Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs
Indulge in this delightful recipe for Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs, a dish that effortlessly mixes comfort and elegance. The creamy sauce, enriched with sautéed garlic and mushrooms, elevates tender chicken thighs to new heights. With easy-to-find ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs brings a harmonious blend of flavors to your table. The richness of the cream paired with the earthiness of mushrooms creates a dish that’s both comforting and gourmet. Chicken thighs are juicy and forgiving, making them a great choice for busy home cooks. This recipe is also adaptable for various dietary needs, allowing you to substitute or add ingredients based on your preferences. Moreover, it’s an excellent way to impress your family or friends without spending all day in the kitchen.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs
Creating Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs is simpler than you might think! Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the cooking process.
Ingredients:
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- 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:
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Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin during cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
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Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and sear for 5 to 7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden. Flip the chicken and cook the other side briefly for about 2 to 3 minutes, then remove the chicken and set it aside.
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In the same skillet, add the diced mushrooms and minced garlic. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until the mushrooms release moisture and begin to brown, and the garlic becomes fragrant.
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Pour in the 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 it thickens and becomes velvety.
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Nestle the chicken thighs back into the creamy mushroom sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender, with the sauce infused with flavor.
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Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley or thyme over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish, and enjoy directly from the skillet.
Pro Tips for Success
- Crispy Skin: Make sure to dry the chicken thighs thoroughly before seasoning to achieve that perfect crispy skin.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan after sautéing the mushrooms.
- Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs greatly enhance the flavor of the dish; feel free to experiment with different ones like tarragon or oregano.
- Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken thighs reach an internal temperature of 165°F for cooking perfection.
- Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking for improved juiciness and tenderness.
Flavor Variations
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach or kale into the creamy sauce for a nutritious twist.
- Cheesy Cream: Stir in some grated parmesan or goat cheese into the sauce for a delightful cheesy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to give the dish an exciting kick.
- Earthy Depth: Experiment with other mushrooms like shiitake or portobello for a more complex flavor profile.
- Herbaceous Touch: Use lemon zest or juice for a zesty brightness that balances the creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it over a bed of freshly cooked pasta or fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish beautifully. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce. For long-term storage, you can freeze the creamy mushroom chicken thighs. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————-|————-|
| Calories | 380 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 650mg |
FAQ About Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, you can certainly use boneless chicken thighs! Just be aware that the cooking time may be shorter since they cook more quickly than bone-in thighs. Make sure they’re cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half and half; however, the sauce may not be as rich. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using coconut cream or a thick cashew cream for similar texture.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t contain any flour or gluten-containing ingredients. However, double-check the chicken broth and any other pre-packaged ingredients to ensure they are labeled gluten-free.
Can I add other flavors to the sauce?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with various seasonings! Adding a splash of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or Dijon mustard can enhance the umami flavor of the sauce.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked properly?
The best way to ensure your chicken is properly cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone; it should read 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken up to the point of adding it back to the sauce, then cool and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently before serving, adding more cream or broth to loosen the sauce as necessary.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs is a deliciously comforting dish that anyone can enjoy. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe showcases how a few quality ingredients can come together to create something truly special. So grab your skillet, and let the cooking adventure begin!
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Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in this delightful recipe for Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs, featuring tender chicken thighs in a creamy garlic and mushroom sauce.
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
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 5 to 7 minutes until crispy and golden. Flip and cook the other side for 2 to 3 minutes, then remove from skillet.
- Add diced mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until mushrooms brown and garlic becomes fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits, and let reduce slightly before stirring in the heavy cream. Simmer until sauce thickens.
- Nestle chicken thighs into the sauce, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes until cooked through.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or thyme before serving and enjoy.
Notes
For crispy skin, ensure chicken is dry before seasoning. Experiment with different mushrooms for varied flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
