This Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken is rich, tasty, and perfect for a quick dinner! Chicken is cooked until golden and smothered in a creamy garlic sauce that will make your taste buds dance.
You can’t go wrong with garlic, right? I love how this dish comes together in just one pan. Serve it with rice or pasta, and you have a meal that feels fancy but takes hardly any time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, thighs work well too, as they add extra flavor and moisture.
Heavy Cream: This creates the rich sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Just keep in mind the flavor will change slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really shines in this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works, but the fresh stuff adds a nice punch. I always opt for fresh when I can!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan offers a wonderful nutty flavor. You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
How Do I Make a Smooth Cream Sauce?
Making a creamy sauce is all about timing and temperature. Here’s how to ensure your sauce turns out perfectly smooth:
- After sautéing the garlic, make sure your chicken broth is hot before adding the cream. This helps the cream incorporate better.
- Stir the cream continuously as it warms up; don’t let it boil. A simmer is your best bet for a creamy texture.
- Introduce the Parmesan gradually, stirring until fully melted to avoid clumps. This ensures a silky consistency.
With these tips, you’ll have a gorgeous and creamy garlic sauce that brings your chicken to the next level! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- For the Cream Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Time Needed:
This Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 25-30 minutes, making it a quick yet satisfying dish for any day of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This adds great flavor to the meat!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. You want it fragrant, but be careful not to burn it! Next, pour in the chicken broth, using a spatula to scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
4. Add Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash more broth to reach your desired consistency.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken, and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm everything through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
To finish, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. This creamy garlic chicken is delicious served over rice, pasta, or alongside your favorite vegetables. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to fully thaw it first. Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy garlic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream works well, just keep in mind that it will add a slight coconut flavor.
What Can I Serve with Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
