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Creamy Mushroom Chicken Thighs – A Rich and Delicious 30-Minute Dinner

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These Creamy Mushroom Chicken Thighs are tender, juicy, and smothered in a rich garlic Parmesan mushroom sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting skillet chicken dinner is perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs. boneless chicken thighs (about 6 thighs)
  • 2 tbsps. light-tasting olive oil
  • ½ tsp. salt, or less to taste (for chicken)
  • ½ tsp. black pepper (for chicken)
  • 2 tbsps. all-purpose flour (omit for keto)
  • ½ lemon (for rubbing the chicken)
  • 8 oz. Baby Bella or cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 tbsps. butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp. freshly ground black pepper (for sauce)
  • 1 tsp. onion powder
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for fewer calories)
  • 1 cup half-and-half
  • ½ cup chicken stock or water
  • ½ tsp. salt, or more to taste (for sauce)
  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for thickening and garnishing)
  • 1 tbsp. fresh oregano leaves or chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs and rub them with the lemon half. Pat dry with paper towels, then season with ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Lightly coat with the all-purpose flour, if using.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear for 6–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer the chicken to a bowl or plate and cover loosely with aluminum foil to keep warm.
  3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and the garlic is fragrant.
  4. Pour in the heavy cream, half-and-half, and chicken stock or water. Add the freshly ground black pepper, onion powder, and remaining ½ teaspoon salt. Stir well to combine, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
  5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, if using, until melted and incorporated. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the sauce gently simmer for 2–3 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  6. Return the cooked chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning the creamy mushroom sauce generously over each piece. Cover and simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the chicken is heated through and coated in the sauce.
  7. Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh oregano leaves, chopped parsley, or additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

  • For a keto-friendly version, omit the all-purpose flour and use heavy cream instead of half-and-half if preferred.
  • For a lighter sauce, substitute the heavy cream with additional half-and-half. The sauce may be slightly thinner.
  • Baby Bella or cremini mushrooms provide a rich, earthy flavor, but white button mushrooms also work well.
  • Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a savory flavor and helps thicken the creamy mushroom sauce.
  • For a milder pepper flavor, reduce the tablespoon of freshly ground black pepper to ½–1 teaspoon, according to taste.
  • Avoid boiling the cream sauce vigorously, as gentle simmering helps maintain a smooth, creamy consistency.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or cauliflower mash to soak up the delicious mushroom sauce.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream if the sauce becomes too thick.
  • Nutrition values are approximate per serving and assume all ingredients, including the flour and Parmesan cheese, are used.

Nutrition