This creamy garlic chicken is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken breasts are bathed in a rich, garlicky sauce that makes your taste buds dance with joy.
Honestly, the smell alone will have everyone flocking to the kitchen. I love serving it over some fluffy rice to soak up that delicious sauce. Yum!
This recipe is super easy; just cook the chicken and stir together the sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner when you want something special without a fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for their tenderness. If you’re in a pinch, you can use thighs for extra flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Heavy Cream: This is what gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Just know the flavor will change a bit!
Garlic: Fresh garlic has the best flavor, but if you’re out, garlic powder (about 1/2 teaspoon) can work in a pinch. I’ve even used roasted garlic for a sweeter touch.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a lovely nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
How Do I Make the Cream Sauce Just Right?
Making the cream sauce is the heart of this dish, and it’s super simple! Here’s how to ensure it turns out smooth and delicious.
- After sautéing the garlic, make sure to scrape the skillet – those little browned bits add amazing flavor!
- When adding the heavy cream, keep stirring to combine it well with the broth and Parmesan. Whisking helps keep the sauce lump-free.
- Let it simmer gently; too high heat might curdle the cream. You’re looking for a slight thickness, about 3-5 minutes.
- For the best flavor, taste and adjust seasoning before adding the chicken back in. A pinch of salt or extra cheese can brighten it up!
Creamy Garlic Chicken with Easy Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and 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 (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy garlic chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time. So, in just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor right to the chicken. It’s super important to get it evenly seasoned!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked all the way through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and add the butter. Allow it to melt, then add in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth while scraping up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Those bits add fantastic flavor! Then, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, whisking until the mixture is smooth. If you’re using Italian seasoning, add it now!
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens a bit. Keep stirring gently to avoid sticking. This is where all the magic happens!
6. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
Now, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over them and let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to heat through. This step infuses the chicken with all that garlicky goodness!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is warm and ready, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your creamy garlic chicken hot, ideally over some fluffy rice or pasta to soak up the delightful sauce.
Enjoy your delicious creamy garlic chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Yes! If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk, although the sauce will be less creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream. Just be aware that it will change the flavor slightly!
What Can I Use Instead of Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly with different cheeses.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just cook the chicken, make the sauce, and store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving. Adding a splash of cream can help refresh the sauce!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also add a touch of cream or broth to bring the sauce back to life!
