Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken with Green Beans

This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken with Green Beans recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner that balances rich, comforting flavors with fresh, vibrant veggies. Tender chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection, then bathed in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce with earthy mushrooms and crisp green beans. It’s an effortless dish that feels indulgent without any fuss, making it a go-to meal to impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or a dish to elevate your routine, this recipe hits all the right notes.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

There’s something truly satisfying about a creamy skillet meal that comes together in one pan. This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken with Green Beans recipe is not only delicious but also nourishing and balanced. The chicken delivers protein, the green beans add a fresh crunch, and the creamy sauce brings everything together in a way that feels both decadent and wholesome. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight yet elegant enough for a special occasion. Plus, it’s versatile—you can easily swap in other vegetables or serve it with your favorite grain, like rice or pasta. This dish is a true crowd-pleaser that keeps meal times exciting without complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.

What’s in the Bowl

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star protein, juicy and tender.
• 2 cups green beans, trimmed – Adds a crisp, fresh bite and vibrant color.
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced – Earthy flavor and meaty texture complement the chicken.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats every bite.
• 1 cup chicken broth – Adds savory flavor and helps build the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing and developing flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – A subtle herbal note that pairs beautifully with mushrooms.
• Salt and pepper to taste – To season perfectly.
• Fresh parsley for garnish – Adds a fresh, colorful finish.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan – For cooking the chicken and vegetables all in one place.
• Sharp knife – To trim and slice the green beans and mushrooms.
• Cutting board – For prepping ingredients safely.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To keep the sauce perfectly balanced.
• Spatula or tongs – For turning the chicken breasts easily.
• Garlic press or mincer (optional) – For quickly mincing garlic.

Make Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken with Green Beans: A Simple Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and seasoning them generously with salt, pepper, and the dried thyme. Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in your skillet. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear each side for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms and Green Beans

In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and trimmed green beans. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, and the green beans become tender-crisp. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.

Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the broth to reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes. Then, add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce with the mushrooms and green beans. Spoon some sauce over the chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes to heat everything through and meld the flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot, spooning extra sauce over the chicken. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, potatoes, or even the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce.

Make It Fit Your Plan

• Swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative while keeping the richness intact.
• Use fresh thyme instead of dried for a brighter herbal flavor.
• Add red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
• Double the green beans or mushrooms for an extra veggie-packed meal.
• Serve over whole wheat pasta or the Creamy Mushroom Chicken Orzo for a heartier option.

Pro Perspective

When making creamy skillet dishes like this, layering flavors is key. Start by properly searing your chicken to lock in juices and develop that beautiful golden crust. Don’t rush the sauce—letting the broth reduce before adding cream intensifies the flavor and prevents the sauce from being too thin.

• Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to evenly distribute heat and avoid hot spots.
• Fresh garlic always elevates the dish more than pre-minced.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when sautéing mushrooms; they’ll steam instead of brown.
• Adjust seasoning gradually, tasting as you go for the best balance.

Best Ways to Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream sauce from separating. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it back up. This dish also freezes well—freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ask & Learn

Can I use other vegetables instead of green beans?

Absolutely! Broccoli, asparagus, or snap peas would all work beautifully in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times based on the vegetable’s tenderness to keep everything perfectly cooked.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream?

Heavy cream gives the sauce its signature richness and creaminess, but you can substitute with half-and-half or a blend of milk and cream cheese for a lighter option. Keep in mind that thinner dairy alternatives might result in a less thick sauce.

How do I know when the chicken breasts are fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the breast—juices should run clear and the meat should no longer be pink.

Can I prep this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can trim and slice the vegetables and mince the garlic a day ahead. You can also season the chicken breasts and keep them refrigerated until ready to cook. This will make the cooking process quicker and smoother on busy days.

Similar Recipes

• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo – A comforting side with creamy cheese and garlic flavors.
• Creamy Mushroom Chicken Orzo – Another creamy chicken and mushroom delight served over tender orzo pasta.
• Garlic Butter Chicken and Vegetables Skillet – A quick skillet meal loaded with garlic and tender veggies.
• One-Pan Creamy Tuscan Chicken – A flavorful dish featuring sun-dried tomatoes and spinach in a creamy sauce.

That’s a Wrap

This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken with Green Beans recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels special and satisfying. With juicy chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp green beans swimming in a velvety garlic cream sauce, it’s comfort food elevated to a delicious new level. Whether you’re cooking for family or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley and serve it alongside your preferred starch or try it with the creamy orzo recipes linked above for a truly indulgent experience. Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!

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