Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for any day of the week. The rich flavors of garlic and mushrooms combined with tender chicken create a meal that feels special yet is easy to prepare. This recipe is not only delicious but also involves simple ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. It’s great for family dinners or impressing guests, making it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
8 oz fresh cremini or button mushrooms, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
3/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Additional salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin during cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden. Flip and cook the other side briefly for about 2-3 minutes, then remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the diced mushrooms and minced garlic. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until mushrooms release moisture, start to brown, and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and gently scrape up any browned bits from the pan with a wooden spoon. Allow the broth to reduce slightly, then stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently until thickened and velvety.
Nestle the chicken thighs back into the creamy mushroom sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender and the sauce is infused with flavor.
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or thyme over the top before serving directly from the skillet for a fresh, vibrant finish.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. The creamy sauce is perfect for spooning over your starch of choice. Add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the meal. Serving it straight from the skillet also adds a rustic touch that’s great for casual dining.

How to Store Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs

To store any leftovers, place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you wish to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it fully before reheating.

Tips to Make Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in olive oil, salt, and pepper for a few hours before cooking.
You can use different types of mushrooms such as shiitake or portobello for a unique taste.
If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk, but this might change the richness of the sauce.

Variation

You can add spinach or kale to the dish for added greens. Simply throw in a couple of handfuls before adding the chicken back to the sauce. The greens will wilt down nicely and blend well with the creamy sauce.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but reduce the cooking time as they will cook faster.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it before serving. The flavors will meld beautifully after sitting for a bit.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk with cornstarch to thicken it, though it won’t be as rich and creamy.