This Easy Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast Recipe features tender chicken that practically falls apart with every bite. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor!
If you like juicy chicken that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this is the dish for you. I often pair it with rice or veggies for a complete meal. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for tenderness. If you prefer, thighs work well too for a richer flavor and juicier texture.
Chicken Broth: I recommend low-sodium broth to control the saltiness. You can substitute vegetable broth if you’re looking for a vegetarian option but want to maintain flavor.
Heavy Cream: If you want a lighter dish, half-and-half or even whole milk can be used. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream or cashew cream!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can be a quick substitute (about 1/4 teaspoon for every clove).
Herbs: Dried thyme is my personal favorite for this recipe, but you can use Italian seasoning or even fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for a fresh twist.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Sear on Chicken Breast?
Crispy outside and juicy inside—achieving that perfect sear is key to this recipe. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil. This helps the chicken to brown nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to keep the temperature steady.
- Leave the chicken alone for the first few minutes to develop a crust. Only flip when golden brown!
Following these tips will make your chicken beautifully browned and packed with flavor!
Easy Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time, followed by 25 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll be ready to enjoy your melt-in-your-mouth chicken in about 35 minutes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. This helps them sear better. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and dried thyme (or Italian seasoning) to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Let it melt, and then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
4. Combine Broth and Cream:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Use a spatula to scrape the bottom of the pan to release all the flavorful browned bits. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes, which will help it thicken slightly.
5. Cook the Chicken:
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and incredibly tender.
6. Finish the Sauce:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet again. Let the sauce continue to simmer until it reaches your preferred thickness.
7. Serve Up:
Pour the delightful sauce over the chicken breasts and garnish with fresh parsley if you like a touch of color. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious melt-in-your-mouth chicken!
Bon appétit! Your tender chicken is ready to be enjoyed! 🍽️
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful than breasts, making them a great substitution. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may need a few extra minutes to cook through.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Just make sure to check the broth and butter also for dairy-free options if needed!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy them cold or reheat them gently on the stove to keep the chicken tender.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken in the sauce! Just let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove.
