If you love meals that feel cozy, comforting, and downright delicious, then you are going to adore this Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of juicy chicken cutlets, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, creamy Parmesan-garlic sauce that just wraps your taste buds in a warm hug. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this dish comes together quickly and effortlessly, making it a reliable go-to for a weeknight dinner or special occasion alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe is simple but plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture, ensuring every bite is packed with satisfaction.
- 1 1/2 pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts: The main protein, perfect for quick cooking and soaking up flavors.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps create a golden, crispy coating on the chicken.
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce, bringing out the best tastes.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat and depth.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for searing the chicken, providing a nice crust and preventing sticking.
- 1 pound mushrooms (such as cremini): Earthy and tender, they give the sauce its signature flavor and meaty texture.
- 1 onion (diced): Brings a touch of sweetness and savory aroma to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon finely minced garlic: The star aromatic, adding irresistible depth and warmth.
- 1/2 cup less-sodium chicken broth: Creates a base for the sauce that’s rich but not overpowering.
- 3/4 cup heavy cream: Blends the sauce into a silky, indulgent texture.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme: Or dried thyme if you don’t have fresh—adds a fragrant herbal note.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Key to the dish’s signature flavor, melting smoothly into the sauce.
- Hot cooked pasta or rice (optional): Because this saucy chicken tastes incredible served over something to soak it all up.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds a bright, fresh finish and a pop of color on top.
How to Make Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the coating mixture
Start by mixing the all-purpose flour with kosher salt and ground black pepper in a shallow bowl. This seasoned flour will give the chicken a wonderful golden crust while seasoning it evenly from the outside in.
Step 2: Sear the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, coating it well. Cook in the hot oil for 3 minutes on each side, achieving a gorgeous golden-brown sear. The chicken should still be slightly pink in the center since it will finish cooking later. Set aside on a plate to rest.
Step 3: Cook mushrooms, onion, and garlic
Lower the heat to medium and add the mushrooms, diced onion, and garlic to the same skillet. Stir often, letting the mushrooms release their moisture and the onion soften, cooking until everything is tender and lightly browned—about 7 minutes. This step builds the rich foundation of flavor for your sauce.
Step 4: Create the creamy Parmesan sauce
Pour in chicken broth and stir well, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift those savory browned bits. Add the heavy cream, chopped thyme, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously as the sauce gently simmers, thickening and becoming lusciously smooth over about 4 minutes.
Step 5: Return chicken to the skillet
Nestle the seared chicken cutlets back into the skillet alongside the sauce, spooning the sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 2 minutes to finish cooking through and absorb those mouthwatering flavors. The sauce should cling to the chicken beautifully.
Step 6: Serve hot and fresh
Serve your Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe piping hot, either spooned over steaming pasta or rice that can soak up every bit of that silky sauce. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan on top finishes the dish with color and extra cheesy goodness.
How to Serve Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley chopped and sprinkled over the top adds a delightful freshness and color contrast that makes every serving look as good as it tastes. Plus, a little extra Parmesan on the table invites everyone to customize their bite for more cheesy indulgence.
Side Dishes
This dish is fantastic over hot pasta or fluffy rice, but you can also pair it with buttery mashed potatoes or crusty bread to mop up that incredible sauce. For a vegetable side, try garlic sautéed green beans or roasted asparagus to keep things vibrant and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Serve the chicken on a large warm platter with a bed of herb-infused risotto or creamy polenta. You can also slice the chicken thinly and arrange it atop a fresh arugula salad drizzled with balsamic glaze for a lighter yet flavorful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from this Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce tends to thicken overnight, so consider loosening it with a splash of broth or cream when reheating.
Freezing
This dish freezes well. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the texture and flavor of the chicken and sauce.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from breaking. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between each until warmed through, adding a little extra broth if the sauce feels too thick.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Absolutely! While cremini mushrooms are excellent for their flavor and texture, you can substitute button mushrooms, shiitake, or even morels for a gourmet touch. Just be mindful of cooking times as some varieties release more water than others.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a small amount of flour to help thicken. Keep in mind the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy but will still taste delicious.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to coat the chicken. Ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free to keep the entire dish safe to eat.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the meat is no longer pink inside. Cooking it initially until slightly pink and finishing in the sauce helps keep it juicy and tender.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with this creamy Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe, balancing the richness with bright acidity and complementing the earthy mushrooms and savory herbs.
Final Thoughts
This Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that makes dinner feel special without demanding hours in the kitchen. It’s packed with flavor, comforting textures, and a sauce so good you’ll want to savor every drop. I can’t wait for you to try it, share it with loved ones, and make it one of your favorite recipes to come back to again and again.
Print
Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Parmesan-Garlic Mushroom Chicken recipe features tender, thin-sliced chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection and smothered in a creamy mushroom and Parmesan sauce. Enhanced with garlic, fresh thyme, and a touch of heavy cream, this dish is perfect served over pasta or rice for a comforting and elegant meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1/2-inch thick)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt (plus more to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper (plus more to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Mushroom Sauce
- 1 pound mushrooms (such as cremini, thinly sliced, or whole morels if using)
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon finely minced garlic
- 1/2 cup less-sodium chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more to serve)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Optional
- Hot cooked pasta or rice for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the flour mixture: In a shallow bowl, mix all-purpose flour with kosher salt and ground black pepper until well combined, ensuring even seasoning throughout the flour.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Dredge each chicken breast piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, then place in the hot skillet. Cook for about 3 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and nearly cooked through but still slightly pink in the center. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté mushrooms and aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add sliced mushrooms, diced onion, and minced garlic to the same skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, for approximately 7 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture, the liquid evaporates, and the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
- Make the sauce: Pour chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to enrich the flavor. Add heavy cream, chopped thyme, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Continue cooking, stirring often, for about 4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish cooking the chicken in sauce: Return the chicken cutlets along with any accumulated juices back to the skillet. Nestle the chicken into the sauce, covering them mostly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and heated through.
- Serve: Serve the chicken and mushroom sauce over hot cooked pasta or rice if desired, or on a serving plate with the sauce spooned on top. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness.
- If fresh thyme is unavailable, dried thyme can be used.
- More Parmesan cheese can be sprinkled on top according to taste.
- Ensure chicken breasts are sliced thinly (about 1/2 inch) for even cooking.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up extra sauce if not serving with pasta or rice.
