This Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken is a dish that shines with rich flavors! Juicy chicken breasts are cooked with garlic in a smooth and creamy sauce that makes every bite feel special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use chicken thighs for extra flavor and juiciness.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream gives the sauce a rich texture, you can substitute it with half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter version. Just know the flavor will be different!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, try using grated Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key, but if you’re out, you can use garlic powder. Just be careful with the amount; start with about 1/8 teaspoon for a good balance of flavor.
How Do You Make Sure Your Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken can sometimes lead to dryness, but here are a few tips to keep it juicy:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps create a nice sear.
- Avoid overcooking. Chicken breasts usually take about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer for precision; aim for 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This helps retain moisture.
Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes to get this creamy garlic chicken on your table and impress everyone!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This step adds flavor right from the get-go!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook until they are golden brown on both sides and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes per side. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about a minute until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits that have stuck to the bottom. Those bits are packed with flavor!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens up a bit.
6. Combine and Simmer:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up that delicious flavor.
7. Serve:
Garnish your creamy garlic chicken with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot. It pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or steamed veggies—whatever you fancy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender result, you can also use chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as dark meat may take a little longer to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free version, you can use half-and-half, coconut cream, or even almond milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch to thicken it up. Keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce creamy.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately. Cook the chicken right before serving to ensure it stays juicy. Just reheat the sauce when ready to combine and serve.
