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Keto Chicken and Mushroom Skillet (Rich & Comforting) - A Weeknight Favorite

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts; thighs are juicier)
  • 1 pound cremini or baby bella mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 tablespoons butter (or ghee)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small shallot, finely minced (or 1/4 small onion)
  • 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream (or 1/2 cup cream + 1/4 cup chicken broth for a lighter sauce)
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan (freshly grated for best melt)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for brightness)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes, a pinch (optional, for heat)
  • Lemon wedge (optional, to finish)

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat chicken dry and cut into large bite-size pieces. Season with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and Italian seasoning if using.
  2. Heat the pan: Set a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter.
  3. Sear the chicken: Add chicken in a single layer. Don’t crowd. Cook 4–5 minutes per side until browned and just cooked through. Transfer to a plate and tent loosely.
  4. Sauté the mushrooms: Add remaining olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Toss in mushrooms and a pinch of salt. Cook, undisturbed, 2 minutes to get color, then stir and cook 4–6 minutes until golden and their moisture evaporates.
  5. Aromatics in: Lower heat to medium. Add shallot and cook 1–2 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Build the sauce: Add heavy cream and Dijon. Stir in thyme and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer gently 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
  7. Add cheese: Sprinkle in Parmesan and stir until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. If too thick, splash in a little chicken broth or water.
  8. Finish with chicken: Return chicken and any juices to the skillet. Simmer 2 minutes to warm through and marry flavors.
  9. Brighten and serve: Squeeze a little lemon over the top (optional). Garnish with parsley. Serve over cauliflower rice or with sautéed greens.