This Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken is a real treat! Tender chicken cooked in a rich and creamy garlic sauce makes it super comforting and delicious. Perfect for a family dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are classic here for their lean texture. If you prefer, thighs can be juicier and add more flavor. Also, using leftover rotisserie chicken can save time!
Garlic: Fresh cloves are best for this dish since they offer a vibrant flavor. You could use garlic powder in a pinch, but it won’t have the same punch. Personally, I always go fresh for the best taste!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works well, or for a dairy-free version, try coconut cream or cashew cream for a unique twist.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan will melt beautifully into the sauce. For substitutes, Pecorino Romano adds a slightly sharper taste, or nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep your chicken tender and juicy, follow these tips:
- Don’t overcook the chicken; cook it just until it’s no longer pink in the middle.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
- Sealing the chicken with the creamy sauce during the final simmer helps lock in moisture.
Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 30 minutes to make. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking, which is perfect for a quick and tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasonings both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This will give your chicken lots of flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. When done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; we just want to release those wonderful garlic flavors!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. This will create a rich and creamy base for your sauce.
5. Add the Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly. This adds a delightful cheesy flavor!
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the creamy garlic sauce over them. Allow them to simmer together for 2-3 minutes so all the flavors can meld together.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your creamy garlic chicken with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and a bit of freshness. Serve hot with your choice of pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables, and enjoy the delightful creamy, garlicky goodness!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken
Can I Use Other Meats Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with pork chops or shrimp. Adjust cooking times as needed: shrimp will take about 3-4 minutes per side, while pork chops will require around 6-8 minutes depending on thickness.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a little cornstarch to thicken it. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream or cashew cream for a deliciously creamy texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Simply store them separately in the fridge and reheat them together when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure not to reheat on high heat to avoid overcooking the chicken.
