This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs Recipe is truly a showstopper for anyone who loves comforting, rich flavors married with tender, juicy chicken. Imagine crispy skin chicken thighs nestled in a luscious garlic cream sauce, studded with perfectly sautéed mushrooms, and finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This dish brings together simplicity and indulgence in a way that makes every dinner feel like a special occasion, yet it’s so straightforward that you can whip it up on any weeknight. It’s an irresistible blend of textures, tastes, and aromas that will have you reaching for seconds – or thirds – without hesitation.

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in building the depth of flavor, creaminess, and texture that defines this recipe. From the rich Parmesan to the aromatic garlic and the meaty mushrooms, everything works in harmony to create that unforgettable sauce and perfectly cooked chicken.

6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: The skin crisps up beautifully while the bone adds extra flavor and juiciness.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For a golden sear that locks in moisture and adds a subtle fruitiness.
1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and helps caramelize the mushrooms perfectly.
8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced: These bring an earthy, meaty element essential for the sauce.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the sauce with an irresistible aromatic punch.
1 cup chicken broth: Creates a flavorful base for the creamy sauce and deglazes the pan.
1 cup heavy cream: The star of the creamy sauce that makes every bite luscious.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, savory depth that enriches the sauce beautifully.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs for warmth and complexity.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Just a touch of heat to balance the richness.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the chicken and sauce.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds freshness and a lovely color contrast.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), then make sure to pat your chicken thighs dry. This step is crucial because dry skin crisps up so much better when searing. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, then place the chicken skin-side down. Let them cook without disturbance for 5 to 6 minutes until the skin is a gorgeous golden brown and crispy. Flip the thighs and sear the other side for 3 to 4 minutes. Once they’re beautifully browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic

In the same skillet, discard excess fat but leave about a tablespoon behind for those beautiful mushroom caramelization moments. Add the butter and let it melt, then toss in the sliced mushrooms. Allow them to cook undisturbed for 5 to 6 minutes until they release their moisture and turn golden brown. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant. This step builds the layered flavor that’s key to the sauce’s deliciousness.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

Now pour the chicken broth into the skillet and use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those tasty brown bits stuck to the bottom. Let this simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavor. Then lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Keep stirring gently and simmer the sauce until it thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll know it’s perfect when the sauce clings lovingly to the mushrooms.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them skin-side up back into the creamy mushroom sauce. Spoon some extra sauce over the top of each piece to keep that skin deliciously flavorful. Then pop the entire skillet in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. The sauce will bubble gently, infusing every bite with rich garlic goodness.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs Recipe

Garnishes

Chopped fresh parsley is not just a pretty garnish but also adds a pop of bright, herbal freshness that cuts through the richness of the sauce. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan right before serving can elevate the dish, too, bringing a lovely salty snap to each bite. If you love a little extra heat, a few more red pepper flakes on top can add just the right punch.

Side Dishes

Serve this Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs Recipe over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that incredible sauce, or pair with al dente pasta for a soul-satisfying meal. Fluffy rice also works wonders as a neutral base to let the flavors shine. For something green and fresh, garlic sautéed spinach or crispy roasted asparagus balance the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, consider serving individual portions on warm plates with the sauce spooned artistically over the chicken thighs and scattered mushrooms. A crusty artisan bread served on the side invites guests to mop up any leftover sauce – because nothing should go to waste! You can also plate the chicken atop creamy polenta for a Southern-inspired twist that feels both comforting and fancy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs are wonderful for next-day meals. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 to 4 days to enjoy the flavors at their freshest.

Freezing

If you want to save the dish for longer, freeze the cooked chicken with sauce in freezer-safe containers or bags. It’s best to freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through. Adding a splash of cream or broth can help revive the sauce’s creamy texture as it warms. Avoid using the microwave if you can, to keep that luscious sauce silky and avoid drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?

Absolutely! Boneless thighs cook faster, so reduce your baking time to about 15 to 18 minutes. The flavor remains rich and the chicken still turns out juicy, though the bone-in version tends to have a bit more depth and a slightly different texture.

What mushrooms work best in this recipe?

Cremini or button mushrooms are perfect for this recipe because of their mild, earthy flavor and firm texture. You could also experiment with baby bella mushrooms for a deeper flavor or even shiitakes if you like a more robust mushroom taste.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe uses only naturally gluten-free ingredients, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Just make sure your chicken broth is labeled gluten-free as some brands might contain additives.

Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Definitely. Leafy greens like spinach or kale stir in beautifully towards the end of simmering to add color and extra nutrition. Roasted red peppers or fresh peas can also be great additions for texture and sweetness.

How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add just a subtle warmth that balances the creamy sauce without overpowering it. If you prefer a milder dish, you can leave them out or add a pinch to taste.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been hunting for the perfect balance of creamy, garlicky, and hearty, this Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs Recipe is ready to become your new favorite. It’s a dish that feels luxurious but is so easy to prepare, making it an ideal recipe to impress loved ones or simply treat yourself to a cozy, satisfying meal. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s worth having this recipe in your regular rotation.

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs Recipe

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4.3 from 20 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs recipe features tender bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs seared to golden perfection and baked in a rich, flavorful garlic cream sauce with mushrooms and Parmesan. It’s a comforting, gluten-free main dish perfect for a hearty family meal, served best over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice to soak up the luscious sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste

Mushroom Cream Sauce

1 tablespoon butter
8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Garnish

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Preheat and Season: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crisp skin. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5 to 6 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Sauté Mushrooms: Discard any excess fat from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add butter to the skillet and melt over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5 to 6 minutes until they are browned and have released their moisture.
Add Garlic and Broth: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Create Cream Sauce: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer the sauce gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Combine and Bake: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet with the skin side up. Spoon some of the sauce over each piece. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and juices run clear.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the chicken and sauce for color and freshness. Serve hot, preferably over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice to enjoy the creamy garlic mushroom sauce fully.

Notes

Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice to soak up the creamy garlic mushroom sauce.
You can substitute boneless chicken thighs; reduce baking time to 15–18 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Add fresh spinach or kale into the sauce for extra vegetables and nutrients.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop and Baking
Cuisine: American