This Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken is a comforting dish that features tender chicken cooked in a rich garlic sauce. It’s simple to make and bursting with flavor!
You can serve it over rice or pasta, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you. I love how quick it comes together on weeknights—perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and are easy to slice. If you prefer dark meat, try using thighs instead—they will add a richer flavor.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient makes the sauce creamy and rich. If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just know that it may slightly change the flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re out, garlic powder will do in a pinch—use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove. I love using lots of garlic, so feel free to adjust based on your taste!
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a nice cheesy touch to the sauce. If you don’t have Parmesan, grated Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast can work for a vegan option.
How Do You Get Your Chicken Juicy and Perfectly Cooked?
To achieve juicy chicken, follow these key tips:
- Evenly season your chicken breasts so every bite is flavorful.
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to sear it nicely. This helps lock in moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd your skillet; this can lower the temperature and cause steaming rather than searing.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy!
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 (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time, so you can have it ready in just about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with a pinch of salt and pepper. This simple step will add tons of flavor to your chicken!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. When done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn! Then, pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to get all those tasty browned bits.
4. Add Cream and Cheese:
Next, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning (if using). Let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. You’ll love how creamy it becomes!
5. Combine and Finish:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure they are well-coated in the creamy garlic sauce. Let everything heat together for about 2 minutes so the chicken can soak up some sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top to add a nice pop of color. This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. Dig in and enjoy your delicious creamy garlic chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra flavor and moisture to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through—around 6-8 minutes per side should work well.
How Can I Thicken the Sauce More?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce during the simmering step, and let it cook for an additional minute or two until thickened to your liking.
What Are Good Side Dishes to Serve with This Chicken?
This creamy garlic chicken pairs well with a variety of sides! Popular options include steamed broccoli, garlic bread, or a simple salad. You can also serve it over pasta or rice to soak up that delicious creamy sauce.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
