half, followed by the grated parmesan cheese. Sprinkle in garlic powder, pepper, and salt, then gently fold in the chopped spinach. Let everything simmer on low heat until the sauce thickens slightly and the spinach wilts, creating a luscious, velvety texture that perfectly coats the chicken and mushrooms.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked chicken and mushrooms back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Give everything a gentle stir to fully combine, allowing the chicken to soak up all those rich, garlicky flavors. Your Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a light dusting of extra grated parmesan on top takes this dish to the next level, adding a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. A few twists of cracked black pepper can brighten the creamy sauce and make every bite pop with freshness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it over a bed of al dente pasta to catch every bit of the creamy sauce, or alongside fluffy mashed potatoes for a truly comforting meal. Steamed vegetables or a simple crisp green salad offer a fresh counterbalance and keep the meal feeling well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, consider plating the chicken atop a swirl of creamy polenta or wild rice. You can use shallow bowls to hold the luscious sauce beautifully or try garnish with roasted pine nuts or a drizzle of truffle oil for a sophisticated touch that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making leftovers just as delicious. Consume within 3 to 4 days for the best quality.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, making it a perfect option for meal prep. Cool completely before transferring the chicken and sauce into a freezer-safe container. It will keep its flavor and texture for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, use a low heat on the stove or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to ensure the sauce remains creamy and does not separate. If it thickens too much, a splash of milk or chicken broth will bring it back to the perfect consistency in no time.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more juiciness and flavor due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.
What type of mushrooms work best for this recipe?
Button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms are fantastic choices because they hold their texture well and have a mild, earthy flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with olive oil, use a dairy-free cream alternative such as coconut cream, and replace parmesan with a nutritional yeast topping for a similarly savory finish.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it?
Definitely. This recipe actually tastes great the next day as the flavors meld beautifully. Just follow proper storage instructions and reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.
What can I serve with this dish to make it a full meal?
Serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice. Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a balanced, satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe a try soon. It’s one of those dishes that feels luxurious without being complicated, perfect for sharing with family, friends, or simply treating yourself after a long day. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved classic in so many kitchens. Enjoy every comforting, flavorful bite!
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Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken is a rich and comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection and smothered in a luscious parmesan garlic cream sauce with sautéed mushrooms and spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal, it offers a delicious blend of creamy textures and savory flavors that pair wonderfully with pasta or rice.
Ingredients
Chicken and Mushrooms
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
Sauce
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half and half
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped spinach
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the thinly sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 3-5 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked through with no pink remaining in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for several minutes until they become tender and release their moisture. Remove the mushrooms and set them aside with the chicken.
- Make the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium, add the butter to the skillet and melt it. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant and tender, about 1 minute. Whisk in the flour and cook for another minute until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth followed by the heavy cream (or half and half), stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, pepper, and salt. Stir until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Simmer with Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the sauce and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken and mushrooms to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat evenly. Heat through briefly, then serve immediately. For a complete meal, serve over cooked pasta or rice if desired.
Notes
- Thinly slicing the chicken breasts helps them cook evenly and quickly.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor and smoother sauce texture.
- Heavy cream will give a richer sauce compared to half and half.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
