This creamy garlic chicken is a delicious dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner! Juicy chicken breasts are cooked until golden and smothered in a rich garlic sauce that will make your taste buds dance.
I love how simple it is to whip up this meal, and the aroma while it cooks is heavenly! Pair it with rice or veggies, and you’ll have a plate of joy ready to enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are my go-to for this dish; they’re easy to cook and absorb flavors well. You could substitute with chicken thighs for a richer taste or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a strong, lovely flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder works in a pinch—just use 1/8 teaspoon for each clove. I love using fresh, though, for that pop of aroma!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creaminess. If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half or coconut milk, but the flavor will change slightly. I’ve found that light cream still offers great results.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan is best for a lovely, creamy texture and rich flavor. You can use Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
Herbs: I suggest fresh basil for garnish; it’s refreshing! If you can’t get it, dried basil or even thyme can bring a nice flavor. Fresh herbs really elevate this dish, though!
How Can You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken Breasts?
Cooking chicken breasts perfectly ensures they’re juicy and flavorful. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with even chicken breasts—if they’re thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly.
- Season the chicken well with salt, pepper, and spices. Don’t hold back, as seasoning adds depth!
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring the oil is hot before adding the chicken. This will give you a nice sear.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This keeps it juicy.
- Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep them moist before adding to the sauce.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh basil leaves
- Chopped parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and 20 minutes to cook the dish. In total, set aside around 30 minutes for this delicious meal from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika on both sides. Make sure every piece is well-coated to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear 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 them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are beautifully browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
Using the same skillet (for maximum flavor!), add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
4. Add Cream and Broth:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring everything together. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Incorporate Cheese:
Add the grated parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce feels too thick for your liking, don’t hesitate to add a little extra chicken broth to adjust the consistency.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the seared chicken breasts back to the skillet. Spoon the creamy garlic sauce over them and let everything simmer gently for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken through.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is heated and combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your dish with fresh basil and chopped parsley if you’d like, then serve hot. This creamy garlic chicken goes wonderfully with rice or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra flavor and moisture to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time: thighs usually take about 7-10 minutes on each side to ensure they are fully cooked. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and flour (1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of flour whisked together). Keep in mind that the sauce will be less rich, so you might want to add an extra sprinkle of cheese for 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, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Without Cheese?
Yes, you can! If you want to make it dairy-free or cheese-free, simply leave out the Parmesan. You can enhance the flavor with additional herbs like thyme or oregano, and perhaps a dash of nutritional yeast for a slightly cheesy flavor.
