This creamy garlic chicken is a winner for quick dinners! It’s packed with flavor from garlic and a rich sauce that makes your taste buds dance happily!
You just pan-fry the chicken, add the creamy sauce, and bam—you’re ready to eat! I love serving this dish over pasta or rice. It feels fancy, but it’s really simple to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their tenderness and quick cooking time. If you want to switch things up, try thighs for more flavor or use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the star here, bringing strong flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be a substitute, though fresh is always best for that punch!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a milk and cornstarch mixture. You can also use coconut cream for a dairy-free twist. It adds a slightly different flavor, though!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is classic, but feel free to use Pecorino Romano or Nutritional Yeast for a dairy-free alternative. Just remember the taste might be a tad different!
Italian Herbs: If you don’t have dried Italian herbs, you can mix dried basil, oregano, and thyme in equal parts. Fresh herbs can work too if you’re feeling fancy!
How Do I Get the Chicken Cooked Perfectly?
Getting your chicken perfectly cooked is key! Here’s how you can ensure juicy, tender chicken:
- Flatten the chicken breasts slightly for even cooking. A quick pound with a meat mallet works wonders!
- Don’t rush it! Medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side allows for a golden crust without overcooking.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking. This helps retain its juices. Just set it aside while you make the sauce!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken every time!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken
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 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy garlic chicken takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients, and then around 20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, season each chicken breast generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This little step makes a big difference in flavor!
2. Sauté the Chicken:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook each side until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about a minute until it’s fragrant—but be careful not to let it burn! Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and dried Italian herbs into the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes, stirring it occasionally, until it thickens slightly. This is where all the lovely flavors come together!
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Now it’s time to bring the chicken back into the mix! Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some of that delicious sauce over them, and let them cook together for another 2-3 minutes to ensure they are heated through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your creamy garlic chicken with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it warm over pasta, rice, or with some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Enjoy your deliciously creamy and garlicky dinner! This recipe is sure to become a household favorite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s important to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or quickly place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for about an hour. Pat them dry before seasoning and cooking!
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cornstarch. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream or cashew cream. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy garlic chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if it seems too thick.
What Should I Serve With Creamy Garlic Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even steamed vegetables. For a low-carb option, consider serving it over zucchini noodles or with a side salad for a fresh complement!
