This Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken is a winner on busy nights! Tender chicken is cooked in a creamy, garlicky sauce that will make your taste buds dance. So comforting!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts work great for this recipe. If you’re short on time, consider using tenderized chicken or even chicken thighs, which can add more flavor and juiciness.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just know that the sauce might not be as thick and creamy, but still tasty!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use minced garlic from a jar or even garlic powder, though fresh is truly unbeatable. I usually go for an extra clove—because more garlic equals more flavor!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated freshly is best, but pre-grated works too. If you need a substitute, try Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Each gives a tasty twist to the sauce!
How Do You Make the Sauce Extra Creamy?
The secret to a creamy sauce lies in how you combine the ingredients. After cooking the garlic, make sure you don’t rush this step. Here’s what to do:
- Reduce the heat on your skillet to medium after cooking the chicken, to prevent the cream from curdling.
- Deglaze with chicken broth to lift all the flavorful bits stuck at the bottom of the pan. This adds depth to your sauce.
- As you stir in the cream and cheese, keep stirring constantly to ensure everything combines smoothly without lumps.
- Let the sauce simmer gently; this helps it thicken while enhancing the flavors. Patience is key!
With these tips, your creamy garlic chicken will be a hit! Enjoy the cooking and the delicious meal!
How to Make Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken
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 heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano and basil)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you’re strapped for time but still want something delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This will help 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. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Check that they have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, turn the heat down to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, making sure it doesn’t burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Next, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck at the bottom. This will add incredible flavor to your sauce!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now, add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir continuously for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and is well combined. You may want to adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper at this stage.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet, allowing them to soak up some of that delicious sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and let it simmer for another 3-5 minutes to meld the flavors and ensure the chicken is heated through.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm over pasta, rice, or alongside your favorite steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Enjoy your creamy, garlicky chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it first. For best results, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can use the cold water method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water until thawed. Make sure to pat it dry before cooking.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream. For cheese, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheese-like flavor without the dairy. The sauce may taste slightly different, but it’ll still be delicious!
How Should 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 stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
What Can I Serve with Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Enjoy experimenting with different sides!
