Savor juicy cheesy garlic mushroom chicken smothered in a rich, creamy sauce—perfect for a comforting dinner that feels gourmet but cooks in one pan!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe combines kitchen staples with a dash of Italian-inspired flair! Each ingredient plays a starring role in creating the rich taste, luscious texture, and mouthwatering presentation of Cheesy Garlic Mushroom Chicken. Here’s what goes into this ultimate comfort food:
- Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless halves for fast cooking and easy slicing; they’re the perfect canvas for soaking up all the flavors.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for maximizing the flavor of every layer—don’t skip seasoning both sides of the chicken.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps create that beautiful golden sear on the chicken.
- Butter: Lends a silky finish and enhances both the mushrooms and the sauce’s depth.
- Garlic: Four freshly minced cloves create the savory backbone of the entire dish—feel free to add even more if you’re a garlic lover!
- Mushrooms: Earthy, meaty mushrooms absorb the creamy sauce—choose cremini or button for best results.
- Heavy cream: The secret to a velvety, restaurant-style sauce that clings lovingly to every bite.
- Parmesan cheese: Brings salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce to perfection.
- Mozzarella cheese: For that gooey, stretchy finish on top—it’s the ultimate cheesy touch.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties everything together with a fragrant lift.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a final flash of color and freshness—don’t skip this for a gorgeous finish.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Mushroom Chicken
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This basic step is key for juicy, flavorful chicken! Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the chicken. Sear each side for about 4 to 5 minutes until beautifully golden and nearly cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm—you’ll bring it back soon for a creamy, cheesy reunion.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Mushrooms
In the same skillet (don’t wipe it clean—you want all those flavorful brown bits!), melt the butter. Toss in the minced garlic and let it become wonderfully fragrant, then add your sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms turn soft, deep brown, and are practically begging for cream.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and immediately stir in the grated Parmesan and Italian seasoning. Let everything simmer together for about 2 to 3 minutes as the sauce thickens and the scents become irresistible. By now, the Cheesy Garlic Mushroom Chicken aroma will have everyone drifting into the kitchen.
Step 4: Assemble and Melt the Cheesy Topping
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them down into the sauce. Generously spoon some sauce and mushrooms over the top of each piece. Sprinkle a full cup of shredded mozzarella all over—and watch as it starts to melt and turn deliciously gooey. Cover the pan and let everything simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, until the cheese is melty and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve!
Turn off the heat and finish with a flourish—a shower of freshly chopped parsley over the whole skillet. This pop of green is more than just garnish; it brings brightness and a touch of freshness to balance all the rich flavors in your Cheesy Garlic Mushroom Chicken.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Mushroom Chicken
Garnishes
For the best presentation and a final layer of flavor, always finish this dish with finely chopped fresh parsley. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan right before serving can add a touch of salty sparkle as well. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of good olive oil or a squeeze of lemon can really wow your guests.
Side Dishes
Cheesy Garlic Mushroom Chicken loves to be surrounded by classic sides. Try it with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or twirl-worthy pasta to soak up every drop of sauce. A crisp green salad, steamed asparagus, or sautéed spinach add color and freshness, making for a well-balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your Cheesy Garlic Mushroom Chicken by serving it straight from a cast iron skillet—talk about rustic-chic vibes! Slice the chicken and fan it over a bed of buttered noodles for a dinner party-ready look. For gatherings, turn this dish into sliders using mini buns, or spoon it over toasted bread for gourmet open-faced sandwiches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your leftovers cool completely, then place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. Cheesy Garlic Mushroom Chicken keeps well for up to 3 days, making it ideal for next-day lunches or a cozy dinner remake.
Freezing
Freezing is possible with this dish! For best texture, let the chicken and sauce cool, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the creamy consistency and cheesy goodness.
Reheating
Warm Cheesy Garlic Mushroom Chicken gently over low heat in a covered skillet, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce needs loosening. You can also use the microwave—cover with a microwave-safe lid and heat in short bursts, stirring often to make sure everything is heated evenly and stays deliciously creamy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs make a juicier, even more flavorful alternative. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
How do I make Cheesy Garlic Mushroom Chicken gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, since there’s no flour involved in the sauce or as a coating. If you plan to pair it with pasta or bread, choose gluten-free options for the sides.
Which mushrooms are best for this recipe?
Button mushrooms and cremini (baby bella) mushrooms both absorb the sauce beautifully. But don’t hesitate to use whatever you have on hand—shiitake and portobello add deeper, richer flavors if you’re feeling adventurous.
Can I make this dish lighter?
To lighten things up, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even evaporated milk. Keep in mind the sauce may be a bit less rich, but still plenty delicious!
Is this Cheesy Garlic Mushroom Chicken spicy?
Not at all! The dish is creamy and savory, but you can spice things up by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce if you want a gentle kick.
Final Thoughts
Bring a little magic to your dinner table with Cheesy Garlic Mushroom Chicken—it’s simple, indulgent, and always met with rave reviews. If you’re ready for a meal that makes even an ordinary weeknight feel special, this is the one to try. Grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and let this dreamy, cheesy creation become a new staple in your home kitchen.
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Cheesy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Savor juicy cheesy garlic mushroom chicken smothered in a rich, creamy sauce—perfect for a comforting dinner that feels gourmet but cooks in one pan!
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For Topping & Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and nearly cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside on a plate.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, sautéing for 4–5 minutes until mushrooms are soft and browned, and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the Cream and Cheese: Pour in heavy cream, add grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir well and simmer the sauce for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Finish the Dish: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the sauce over each, and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top. Cover and simmer on low heat for 5–7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- For even faster prep, slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise to reduce cooking time.
- Use cremini or baby bella mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Pair with steamed rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce.
- If your sauce gets too thick, thin it with a splash of chicken broth or milk.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 425 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 155mg