This Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken is a must-try! Juicy chicken is cooked until golden and then smothered in a rich, creamy garlic sauce that will have you licking your plate.
Seriously, the smell alone is enough to make your mouth water. It’s the kind of dish you could impress dinner guests with, or just treat yourself! I love serving it over pasta or rice for a complete meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are ideal for this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs. They’re juicier and still work great in creamy sauces.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even Greek yogurt, but note that the texture and richness will change. I personally prefer heavy cream for that luscious feel!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a wonderful flavor, but if you want to save some calories or find it hard to source, you can try using Pecorino Romano or even a dairy-free alternative if needed.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is a must for the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but fresh has that robust taste you don’t want to miss out on!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken perfectly is vital for this recipe! Here’s how to get it right:
- Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps create a crispy outer layer.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. This ensures even cooking.
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer helps a lot!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
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
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and then around 20 minutes actually cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This is important for getting great flavor right into the meat!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a nice golden color and to ensure they are cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Making the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant—make sure not to burn it! Then, pour in the chicken broth and use a spatula to scrape any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
4. Adding the Cream and Cheese:
Next, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Let this simmer for 3-5 minutes. You’ll notice it starting to thicken, which is exactly what you want!
5. Bringing it All Together:
Now, add the chicken breasts back into the skillet. Spoon some of that delicious sauce over the top of the chicken and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to warm everything through.
6. Serving:
Finally, garnish your creamy garlic chicken with some freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot with your choice of pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but you need to completely thaw the chicken first! The best method is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also thaw it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for about an hour. Always ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop and add the chicken until warmed through.
What Is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce thickens too much upon cooling, you may want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free cream alternative such as coconut cream or cashew cream. For the Parmesan cheese, there are many plant-based cheese options available that can work well. Just be sure to check that they melt nicely!
