Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken

$- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini) - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 tablespoon butter - 1/4 cup heavy cream - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 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. {{ingredient_image_1}} 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. {{image_2}} 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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 cooking!$

Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken

A delicious chicken dish featuring sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and creamy Parmesan sauce.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 2

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

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

Instructions

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.

Notes

Serve with a side of pasta or rice for a complete meal.

Keyword chicken, creamy, garlic, mushrooms, Parmesan