One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken

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If you’re craving something cozy, flavorful, and easy to prepare in under an hour, this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken checks every box. Perfectly seared chicken breasts swim in a luxurious, garlicky parmesan cream sauce, hugged by earthy mushrooms and tender baby spinach. It’s the kind of dish that feels like restaurant-quality comfort food—without ever leaving your kitchen.

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, intimate dinners, or when you simply want to impress with minimal effort. The one-pan method means less cleanup, and the bold, creamy flavors make every bite utterly satisfying. Pair it with crusty bread, pasta, or even mashed potatoes to soak up that heavenly sauce.


Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, having the right tools on hand will make all the difference:

  • Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: The hero of this dish. A wide, deep pan ensures even browning of the chicken and allows space for the sauce and veggies to mingle.
  • Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for slicing mushrooms and mincing garlic with ease.
  • Tongs or Spatula: Helps flip chicken pieces without tearing the golden crust.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key when balancing cream, cheese, and seasonings.
  • Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the creamy sauce without scratching your pan.

Having everything prepped and ready to go will streamline your cooking process and allow the flavors to build without interruption.


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Ingredients for the One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken

Each ingredient plays a role in building the flavor and creamy texture:

  • Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide a lean protein base that sears beautifully.
  • Baby Bella Mushrooms: These add earthiness and soak up the sauce like little flavor sponges.
  • Fresh Garlic: Intensifies the savory notes and makes the cream sauce irresistible.
  • Heavy Cream: Brings richness and creaminess, balancing the savory garlic and parmesan.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty depth and helps thicken the sauce naturally.
  • Chicken Broth: Enhances the sauce with umami while keeping it from being overly heavy.
  • Spinach: Adds color, nutrients, and a subtle bitterness that cuts through the richness.
  • Butter and Olive Oil: The duo ensures a flavorful base and golden sear on the chicken.
  • Salt, Pepper, Italian Seasoning: Simple but essential for balanced flavor.

How To Make the One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a hot skillet with butter and olive oil, sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic

In the same pan, add more butter if needed and toss in the sliced mushrooms. Sauté until browned, then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir gently, scraping up any brown bits for added flavor. Let simmer for a few minutes.

Step 4: Add the Parmesan and Spinach

Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Add spinach and cook until just wilted.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the sauce. Simmer gently for a few more minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.


How to Serve and Store Your Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken

Serve this dish hot, spooned over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice to catch every drop of sauce. A side of garlic bread or roasted veggies complements it beautifully.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

For longer storage, freeze portions without the spinach (which can become mushy) for up to 2 months.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Thighs will add a bit more fat and flavor, just adjust cooking time as needed.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt can work, but the sauce won’t be as rich.

Can I add pasta directly to the pan?

Yes! If the pasta is pre-cooked or nearly done, stir it in at the end to coat with sauce.

Is it keto-friendly?

Yes—just skip the pasta or bread and serve with cauliflower rice or steamed veggies.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can try unsweetened coconut cream and dairy-free cheese, though flavor and texture will vary.

How do I thicken the sauce more?

Let it simmer a few extra minutes uncovered, or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.


Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this creamy mushroom chicken, here are more dinner winners from Life With Olivia:

For even more creamy and delicious dinners, check out my daily recipes on Pinterest: Life With Olivia on Pinterest.


Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with spinach or swap in kale? Did you spoon it over pasta or go low-carb?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.


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One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken


  • Author: Olivia McKenney
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This cozy one-pan chicken dish is swimming in a rich parmesan garlic mushroom cream sauce with tender spinach—an easy, flavorful dinner that feels like a warm hug in every bite.


Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 tablespoons butter (divided)

8 oz baby bella mushrooms, sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

2 cups fresh spinach

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste


Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

2. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken until golden on both sides (about 5-6 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

3. Add remaining butter to the pan. Sauté mushrooms until browned. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and simmer gently.

5. Add parmesan cheese and stir until melted into a creamy sauce.

6. Toss in spinach and stir until just wilted.

7. Return the chicken to the pan, spoon sauce over the top, and simmer for 3-5 more minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

8. Serve warm with pasta, potatoes, or bread.

Notes

Let the sauce simmer uncovered to thicken naturally if it feels too loose.

You can use chicken thighs for more flavor and moisture.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat boost.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: One-Pan
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 410
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 560mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: chicken, parmesan, mushroom, creamy, skillet

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