Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Mushrooms Recipe

When comfort food calls, few dishes answer better than Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Mushrooms. This recipe brings together tender, golden-seared chicken breasts and earthy mushrooms coated in a luxuriously smooth Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, a relaxed weekend meal, or even a special holiday spread, this dish offers the kind of warmth that instantly feels like home.

Inspired by classic Italian flavors, this creamy chicken recipe captures the essence of rustic, home-style cooking with a modern twist. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for entertaining guests. The best part? It uses ingredients you probably already have on hand — making it a convenient, satisfying option whenever you crave something hearty, creamy, and full of flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Mushrooms is a crowd-pleaser for so many reasons. Every element of the dish contributes to a perfect balance of flavor and texture: juicy chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a savory, velvety sauce. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your weekly rotation:

• Restaurant-quality flavor at home: With a rich Parmesan cream sauce, this dish feels gourmet without requiring complicated techniques.

• Comfort food made simple: It delivers warmth and satisfaction with minimal effort — ideal for busy cooks.

• Versatile serving options: Serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or with roasted vegetables.

• Family-friendly: The mild, creamy flavor is loved by both adults and kids alike.

• Perfect for special occasions: It’s elegant enough for celebrations but easy enough for weeknight dinners.

Whether it’s a chilly fall evening or a festive holiday gathering, this dish brings everyone to the table — eager for seconds.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium)

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)

• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken
   Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

2. Sear the Chicken
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

3. Sauté the Mushrooms
   In the same skillet, add butter. Once melted, toss in the sliced mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown.

4. Add the Garlic
   Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.

5. Make the Sauce Base
   Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any brown bits from the pan. This adds rich flavor to your sauce.

6. Add Cream and Seasonings
   Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.

7. Melt the Parmesan
   Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir continuously until it melts into the sauce, forming a creamy, velvety texture. If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry at this stage and simmer for another 1–2 minutes.

8. Combine and Simmer
   Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce and mushrooms over them. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

9. Garnish and Serve
   Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh finish. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

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Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

• Yield: 4 servings

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Serving Suggestions

One of the best parts of Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Mushrooms is its versatility. It pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of sides, depending on your preferences or the occasion. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

1. Over Pasta

A classic pairing. Serve the chicken and sauce over fettuccine, linguine, or penne. The creamy Parmesan sauce clings perfectly to the pasta for a satisfying bite every time.

2. With Mashed Potatoes

For the ultimate comfort meal, spoon the sauce generously over creamy mashed potatoes. The flavors meld beautifully with buttery potatoes.

3. With Rice or Quinoa

Serve over fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa for a balanced, wholesome option.

4. With Roasted Vegetables

Add color and nutrition with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or carrots. Their crisp texture contrasts perfectly with the creamy sauce.

5. With Garlic Bread

A side of warm, crusty garlic bread helps you soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce.

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Tips for Success

Creating a perfectly creamy and flavorful dish is all about small details. Follow these tips to ensure your Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Mushrooms turns out perfect every time:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed to ensure it sears properly.

• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated Parmesan ensures a creamy texture.

• Adjust thickness: If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a bit more broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.

• Let it rest: After cooking, let the chicken sit in the sauce for a few minutes so it absorbs more flavor.

• Add greens for balance: Spinach or kale can be added to the sauce for an extra nutritional boost and a pop of color.

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Variations

While this recipe is delicious as-is, you can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.

1. Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Spinach

Add a few handfuls of baby spinach to the sauce in the final minutes of cooking. The greens wilt beautifully and add a fresh, earthy flavor.

2. Creamy Parmesan Mushroom-Only Option

For a vegetarian twist, skip the chicken and use a mix of mushrooms — such as shiitake, oyster, and cremini — for a rich, meatless version.

3. Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli

Stir in lightly steamed broccoli florets for a wholesome variation that adds color and crunch.

4. Dairy-Light Version

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan slightly. You’ll still get a creamy sauce but with fewer calories.

5. Spicy Version

If you love a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.

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Storing and Reheating

Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Mushrooms stores well, making it an excellent meal-prep or make-ahead dish.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s smooth consistency. Avoid microwaving on high heat as it may cause the sauce to separate.

