Creamy Mushroom Chicken Thighs

Name: Creamy Mushroom Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 2 cups sliced mushrooms (cremini or button); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love cooking creamy mushroom chicken thighs because they are one of my go-to comfort meals. The combination of tender chicken and rich, savory mushrooms creates a dish that feels both indulgent and satisfying. As I sauté the chicken, it fills my kitchen with an inviting aroma that promises a delicious meal ahead. I appreciate how easily this recipe comes together, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. I can't wait for you to try it and enjoy the incredible flavors as much as I do!

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-02-08T02:57:35.940Z

When I first made creamy mushroom chicken thighs, I was pleasantly surprised by how easily the flavors melded together. The key is to sear the chicken skin-side down until golden brown; this step locks in juiciness and adds depth. I also like to use a mix of fresh and dried herbs, such as thyme and parsley, which elevate the dish significantly.

Another tip I learned is to give the mushrooms room in the pan to brown properly. Stacking them too closely results in steaming rather than sautéing. The end result is a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken, making every bite extraordinarily satisfying!

You will love this recipe because
The creamy sauce makes every bite a delight
Perfectly tender chicken thighs infused with robust flavors
Quick enough for a weeknight yet impressive for guests

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this recipe is the chicken thighs, which provide juiciness and rich flavor due to their higher fat content compared to chicken breasts. I always opt for bone-in, skin-on thighs as they retain moisture during cooking, ensuring tender meat. If you're looking for a lighter option, boneless, skinless thighs can work, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to prevent drying out.

Mushrooms are another key ingredient here, adding an earthy depth to the creamy sauce. Cremini mushrooms not only bring flavor but also have a firmer texture, which holds up well during cooking. If you want a different flavor profile, you can substitute them with shiitake for a more pronounced taste or use a mix of your favorite varieties.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Searing the chicken properly is crucial for developing a rich flavor base for the sauce. Ensure your skillet is hot enough by testing with a drop of water; it should sizzle immediately. Ideally, you want the skin to be golden brown and crisp, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If the skin sticks to the pan, it’s likely not ready to flip yet—so give it a little more time.

When creating the sauce, don’t rush the simmering process after adding the chicken back to the skillet. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken beautifully. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon. If it’s too thick, just whisk in a bit more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for this luscious recipe:

Ingredients

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
2 cups sliced mushrooms (cremini or button)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create a delicious meal:

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until softened. Add the sliced mushrooms, thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to brown.

Create the Sauce

Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up, and simmer on low for about 15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thick.

Serve

Once ready, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.

Enjoy your creamy mushroom chicken thighs!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce before adding the cream. It enhances the richness and adds a delightful layer to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy mushroom chicken pairs wonderfully with whipped mashed potatoes, which can soak up the luscious sauce, providing an exquisite balance of flavors and textures. Alternatively, consider serving it over a bed of buttery egg noodles for a quick and comforting meal. You can also add sautéed greens like spinach or broccoli on the side for a healthy pop of color and nutrition.

For a more casual option, serve the chicken on toasted baguette slices or alongside crusty bread, allowing guests to indulge in scooping up the rich sauce. The versatility of this dish makes it suitable for both weeknight dinners and elegant gatherings.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftover creamy mushroom chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can dilute the sauce. If you prefer to freeze, I recommend separating the sauce and chicken to prevent the cream from separating upon reheating—all can be kept frozen for up to two months.

When reheating, do so slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure the cream sauce doesn’t curdle. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water until the desired consistency is restored. This ensures that each bite remains just as creamy and delicious as when you first made it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used. Just adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the creamy mushroom chicken thighs. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.