Description
This creamy garlic chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked to perfection in a rich and velvety garlic Parmesan sauce. The sauce combines heavy cream, chicken broth, and Italian herbs for a flavorful and comforting meal that’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Make the Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the broth simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the Cream and Parmesan: Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. If the sauce gets too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
- Finish the Dish: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some of the sauce over them, and simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through and absorb some of the flavors. If you want an extra creamy texture, add 1 tablespoon of butter to the sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with your favorite side, such as pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are of even thickness to cook evenly; pounding them gently if needed can help.
- Use fresh garlic for best flavor, but garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less thick and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving, as Parmesan can add saltiness.
- The sauce can be made thicker by simmering longer or adding a small slurry of cornstarch mixed with water.
