This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken is a restaurant-quality comfort food recipe made right at home. Juicy pan-seared chicken breasts are smothered in a rich garlic mushroom sauce and served over tender pasta with sautéed spinach. It’s the perfect high-protein dinner recipe, ideal for family meals, date nights, or even meal prep.

If you’re searching for easy chicken dinner ideas, creamy mushroom chicken recipe, or a one-pan skillet meal, this dish checks every box. It’s flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to make.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

For the Mushroom Sauce:

• 8 oz fresh mushrooms (sliced)

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 cup chicken broth

• ¾ cup heavy cream

• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley (optional)

For Serving:

• 8 oz fettuccine or egg noodles

• 2 cups fresh spinach

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Pasta

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2️⃣ Season & Sear the Chicken

Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove and set aside.

3️⃣ Cook the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and slightly caramelized.

Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4️⃣ Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Lower heat and stir in heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and thyme. Simmer until thickened (about 3–4 minutes).

5️⃣ Wilt the Spinach

Add fresh spinach and stir until wilted.

6️⃣ Combine Everything

Return chicken to the skillet. Spoon sauce over the top and simmer for 3–4 minutes.

Serve over pasta and garnish with parsley.

🥗 Nutrition Benefits (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 550–650

• Protein: 40g

• Carbohydrates: 35–45g

• Healthy fats from olive oil

• Iron & antioxidants from spinach

This recipe works well for those looking for:

• High-protein dinner ideas

• Muscle-building meals

• Comfort food recipes

• Easy weeknight dinners

💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Mushroom Chicken

✔ Use cremini or baby bella mushrooms for deeper flavor
✔ Don’t overcrowd mushrooms — let them brown
✔ Deglaze pan with white wine for gourmet flavor
✔ Substitute half-and-half for lighter sauce
✔ Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

🔄 Variations

• Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash

• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta

• Keto-Friendly: Skip pasta and increase spinach

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless skinless thighs stay juicier and add extra flavor.

2. What mushrooms are best for creamy chicken?

Cremini, baby bella, or white button mushrooms work best. For gourmet flavor, try shiitake.

3. How do I thicken mushroom sauce?

Simmer longer, add more parmesan, or mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with water.

4. Can I meal prep this recipe?

Absolutely. Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

5. Can I freeze creamy mushroom chicken?

Yes, though cream-based sauces may slightly separate when reheated. Stir well while warming.

6. What wine pairs well with mushroom chicken?

A dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy garlic flavors.