This Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe is that ultimate comfort food you turn to when you want something guaranteed to wow everyone at the table, but with minimal fuss. Picture tender chicken breasts swaddled in a creamy, garlicky sauce bursting with earthy mushrooms and a generous shower of Parmesan — every bite is velvety and packed with flavor. Best of all, it’s a one-pan wonder that’s elegant enough for company yet quick enough for a weeknight dinner. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or just looking to elevate your nightly rotation, this is one recipe you’ll fall in love with again and again.

Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe is in its simple and thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital part in building layers of savory flavor, giving the dish its classic richness and irresistible aroma.

Chicken breasts: Opt for boneless, skinless breasts, pounded to even thickness to ensure juicy, evenly cooked results.
Salt: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of both chicken and mushrooms.
Black pepper: Adds gentle heat and depth to the overall seasoning.
Garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with subtle, aromatic garlic flavor from the start.
Olive oil: Perfect for getting that delicious golden sear on the chicken.
Unsalted butter: Richly flavors the mushrooms and gives the sauce that luxurious finish.
Cremini or white mushrooms: These add earthy depth, rich umami, and lovely texture to the sauce.
Fresh garlic: Minced garlic turns the sauce fragrant and mouthwatering when sautéed.
Thyme: Fresh or dried, thyme introduces a herby, woodsy note that pairs beautifully with mushrooms.
Heavy cream: The base of our luscious sauce—it thickens and brings everything together in creamy harmony.
Parmesan cheese: The star flavor, adding nutty, salty complexity and helping to thicken the sauce.
Chicken broth: Adds depth and keeps the sauce perfectly silky without overwhelming the other flavors.
Fresh parsley: A final vibrant garnish provides a pop of color and fresh, herbal finish.

How to Make Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness — this little trick means every piece cooks through perfectly and remains wonderfully tender. Lightly season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, ensuring the flavor gets right into the meat. Don’t skip this step; seasoning early is truly the foundation of a great Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, lay the chicken breasts in without crowding the pan. Let them sear for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until beautifully golden and just cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate; they’ll finish cooking as they rest and later in the sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms

Turn the heat down to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Add your sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 6 minutes. You want them caramelized and softened, which brings out their umami-rich flavor and gives the Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe that classic earthiness.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Thyme

Toss in the minced garlic and thyme, stirring for about one minute until fragrant. This is the moment when your kitchen will start to smell genuinely irresistible.

Step 5: Deglaze and Build the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, using your spoon or spatula to scrape up any golden brown bits from the pan’s bottom — those are pure flavor. Let everything simmer for two minutes so the sauce picks up all those delicious, savory notes.

Step 6: Creamy Parmesan Finish

Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan, letting the sauce bubble gently for 3 to 4 minutes. It’ll thicken into a silky, cheesy blanket that will envelop the chicken in creamy perfection.

Step 7: Simmer Chicken in Sauce

Return the seared chicken breasts (and any accumulated juices) to the pan, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon a bit of the sauce over each piece, then let everything simmer another 2 or 3 minutes so the flavors meld and the chicken heats through.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Scatter fresh parsley over the top for color and a fresh bite. Serve the Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe hot, making sure every plate gets plenty of that addictive sauce.

How to Serve Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley is classic, but you can also add extra shaved Parmesan or a crack of black pepper for a little flair. If you want even more color, a handful of microgreens or a drizzle of good olive oil right before serving does wonders for presentation.

Side Dishes

This creamy chicken practically begs to be paired with smooth mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or buttered egg noodles — anything that’s perfect for soaking up extra sauce. Roasted or sautéed green beans, broccoli, or even garlicky spinach round out the meal and lend some vibrant color to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe family-style in a big, shallow platter; let guests help themselves and drizzle on extra sauce. For an elegant dinner, slice the chicken before topping with the sauce — it looks beautiful fanned out on each plate. Individual gratin dishes or mini cast iron pans are also a show-stopping touch for special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftover chicken and sauce cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the chicken and sauce together, as the sauce helps keep the meat moist and flavorful when reheating.

Freezing

This Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe freezes surprisingly well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Lay flat so they take up less space, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring the sauce partway through to heat evenly. Take care not to overcook, so the chicken stays tender.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a bit more forgiving and stay even juicier. Just note they might require a few extra minutes of cooking depending on thickness.

Is it ok to use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be slightly thinner. Whole milk works too, but the sauce will not be quite as rich or silky.

How do I keep the chicken breasts from drying out?

Pounding the chicken evenly and not overcooking are key. Sear only until just cooked through, and let the chicken finish gently in the sauce for the juiciest results.

What other herbs would taste great in this dish?

Fresh rosemary, sage, or tarragon can add lovely new flavor twists. You could also swap in basil or oregano for a hint of the Mediterranean.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Brown the chicken in batches and make the sauce in a larger skillet or Dutch oven. This Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe scales up beautifully for dinner parties or weekly meal prep.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a meal that’s packed with flavor, surprisingly effortless, and sure to become a staple, put this Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe at the top of your list. It truly brings people together around the table, leaving everyone asking for seconds. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this creamy, garlicky delight — you’ll be so glad you did!

Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe

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4.5 from 12 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a creamy and flavorful dish with this Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken recipe. Tender chicken breasts are seared to perfection and smothered in a rich Parmesan cream sauce with sautéed mushrooms and garlic. A satisfying and comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

Pound and Season Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet, sear chicken until golden brown and cooked through, then set aside.
Cook Mushrooms: In the same skillet, cook mushrooms until browned. Add garlic and thyme, sauté until fragrant.
Make Sauce: Pour in chicken broth, simmer. Stir in cream and Parmesan, simmer until thickened.
Combine and Serve: Return chicken to pan, spoon sauce over, simmer until heated through. Garnish with parsley and serve.