Thank you so much for stopping by! I truly appreciate you being here, and I can’t wait to share this cozy, comforting recipe that’s quickly become a weeknight favorite in my home. This Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mushroom Garlic Sauce recipe is rich, savory, and perfect for when you want something hearty and homemade without spending all night in the kitchen. It’s a one-pan wonder that makes you feel like a gourmet chef — with half the effort!
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What Is Chicken Thighs With Creamy Mushroom Garlic Sauce?
This recipe is exactly what comfort food dreams are made of — juicy, pan-seared chicken thighs nestled into a velvety garlic mushroom sauce that’s packed with flavor. The earthy mushrooms, fragrant garlic, and splash of cream come together to create a rich sauce that clings beautifully to the crispy-skinned chicken. It’s rustic, elegant, and truly soul-warming.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan magic: Fewer dishes, more flavor. Everything cooks in the same skillet!
- Ready in under 45 minutes: It’s weeknight-friendly but feels like a Sunday dinner.
- Restaurant-quality: The sauce alone will have you licking the spoon.
- Meal prep-friendly: Make it ahead or double the recipe for delicious leftovers.
- Keto and low-carb adaptable!
What Does It Taste Like?
The flavor profile is bold and deeply savory. You get crispy chicken skin on the outside, tender meat inside, all swirled in a creamy sauce infused with umami-rich mushrooms and the mellow sweetness of sautéed garlic. The cream adds a luscious texture, while optional Parmesan gives it a touch of sharpness. Think comfort food with a touch of elegance.
Health Benefits
Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein and iron, while mushrooms offer antioxidants and immune-boosting nutrients. Garlic is great for heart health and inflammation, and you can easily lighten the cream sauce by using half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.
Ingredients for Creamy Mushroom Garlic Chicken Thighs
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 8 oz cremini or baby bella mushrooms, sliced
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but amazing)
- 1 tsp dried thyme or 1 tbsp fresh
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or cast-iron pan
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Paper towels (for patting chicken dry)
Additions and Substitutions
- Mushrooms: Use shiitake or portobello for a deeper flavor
- Cream substitute: Swap with coconut cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter twist
- Add spinach: Stir in a handful of baby spinach right before serving
- Chicken cut: Boneless thighs or breasts work too — just reduce cook time
- Cheese options: Swap Parmesan with Gruyère or Asiago for a nuttier taste
How to Make Chicken Thighs With Creamy Mushroom Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels (this helps get crispy skin). Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, skin-side down, and sear for 5–7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for 3–4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and sliced mushrooms. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are browned and tender.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Deglaze
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Then pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (hello, flavor!).
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and add thyme. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, letting it thicken slightly. Stir in Parmesan if using, and taste for salt and pepper.
Step 5: Return Chicken to the Pan
Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin side up. Spoon some sauce over the top. Cover and simmer on low for 10–12 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temp should be 165°F/75°C).
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot!
What to Serve With It
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Buttery mashed potatoes
- Steamed rice or wild rice
- Garlic butter noodles
- Roasted asparagus or green beans
- Crusty bread to soak up every drop of sauce (non-negotiable if you ask me!)
Tips for Perfect Chicken Thighs Every Time
- Dry the chicken thoroughly before searing — moisture = soggy skin
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing. Work in batches if needed
- Deglaze properly: Scraping up the brown bits adds major depth to your sauce
- Let the sauce simmer: The flavors develop as it thickens
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness and avoid overcooking
Storage Instructions
Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container:
- Fridge: Up to 4 days
- Freezer: Up to 3 months (though cream-based sauces may separate slightly upon thawing — still delicious!)
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
FAQs About Creamy Mushroom Garlic Chicken Thighs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Just reduce the simmering time by 5–7 minutes since they cook faster.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream alternative, and skip the cheese or use a plant-based option.
What if I don’t like mushrooms?
You can leave them out and double the garlic for a creamy garlic chicken variation. Or sub with sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for a different flavor twist.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes! It reheats beautifully and makes great leftovers. Just store sauce and chicken together so the flavors continue to meld.
In Summary: Creamy Chicken Comfort in a Pan
This Chicken Thighs With Creamy Mushroom Garlic Sauce recipe is the kind of dish that feels indulgent but comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for guests or cozying up on a chilly evening, it’s guaranteed to impress — and satisfy!
If you’re craving even more cozy and delicious chicken recipes, I’ve got you covered. Try this ultra-comforting Homemade Chicken Stroganoff, or surprise everyone with these fun Chicken Alfredo Cheesy Puffs. And for a sweet finish? You have to check out my Baked Churro Bites — crowd-pleasing perfection!
Let’s Get Cooking Together!
I’d LOVE to see how your chicken turns out! If you make this recipe, be sure to leave a review below or share your photos over on Pinterest and tag me — it makes my day every single time!
Nutritional Info (per serving)
Approximate values (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 27g
- Fat: 31g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Chicken Thighs With Creamy Mushroom Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
Juicy, golden-seared chicken thighs simmered in a rich and creamy garlic mushroom sauce—this one-pan dinner is weeknight-easy but tastes like a cozy restaurant favorite. Earthy mushrooms, fragrant garlic, and a touch of Parmesan make it irresistible! Anything but boring!!
Ingredients
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6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
-
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp butter
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8 oz cremini or baby bella mushrooms, sliced
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5 garlic cloves, minced
-
½ cup chicken broth
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
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1 tsp dried thyme or 1 tbsp fresh thyme
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Pat chicken thighs dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken, skin-side down, for 5–7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and mushrooms. Sauté 6–8 minutes until tender and browned.
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Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up brown bits from the pan.
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Stir in heavy cream and thyme. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly. Add Parmesan (if using), and season to taste.
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Return chicken to the pan, skin-side up. Spoon some sauce over the top. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F internally.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite side.
Notes
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You can use boneless thighs or breasts—just reduce cooking time slightly.
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For a dairy-free version, sub heavy cream with coconut milk and skip the Parmesan.
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Add baby spinach in the last few minutes of simmering for extra greens.
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This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to mop up the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: One-Pan, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh + sauce
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: chicken thighs mushroom sauce, creamy mushroom chicken, one pan chicken, garlic cream sauce