This Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken is a quick and tasty dish that you’ll love! It features tender chicken cooked in a rich and zesty garlic sauce that makes every bite a delight.
Honestly, who can resist that creamy goodness? It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Just toss it together, and you’re set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are tender and cook quickly. You can use thighs for more flavor or even tofu for a plant-based option.
Heavy Cream: This is what gives the dish its creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or even coconut milk can work, though they may alter the taste a bit.
Garlic: Fresh garlic offers the best flavor, but you can substitute with garlic powder in a pinch—use about 1 teaspoon if you don’t have fresh. Fresh is always my go-to!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a delicious, nutty flavor. If you’re dairy-free, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or try vegan cream cheese to keep it creamy.
Italian Seasoning: This blend is convenient, but feel free to use fresh herbs or just add basil and oregano—fresh herbs brighten things up!
How Do I Get the Perfect Pan Sauce?
Making a great pan sauce is about pulling the flavors from the skillet. Here’s how to do it:
- After cooking the chicken, keep the heat on medium. Add minced garlic to the leftover oil and cook it briefly—watch it closely!
- Deglaze the pan by adding chicken broth, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom.
- When you add cream and other ingredients, stir well to combine and let it cook until slightly thickened.
This process builds depth in flavor and makes your creamy garlic sauce irresistible. Enjoy the cooking process!
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 (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a creamy, flavorful meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This enhances the flavor of the chicken itself.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked 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 slightly and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it can become bitter!
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. These bits hold a lot of flavor, so be sure to get them all!
5. Make the Cream Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’d like a little heat. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly—this makes for a delicious creamy texture.
6. Combine Chicken with Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Make sure to coat each piece with the creamy garlic sauce. Let everything simmer together for about 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Pair this meal with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying dinner!
Enjoy your Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking. To thaw quickly, place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat it dry with paper towels before seasoning.
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 even a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of cornstarch for thickening. For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the sauce thickens too much as it cools, add a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating to loosen it up.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes can enhance both flavor and nutrition. Add them to the skillet after the garlic but before the cream for best results, allowing them to cook until tender before proceeding with the sauce.
