This Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken is a winner for dinner! Tender chicken cooked in a smooth garlic sauce makes it a perfect cozy meal.
Honestly, who can resist creamy garlic goodness? I love serving it over rice or pasta, and my family always goes back for seconds. It’s that good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and stay juicy. If you’re looking for substitutions, thighs can work well too, giving a richer flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings amazing flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but fresh is always best! I love using lots of minced garlic for that punchy taste.
Heavy Cream: This is what gives the dish its creaminess. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half or even a plant-based alternative like coconut cream, though it will change the flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice cheesy depth. Feel free to swap with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
How Do I Make the Sauce Really Creamy?
The key to a creamy sauce lies in slowly simmering the heavy cream after you add it to the skillet. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Once you’ve sautéed the garlic, lower the heat before adding the cream. This prevents it from boiling and curdling.
- Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese while continuously whisking. This helps it to melt smoothly.
- Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens. You want it to coat the back of a spoon nicely!
Keep an eye on the heat; too high and you risk splitting the cream. Enjoy your creamy garlic chicken adventure!
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 chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, totaling about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika. Don’t skip this step—seasoning the chicken boosts the flavor!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through. After that, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until you can smell the wonderful garlic aroma. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Add Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and make sure to scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. This is where a lot of flavor comes from! Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat further and stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Keep stirring until everything is well mixed and the sauce starts to thicken a bit, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
6. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
Now, it’s time to bring back the chicken! Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, and spoon some of that delicious sauce over the top. Let it cook for another 2 minutes so the chicken warms up and absorbs some of that yummy garlic cream sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your creamy garlic chicken hot over rice, pasta, or alongside some steamed veggies. Enjoy every bite of this delicious dish!
Happy cooking! If you like this recipe, feel free to share it with friends and family!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are just as delicious and will give a richer flavor to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a little longer to cook through compared to breasts.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may not be as thick and creamy. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream or a non-dairy heavy cream substitute!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes! Feel free to add some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the dish while making the sauce. This not only enhances the flavor but also packs in some extra nutrition!
