This Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken is a total crowd-pleaser! Juicy chicken cooked in a rich, creamy garlic sauce makes every bite delicious and comforting.
You can serve it over pasta or rice—the sauce is so tasty, I often find myself licking the plate! It’s quick to prepare, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe, as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re looking for variety, you can substitute with chicken thighs for added flavor and juiciness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that rich flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder works in a pinch—use about 1/2 teaspoon for each clove.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce creamy and rich. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano can substitute well. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free option, adding a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Get My Chicken to Cook Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken correctly is crucial for this dish. Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken; this helps achieve a beautiful golden crust. Follow these steps:
- Season your chicken generously. This enhances flavor.
- Let chicken cook without moving it too much. This helps in browning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking for juiciness.
How to Make 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 heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, bringing the total to about 25 minutes. Quick and easy, right? You’ll have delicious creamy garlic chicken ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This seasoning will enhance the flavors 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 seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a lovely golden brown color. 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 add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it cooks quickly!
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This adds great flavor to your sauce! Next, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through and combine the flavors beautifully.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, dress up your dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. This adds a lovely pop of color and freshness. Serve your creamy garlic chicken over cooked pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Enjoy your delicious Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken!
FAQ
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will bring even more flavor and tenderness to the dish. Just ensure you cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, similar to chicken breasts.
What if I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. If using milk, consider adding a tablespoon of flour to help thicken the sauce as it simmers.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time! Simply store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to rehydrate the sauce if needed.