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Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 480

• Protein: 40g

• Fat: 30g

• Carbohydrates: 6g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sodium: 750mg

These values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

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Perfect for Any Occasion

This recipe shines on many occasions, from everyday dinners to special gatherings.

• Family Dinners: The creamy sauce and mild flavors make it appealing for all ages.

• Date Night: Pair it with pasta and candlelight for a cozy, restaurant-style meal at home.

• Holiday Feasts: It’s a great alternative to traditional roasts or heavy casseroles.

• Weeknight Comfort: Quick enough for busy evenings yet satisfying enough to feel like a treat.

Its versatility and simplicity make it a go-to dish that never disappoints.

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How to Make It Ahead

If you want to save time during the week, you can prepare parts of this dish in advance:

• Prep chicken: Season the chicken a day before and store it in the fridge, ready to sear.

• Pre-slice mushrooms and mince garlic: Store them in airtight containers to cut down on prep time.

• Make the sauce: The sauce can be made ahead and stored for up to 2 days. Reheat gently and add freshly cooked chicken before serving.

This make-ahead flexibility makes it ideal for busy weeknights or meal planning.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative to chicken breasts in this recipe. They’re naturally richer in flavor and stay tender even after simmering in the creamy Parmesan sauce. The added fat content in thighs enhances the overall texture of the dish, giving it a deeper, more savory taste. If you prefer dark meat, you’ll love how juicy and flavorful the thighs turn out. Just remember that thighs take a little longer to cook through compared to chicken breasts. To ensure they’re perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer — the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). You can also lightly sear the thighs first for a golden crust, then let them simmer gently in the sauce until tender. This method allows the flavors from the Parmesan and mushrooms to soak into the meat beautifully.

2. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, milk can be used, but expect a lighter, thinner sauce. Heavy cream gives the sauce its signature richness and silky consistency, but if you’d like to make it a bit lighter, you can substitute milk. To maintain some creaminess, it’s best to use whole milk or evaporated milk rather than low-fat options. Adding a small amount of flour (about 1 teaspoon) or a cornstarch slurry can help thicken the sauce to a more traditional creamy texture. If you’re avoiding dairy altogether, unsweetened oat milk or almond milk can also work — though they will slightly alter the flavor. The key is to let the sauce simmer slowly over low heat so it thickens naturally without curdling.

3. What type of mushrooms work best?

Cremini mushrooms (also known as baby bellas) are the most popular choice because they have a robust, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with creamy sauces. However, you can easily experiment with other types of mushrooms to elevate the dish. Button mushrooms offer a milder taste, perfect for those who prefer a subtle mushroom flavor, while shiitake mushrooms add a deep umami note that enhances the savory character of the sauce. For a more gourmet twist, try combining a mix of portobello, oyster, and cremini mushrooms — the blend provides a wonderful range of textures and flavors. Always make sure to clean your mushrooms gently with a damp cloth rather than soaking them in water, as they tend to absorb moisture and can become soggy.

See also  Fall Harvest Veggie Sheet Pan with Herbed Chicken Recipe

4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! The great news is that Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Mushrooms is naturally gluten-free with only minor considerations. The core ingredients — chicken, cream, mushrooms, garlic, and Parmesan — don’t contain gluten. However, it’s essential to double-check labels, as some packaged Parmesan cheeses and broths may include additives that contain gluten. Look specifically for certified gluten-free options to stay safe. If you use cornstarch as a thickener, you’re already in the clear since it’s naturally gluten-free. Alternatively, you can use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as gluten-free substitutes for thickening. Pair this dish with gluten-free pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary needs.

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Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Mushrooms Recipe

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This comforting and flavorful chicken dish combines tender, golden-seared chicken breasts with savory mushrooms in a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want something hearty, satisfying, and easy to make.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium)

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)

• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

• Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.

• In the same skillet, melt butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5 minutes until browned and tender.

• Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

• Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.

• Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

• Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

• If the sauce needs thickening, add the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes until thickened to your liking.

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce and mushrooms over the top. Let it simmer gently for 5 minutes so the flavors combine.

• Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best creamy texture.

• Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts; just adjust cooking time slightly.

• For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

• Add spinach or broccoli for extra vegetables and color.

• Serve with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to make it a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes