Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe
This creamy garlic mushroom chicken is a rich and flavorful alternative to Chicken Marsala. It features tender chicken in a creamy garlic sauce with mushrooms, perfect for a cozy dinner. It’s simple to make, yet impressive enough for guests!
Ingredients
(Serves 4)
- Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Sauce:
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Lightly pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch) for even cooking.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper. Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms:
- In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened and golden.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Stir in the heavy cream, thyme, and smoked paprika. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
5. Combine and Finish:
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce and mushrooms over the top.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
- Pair with pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Success:
- Chicken Alternatives: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier option.
- Thicker Sauce: For a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the sauce.
- Extra Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more cloves for a bolder flavor.
Suggested Pairings:
- Side Dishes: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
- Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or a simple green salad complement the richness of the dish.
- Bread: A crusty baguette or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Enjoy this creamy garlic mushroom chicken, an easy and satisfying meal that rivals restaurant-quality dishes!