This Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken is a cozy and tasty dish that brings wonderful flavors to your table! Tender chicken is cooked in a rich, creamy garlic sauce that makes every bite delightful.
This dish is a winner for busy nights because it’s quick to make. I love to serve it over rice or pasta, and trust me, you’ll want to savor every bit of that sauce. Yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey cutlets can be a good substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder, but keep in mind that the taste won’t be as vibrant. I usually add a smidgen more powder if I’m making that swap!
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream creates that luscious sauce. If you’re aiming to lighten this up, using half-and-half or coconut milk works fine, but the texture may change slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is a classic choice for flavor. If you’re out of it, try pecorino or a good-quality cheddar. Nutritional yeast is a great vegan option for a cheesy flavor!
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken just right is key to this dish! You want it golden brown on the outside and tender inside. Here is how to achieve that:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken—this helps create a nice sear.
- Cook each side for 5-6 minutes without moving them around. This allows for an even browning.
- To check for doneness, cut into the thickest part of the chicken. It should be white all the way through, and the juices should run clear.
Using a meat thermometer can be particularly handy; chicken is safe to eat at 165°F (75°C). This technique ensures your dish turns out juicy and flavorful!
Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
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 chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and seasoning the chicken, and then around 20 minutes cooking everything to creamy perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This adds flavor right from the start!
2. Searing the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked. When they are done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cooking the Garlic:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as garlic can turn bitter if overcooked.
4. Deglazing the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom. This step adds even more flavor to your sauce!
5. Making the Creamy Sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you want a little kick. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it slightly thickens. Stir occasionally to combine everything well.
6. Finishing the Chicken:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure to coat them in the creamy sauce. Let them simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes to warm through and meld the flavors together.
7. Garnishing and Serving:
Once the chicken is ready, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it hot with a side of rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables to soak up that delicious creamy garlic sauce. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a juicier flavor and can be used in the same way as breasts. Just adjust the cooking time, as thighs may need a few more minutes to cook through, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What if I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you’re out of heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour to help thicken the sauce. Keep in mind, the sauce will be slightly less rich, but still delicious!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli can be added to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. Simply sauté them with the garlic before adding the chicken broth.
