This Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken is perfect for busy nights! Juicy chicken is cooked in a rich, creamy garlic sauce that will make your taste buds dance. It’s super delicious and quick to whip up!
I love how this dish feels fancy without being hard to make. Serve it over rice or pasta, and watch everyone come back for seconds. Just try not to lick the plate clean! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. If you’re looking for a faster option, thighs can be a great choice, as they stay juicy and won’t dry out easily.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use pre-grated, or substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth adds depth, but low-sodium store-bought works perfectly too. Feel free to use vegetable broth if you want to keep it lighter or vegetarian.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for the best flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but you’ll miss out on that fresh kick!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
To get that rich, creamy sauce, there are a few key steps. First, be sure to sauté garlic just until fragrant—too long and it can burn, ruining the sauce. Second, when you add the cream and cheese, keep stirring on medium heat until it thickens.
- Deglaze the skillet after cooking the chicken; this adds flavor to your sauce.
- Let the sauce simmer gently; avoid high heat to prevent curdling.
- Returning the chicken to the pan allows it to soak up those great flavors!
Don’t skip the parsley garnish; it adds a fresh touch to your dish. Enjoy your creamy garlic chicken!
Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and 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 Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time, making a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. Quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start off by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium and in the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute or until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any tasty brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Add Cream and Seasoning:
Now, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens up, which will take about 4-5 minutes.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet and spoon the creamy garlic sauce over them. Allow everything to simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes so the chicken can soak up that delicious sauce.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley right before serving. This dish goes wonderfully with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to stay juicier and more flavorful. Just follow the same cooking instructions, adjusting the cooking time slightly if needed, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lower in Calories?
If you want to lighten up the dish, try using low-fat milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a lighter cheese option. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be less creamy but still delicious!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No worries! You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or even water mixed with a bit of seasoning. For more flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of soy sauce to the liquid!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. You might want to add a splash of cream or broth when reheating to refresh the sauce!
