This creamy garlic chicken is so tasty and simple! Juicy chicken gets a bath in a rich and cheesy garlic sauce that makes every bite special. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up this sauce. Just sauté, stir, and let it shine! I love serving it over rice or pasta for a meal that feels fancy but comes together fast.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you’re looking for an alternative, thighs work well too, as they stay juicy. You could also use tofu or plant-based chicken if you’re vegetarian.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a strong flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch—about 1/8 teaspoon per clove. I always prefer fresh for a richer taste.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream creates that luscious sauce. If you’re looking to lighten things up, half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like almond or coconut cream can work, just note that it may change the texture a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a wonderful cheesiness. Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor if you want a vegan option.
How Do You Make Sure Your Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken properly is key for tenderness. Always start with pre-seasoned chicken; this enhances flavor. Use medium-high heat, cooking each side until golden brown while ensuring insides reach 165°F. Here’s how:
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking—this retains juices.
- Keep the heat steady and don’t overcrowd the skillet to achieve that perfect sear!
Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe With Easy Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 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
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy garlic chicken recipe takes about 30 minutes total: 10 minutes for prep and approximately 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This will give your chicken plenty of flavor!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You want them to have a nice sear! Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to rest.
3. Making the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can get bitter!
4. Adding Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These bits add incredible flavor! Let the broth simmer for about 2 minutes.
5. Creating the Creamy Sauce:
Now, lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened slightly, which will take about 3-5 minutes.
6. Combining with Chicken:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the delicious sauce over them. Let it cook for another 2 minutes just to heat everything through.
7. Garnishing and Serving:
Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your creamy garlic chicken over pasta, rice, or even steamed vegetables—whatever you like best. Enjoy your wonderful meal!
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s completely thawed first! Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the quick method of sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water. Pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream to refresh the sauce if needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream for a lighter version. Just note that this might slightly alter the richness and texture of the sauce.