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Are you ready to treat your taste buds to a fantastic dish? Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken is simple, tasty, and perfect for any night. With just a few key ingredients like chicken breasts, mushrooms, and Parmesan cheese, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time. Stick around! I’ll take you through each step, tips, and even some fun variations to make it your own. Let’s get cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: This dish combines the savory flavors of Parmesan cheese and garlic with the earthiness of mushrooms, creating a rich and comforting meal.
- Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile Ingredients: The recipe allows for customization; you can easily swap out the mushrooms for other vegetables or adjust the seasoning to match your taste preferences.
- Healthy and Satisfying: Using lean chicken breasts and fresh ingredients makes this dish a healthy option that still feels indulgent, satisfying your cravings without the guilt.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cooking Essentials
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Seasoning and Garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
The main ingredients in Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken include tender chicken breasts, flavorful mushrooms, and rich Parmesan cheese. The chicken provides a great base for this dish, while the mushrooms add earthy notes. Parmesan cheese brings a creamy, salty flavor that enhances everything.
For cooking essentials, I recommend olive oil and butter. They work together to create a lovely sear on the chicken. Heavy cream adds richness to the sauce, while garlic and thyme boost the flavor profile.
When seasoning, use salt and pepper to enhance the dish. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness when you serve it. You can easily find all these ingredients at your local store, making this recipe simple and fun to prepare.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
First, season the chicken breasts. I use salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Make sure to coat both sides well. This step is key. It brings out the chicken’s flavor.
Searing the Chicken
Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil to the pan. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear each side for 5-6 minutes. Look for a golden-brown crust. This gives a nice texture. After cooking, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Sautéing the Mushrooms and Garlic
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add sliced mushrooms right away. Cook them for about 5 minutes. You want them browned and tender. Then, add minced garlic for the last minute. This way, it won’t burn. Garlic adds a lovely aroma.
Creating the Sauce
Now, lower the heat to medium-low. Pour in heavy cream and mix well. Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until it melts and becomes smooth. This creates a rich sauce that coats the chicken.
Combining Chicken and Sauce
Return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon the mushroom sauce over it. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend nicely. The chicken absorbs that creamy goodness.
Serving Suggestions
For a great presentation, plate the chicken with sauce on top. Garnish with fresh parsley. It adds color and freshness. For sides, consider a simple salad or steamed veggies. They complement the dish well.
Tips & Tricks
Choosing the Right Chicken
For this dish, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best. They cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, chicken thighs can add more flavor and tenderness. To keep the chicken moist, brine it in salt water for about 30 minutes before cooking. This simple step helps lock in moisture.
Mushroom Selection Tips
Button and cremini mushrooms are great choices for this recipe. They add a rich, earthy flavor. When shopping, look for firm, plump mushrooms. Avoid any that are slimy or have dark spots. To clean them, wipe with a damp cloth or paper towel. Rinse briefly under cold water if needed, but dry them quickly.
Cheese Options
Parmesan cheese is the star here, adding a salty, nutty taste. If you want to switch it up, try pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast or a vegan cream cheese. Both provide a creamy texture without dairy.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme can enhance the flavor profile significantly compared to dried thyme. Add it just before serving for the best aroma.
- Perfect Chicken Searing: Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve a nice golden crust. Avoid crowding the pan to maintain high heat.
- Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half. This will still give you a creamy texture without overwhelming richness.
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also a fresh flavor. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice over the dish before serving to brighten it up.

Variations
Adding Vegetables
You can easily add spinach or kale to this dish. These greens cook down well and add nutrients. Toss in a handful during the last minute of cooking. You can also use seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. These add color and crunch to your meal.
Alternative Proteins
If you want to switch things up, try turkey or pork. Both meats work well with this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked. For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu. Press it to remove extra water, then cut it into cubes. Sauté the tofu until golden brown before adding the sauce.
Adjusting the Flavor Profile
You can change the taste by adding spices or fresh herbs. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh basil or oregano can brighten the dish. If you want more creaminess, add extra cream or cheese. For a sharper flavor, use aged Parmesan or Pecorino Romano.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
To keep your Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken fresh, store leftovers properly. Place the chicken in an airtight container. Use a container that seals well to avoid air exposure. You can also cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. This keeps moisture in and flavors intact.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken for later. First, let it cool completely. Then, place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container. Seal it tightly to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat. Stir gently until heated through.
Shelf Life
Stored in the fridge, your dish lasts about 3 to 4 days. In the freezer, it stays good for up to 3 months. Always check for signs of spoilage. If you see any mold, or if it smells off, do not eat it. Trust your senses; they help keep you safe.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs. Thighs have more fat, which gives them extra flavor. They also stay tender and juicy. However, you need to adjust the cooking time. Thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook. Always ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or milk with a bit of butter for a lighter option. If you want a dairy-free choice, try coconut milk or almond milk. Both will give creaminess without the dairy. They may alter the flavor slightly but still taste great.
How to make this recipe ahead of time?
To prep ahead, season the chicken and slice the mushrooms in advance. You can cook the chicken and mushrooms but leave the sauce for later. When ready to eat, just combine everything in a skillet. This will save time on busy days.
What to serve with Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken?
This dish pairs well with a side of rice or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans. A fresh salad can add crunch and balance the meal. Choose sides that complement the creamy sauce.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, you can add heat easily! Mix in red pepper flakes while cooking the mushrooms. You can also use hot sauce or add diced jalapeños for a kick. Adjust the spice level to fit your taste.
This guide covers everything you need to make a delicious Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken. You learned about essential ingredients, cooking steps, and helpful tips. I shared variations, storage info, and frequently asked questions. You can easily adjust the dish to match your taste. Remember, cooking is about creativity and fun. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and sharing your meals with loved ones. Happy cookin
Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken
A delicious chicken dish featuring sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and creamy Parmesan sauce.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 2
Calories 400 kcal
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.25 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- to taste salt and pepper
- for garnish fresh parsley, chopped
Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried thyme on both sides.
Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they are browned and tender. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Create the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low, then pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the mushroom sauce over the top. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serve with a side of pasta or rice for a complete meal.
Keyword chicken, creamy, garlic, mushrooms, Parmesan
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