This Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken is a real treat! Juicy chicken pieces are cooked in a rich and flavorful garlic sauce that makes every bite extra special. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Honestly, you’ll be tempted to lick the plate! I like to serve it with rice or pasta to soak up all that amazing sauce. Trust me, leftovers (if there are any) taste even better! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, feel free to use chicken thighs instead—they’re a bit juicier!
Heavy Cream: This is essential for a rich sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or evaporated milk. Note that the sauce might be less creamy.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan works best, but you can substitute with Pecorino Romano if you’re after a sharper flavor. Grated cheese from a can can be used in a pinch, but the texture won’t be the same.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best taste. If you don’t have that, garlic powder can serve in a rush, though it’s not quite as flavorful.
How Do You Get a Rich, Creamy Sauce?
The sauce is what makes this dish truly special, and it’s all about the right technique. Here’s how to ensure you create a delicious creamy garlic sauce:
- Start by allowing the skillet to heat up properly before adding garlic. This ensures it cooks even and doesn’t burn.
- When deglazing the pan with chicken broth, scrape up those browned bits—this adds so much flavor!
- Add the heavy cream and cheese only after the broth has simmered. This allows for the best blend and thickness.
- Stir continuously as it thickens. If it gets too thick, you can always thin it with a splash of more chicken broth or cream.
Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black 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 (or dried basil and oregano)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the chicken and garlic, followed by 20 minutes cooking everything together. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by generously seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This helps enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per 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 Garlic:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Next, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom—that’s where all the flavor is!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Add the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and butter to the skillet. Stir continuously for about 3-5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and the cheese completely melts into a creamy consistency.
6. Return the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet. Make sure to spoon some of that delicious creamy garlic sauce over the top! Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow all the flavors to blend together.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken with freshly chopped parsley. Serve it hot, and enjoy it alongside rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal!
Dig into this creamy, garlicky delight and enjoy every bite!
FAQ About Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely first! The best way to do this is by placing it in the fridge overnight or using the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking to ensure even browning.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and flour to thicken, though it might not be as rich. Using Greek yogurt is another alternative for a tangy flavor, but add it at the end to avoid curdling.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy garlic chicken pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce. For a lighter option, serve it with steamed veggies or a fresh salad.
