This creamy herb chicken is rich and flavorful, bringing together tender chicken with a sauce made from garlic and parmesan. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Trust me, once you smell that garlic sizzling, you’ll be counting down the minutes until you can dive in. I love serving it with rice or pasta to soak up all that delicious sauce!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier result. Tofu or tempeh can also be great substitutes for a vegetarian version.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich texture. If you’re watching calories, consider using half-and-half or a plant-based alternative, like coconut cream, for a dairy-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan offers the best flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano or a sharp cheddar can work, but you may want to adjust the salt since they vary in saltiness.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth. If you don’t have fresh garlic, use garlic powder (1/8 teaspoon equals about one clove). Just remember, fresh will always shine in flavor!
How Do I Get Chicken Breasts Perfectly Cooked?
Getting chicken breasts tender and juicy can sometimes be tricky. Here’s how to nail it:
- Always start with a pre-heated skillet. This helps to sear the chicken instead of steaming it.
- Cook on medium-high heat to get a nice golden crust. This usually takes about 6-7 minutes on each side—perfect for 1-inch thick breasts.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F/74°C). If you don’t have one, slice into the thickest part to ensure there’s no pink.
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking before slicing. This keeps it moist and delicious!
By following these tips, your creamy herb chicken will be a hit every time!
How to Make Creamy Herb Chicken with Garlic and Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, for thinning the sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy herb chicken will take about 30 minutes to make. You will spend around 10 minutes on preparation (seasoning the chicken and chopping garlic), and about 20 minutes on cooking the chicken and making the sauce. It’s quick, easy, and so rewarding!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This gives them a great flavor base!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked through (check for an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm on a plate.
3. Sautéing the Garlic:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, stirring until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic can taste bitter!
4. Creating the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and give it a good stir, making sure to scrape any delicious browned bits off the bottom of the pan. This adds flavor to your sauce!
5. Adding the Flavor:
Now, add the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, thyme, basil (if using), and Italian seasoning into the cream. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the sauce begins to thicken—this should take about 3-5 minutes.
6. Adjusting the Sauce:
If you find that the sauce is too thick for your liking, gradually add chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. It should be creamy but pourable.
7. Combining Everything:
Return the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet. Spoon some of that delicious sauce over the chicken and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. This will help the chicken absorb all the flavors.
8. Serving:
Garnish with additional fresh herbs if you’d like, and serve your creamy herb chicken immediately! It’s perfect alongside pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Enjoy the creamy, garlicky, parmesan-herbed goodness! Your taste buds are in for a treat!
FAQ for Creamy Herb Chicken with Garlic and Parmesan
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add more flavor to the dish. Just ensure they are cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour to help thicken. For dairy-free options, coconut cream works well but may add a slight coconut flavor.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave to prevent the chicken from drying out.
What Should I Serve This Chicken With?
This creamy chicken pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even a simple green salad. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a complete meal!
