This Creamy Chicken Gloria is a delightful dish packed with flavor! Tender chicken is cooked in a rich and creamy garlic sauce, making it perfect for special dinners or cozy family meals.
You won’t be able to resist the delicious aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through your kitchen. I like to serve it with rice or pasta to soak up that amazing sauce—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs instead, which tend to be juicier.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream provides richness, but you can swap it with half-and-half or coconut cream if you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free alternative.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. I prefer using three times the amount of garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon) for the same taste intensity.
Herbs: Fresh herbs bring a burst of flavor. If you don’t have thyme or rosemary, dried Italian herbs or even a dash of oregano can work well.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty kick. Feel free to substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
How Do You Achieve Tender and Juicy Chicken?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but this method keeps it juicy. Here’s how:
- Start with room-temperature chicken; let it sit out for about 15 minutes before cooking.
- Heat the oil well before adding the chicken; this helps to get that nice golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; give each piece some space for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety and perfect doneness.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking—this keeps the juices locked in.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have deliciously tender chicken every time!
Creamy Chicken Gloria with Garlic and Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy Chicken Gloria takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish! It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when you want to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides to enhance their flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. 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. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant.
4. Add Herbs and Mustard:
Stir in the dried thyme, crushed rosemary, and Dijon mustard until everything is well combined and coated with the garlic and onion mixture.
5. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce starts to thicken nicely.
6. Finish the Sauce:
Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. Combine and Simmer:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the delicious sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb those wonderful flavors.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm alongside your favorite side dish, such as rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta to soak up that amazing creamy garlic herb sauce. Enjoy!
Dig in and savor your homemade Creamy Chicken Gloria!
FAQ: Creamy Chicken Gloria
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they are juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may need an extra couple of minutes to cook through.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make this dish dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. For the Parmesan cheese, you can use a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Long Do Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! You can easily add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Sauté them with the onion and garlic at the beginning for a delicious twist!
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions, and enjoy cooking!
