Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and paprika on both sides.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook Chicken:
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Mushroom Sauce
- Melt Butter:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter.
- Cook Onions and Garlic:
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook Mushrooms:
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Deglaze the Pan:
- Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add Cream and Seasonings:
- Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), dried thyme, and dried parsley. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return Chicken to Skillet:
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve the chicken with garlic mushroom sauce hot, over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Chicken with Garlic Mushroom Sauce
- Even Cooking: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Mushroom Variety: Feel free to mix different types of mushrooms for a more complex flavor.
- Creaminess: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Extra Flavor: Add a splash of white wine when deglazing the pan for an extra layer of flavor.
Conclusion
This Chicken with Garlic Mushroom Sauce is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. The tender chicken breasts paired with the rich, creamy mushroom sauce make for a delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Serve it with your favorite side dishes and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!