Chicken Thighs With Creamy Mushroom Garlic Sauce Recipe

Looking for a comforting, restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to make at home? Chicken thighs with creamy mushroom garlic sauce is the perfect recipe for you. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with a rich, flavorful sauce made with mushrooms, garlic, and cream. The best part? It’s all made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know to prepare this delicious dish, from the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to tips, variations, and more.

this Recipe

What Are Chicken Thighs With Creamy Mushroom Garlic Sauce?

Chicken thighs with creamy mushroom garlic sauce is a savory and satisfying dish where pan-seared chicken thighs are simmered in a luxurious sauce made with mushrooms, garlic, cream, and herbs. The earthy flavor of mushrooms and the aromatic garlic perfectly complement the richness of the cream, creating a sauce that coats the chicken thighs beautifully. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile enough for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients List for Chicken Thighs With Creamy Mushroom Garlic Sauce

To prepare this delectable dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: These offer the best flavor and juiciness.
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil: For searing the chicken.
• 1 tablespoon of butter: Adds richness to the sauce.
• 8 ounces of mushrooms: Sliced. Cremini or white button mushrooms work well, but you can use a mix for more depth of flavor.
• 4 cloves of garlic: Minced. Garlic adds a robust flavor to the sauce.
• 1 cup of chicken broth: Adds flavor and helps to deglaze the pan.
• 1 cup of heavy cream: The base of the creamy sauce, adding richness and body.
• ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme: Adds an earthy, herby note that complements the mushrooms.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce.
• Fresh parsley for garnish: Chopped, to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for a variety of substitutions and variations to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They cook faster and have less fat, though they won’t be as juicy as bone-in, skin-on thighs.
• Chicken Breasts: If you’re not a fan of dark meat, you can substitute chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time, as they may cook faster and can dry out more easily.
• Different Mushrooms: Experiment with different types of mushrooms like shiitake, portobello, or chanterelles for more complex flavors.
• Half-and-Half or Milk: For a lighter sauce, you can substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream. The sauce will be less rich, and you may need to simmer it longer to thicken.
• Herbs: Feel free to add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil for added flavor. Fresh thyme can be used instead of dried thyme, or try adding a few sprigs of fresh rosemary for an earthy touch.
• Wine: Add a splash of white wine when deglazing the pan to add another layer of flavor to the sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your chicken thighs with creamy mushroom garlic sauce:

1. Preheat the Oven (Optional)

If you prefer to finish cooking the chicken in the oven for extra crispy skin, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) now.

2. Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear until the skin is golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Flip the chicken thighs and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and softened, about 5 minutes.

4. Add the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

5. Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These bits add incredible flavor to the sauce.

6. Make the Creamy Sauce

Stir in the dried thyme, then add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for a few minutes until it begins to thicken.

7. Combine and Simmer

Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let the chicken cook in the sauce for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

8. Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the chicken thighs hot, with the creamy mushroom garlic sauce spooned over the top.

How to Cook Chicken Thighs With Creamy Mushroom Garlic Sauce: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here are some key tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:

1. Pat the Chicken Dry: Ensuring the chicken is dry before searing helps achieve crispy skin.
2. Don’t Rush the Searing: Take your time to sear the chicken thighs properly. The golden, crispy skin adds both flavor and texture.
3. Scrape the Pan: When deglazing the pan, make sure to scrape up all the browned bits, as they contribute a lot of flavor to the sauce.
4. Simmer Gently: Once the chicken is added back to the skillet, let it simmer gently in the sauce. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the chicken stays tender and juicy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make sure your chicken thighs with creamy mushroom garlic sauce turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

• Not Searing the Chicken Properly: Searing the chicken thighs on both sides until golden brown is crucial for flavor and texture. If the pan isn’t hot enough, the chicken won’t develop a good crust.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, so be sure to sauté it just until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and then remove it from the heat.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve and present your chicken thighs with creamy mushroom garlic sauce can elevate the dining experience. Here’s how to do it:

How to Serve Chicken Thighs With Creamy Mushroom Garlic Sauce

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides that can soak up the creamy sauce. Here are some ideas:

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce is perfect for spooning over fluffy mashed potatoes.
• Rice or Risotto: Serve the chicken with steamed rice or a creamy risotto to soak up the sauce.
• Pasta: A side of pasta, like fettuccine or pappardelle, complements the rich sauce beautifully.
• Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables, such as green beans, asparagus, or broccoli, make a healthy and delicious accompaniment.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Thighs With Creamy Mushroom Garlic Sauce

For a restaurant-quality presentation:

• Serve in the Skillet: For a rustic, cozy feel, serve the dish directly from the skillet. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.
• Individual Plates: Plate each chicken thigh with a generous spoonful of the creamy mushroom garlic sauce, alongside your chosen sides.
• Family-Style Platter: Arrange the chicken thighs on a large platter, spooning the sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh herbs.

Chicken Thighs With Creamy Mushroom Garlic Sauce Recipe Tips

Here are some additional tips to help you perfect this dish:

• Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms have the best texture and flavor. Avoid using canned mushrooms for this recipe.
• Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce: If your sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or cream to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken.
• Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, use them instead of dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: Yes, you can use milk, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. You can also use half-and-half as a middle ground between milk and cream.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes

, you can make the dish ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating if the sauce has thickened too much.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: While you can freeze the chicken, the sauce may separate upon thawing due to the cream. If you do freeze it, reheat the dish gently and stir well to bring the sauce back together.

Q: Can I use other meats?
A: This sauce pairs well with other meats like pork chops or even turkey cutlets. Adjust the cooking time based on the meat used.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Chicken thighs with creamy mushroom garlic sauce is a comforting and elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. With tender, juicy chicken thighs and a rich, flavorful sauce, it’s a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Follow the steps and tips outlined in this guide, and you’ll have a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and enjoy the wonderful flavors of this delectable dish tonight!

Print