This creamy garlic chicken and mushroom recipe is a simple yet elegant dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Tender chicken breasts are cooked alongside earthy mushrooms in a rich, creamy garlic sauce. It's a crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly easy to make! This recipe caters to various skill levels, ensuring a delicious outcome whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice.
What You'll Need:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 lb cremini mushrooms, sliced (or a mix of cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms for a more complex flavor)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and thyme.
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Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Mushrooms: Add the butter to the skillet and melt. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown (about 5-7 minutes).
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Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and white wine (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly.
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Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the creamy sauce.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with various mushrooms. A mix of cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms adds a delightful depth of flavor and texture. Portobello mushrooms can also be used, but you might want to slice them a bit thicker.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before adding the chicken and simmering.
What can I serve this with?
This creamy garlic chicken and mushroom dish pairs beautifully with various sides. Pasta (fettuccine or tagliatelle work well), rice (especially creamy risotto), mashed potatoes, or crusty bread all make excellent accompaniments.
How do I thicken the sauce if it's too thin?
If your sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a few more minutes, or by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. Whisk the slurry into the sauce and simmer until thickened.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prepping! You can cook a larger batch and store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
This creamy garlic chicken and mushroom recipe is a versatile and delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
