Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mushroom Chicken (Low Carb Keto)

So You Want a Creamy, Cheesy Chicken Hug on a Plate? So you’re craving something tasty but too lazy to spend forever in the kitchen, huh? Same. That’s exactly why creamy garlic parmesan mushroom chicken exists to make you look like a culinary rockstar without actually having to fight your way through some complicated recipe. Low carb? Check. Keto-friendly? Double check. Deliciously comforting? Oh, you better believe it.
This dish is basically what happens when chicken, mushrooms, and cream get together and decide to form a band. And the garlic and parmesan? Total lead singers. By the time you’re done, you’ll be wondering why you ever settled for plain grilled chicken.
Why This Recipe is Awesome
Let’s be real—this recipe is awesome because:
- It’s idiot-proof. Seriously. Even if your idea of cooking is “burn toast occasionally,” you got this.
- It’s creamy AF. Like, the kind of creaminess that makes you want to lick the pan. Not judging.
- Low carb but still decadent. Keto eaters rejoice your macros won’t hate you.
- Minimal cleanup. One pan? One spoon? That’s all you need. Less scrubbing, more Netflix.
Honestly, this dish is basically a hug from the inside. And who doesn’t need that sometimes?
Ingredients You’ll Need
Alright, let’s not overcomplicate things. Here’s what you need for a plate of happiness:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – If you’re feeling fancy, pound them slightly so they cook evenly.
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced – White button, cremini, whatever you can snag from the store.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Or more if you’re secretly a vampire hunter.
- 1 cup heavy cream – This is the magic. Don’t skimp.
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese – Freshly grated = chef points. Pre-grated = still good.
- 2 tbsp butter – Because fat is flavor.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – For that initial sizzle.
- Salt & pepper – Duh. Don’t get fancy, just season generously.
- Optional: fresh parsley – For that Instagram-worthy pop of green.
Optional extras that are nice but not required: a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little kick, or a splash of chicken broth if your sauce is feeling too thick.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s where the magic happens. Keep it simple, keep it tasty.
- Prep your chicken. Pat your chicken breasts dry, season both sides with salt and pepper. Trust me, seasoning early = flavor city.
- Sear the chicken. Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chicken. Sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Don’t overthink it; just get a nice crust. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the mushrooms. In the same skillet, toss in the mushrooms. Add a pinch of salt to help them release their moisture. Cook until they’re browned and soft, about 5 minutes. Don’t rush mushrooms deserve their moment.
- Add garlic. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds. You want aroma, not burned garlic burned garlic = sad flavor.
- Make it creamy. Reduce heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in parmesan cheese and the remaining 1 tbsp butter. Stir gently until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine chicken & sauce. Return chicken to the pan and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer together for 3–5 minutes to let the flavors mingle.
- Finish & garnish. Taste and adjust salt/pepper. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and, if you’re fancy, a little extra parmesan. Boom. Dinner is served.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Ah, rookie mistakes. Don’t let them haunt you:
- Skipping the sear. Chicken without a golden crust? Sad. Don’t do it.
- Overcooking the chicken. Chicken + cream = rubber nightmare if you overdo it. Keep an eye!
- Burning the garlic. One second too long and you’ve ruined the garlic vibe. Respect it.
- Crowding the mushrooms. Too many mushrooms at once = steaming, not browning. Nobody wants soggy mushrooms.
Alternatives & Substitutions

Feeling adventurous or low on ingredients? I got you:
- Chicken: Chicken thighs work too and are juicier. Just adjust cook time.
- Mushrooms: Swap with zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach for a veggie twist.
- Heavy cream: Coconut cream works in a pinch (good for dairy-free/keto).
- Parmesan cheese: Pecorino or Grana Padano will do; cheddar is… not the same, but hey, I won’t judge.
- Butter: Ghee is your keto BFF here.
Honestly, flexibility is the secret to happiness in cooking. Or maybe wine. Probably both.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yeah, but the sauce thickens in the fridge. Just warm gently and maybe add a splash of cream. Don’t nuker it too long.
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: Technically yes, but why hurt your soul like that? Butter is life.
Q: What’s the best mushroom for this?
A: Cremini or white button. But honestly, any mushroom that doesn’t scream “I’m weird” will work.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Chicken might get a little sad after freezing, but the sauce freezes okay. Reheat gently.
Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: Red pepper flakes, cayenne, or just a little sassy attitude while you cook. Your choice.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely. Thighs = juicier. Just adjust the cooking time a bit.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it creamy garlic parmesan mushroom chicken, low carb, keto-friendly, and basically life-changing. It’s fancy enough to impress someone but simple enough that you won’t break a sweat.
Now go impress someone or yourself with your new culinary skills. Pour a glass of wine, throw on some music, and enjoy that first bite of creamy, cheesy, garlicky heaven. You’ve earned it, chef.
