This creamy herb chicken is packed with flavor from garlic and parmesan. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Yum!
Whenever I make this, I feel like a gourmet chef. The sauce is so rich and tasty, it’s hard not to lick the plate clean! Serve it with some pasta for an extra treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you don’t have chicken breasts, you can use thighs or even turkey cutlets.
Heavy Cream: The cream is what makes this dish rich and creamy. However, if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a little cornstarch to thicken it up.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a wonderful cheesy flavor. If you don’t have parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano, which can be more affordable and still offer great taste.
Dried Italian Herbs: While dried herbs are convenient, using fresh herbs will provide a brighter flavor. If you have fresh basil, oregano, or thyme, I’d recommend using those in the same amount.
How Do I Avoid Burning the Garlic?
Garlic adds amazing flavor, but it cooks quickly and can burn easily. Here’s how to handle it safely:
- Always keep your heat at medium when sautéing garlic.
- Add garlic after you’ve browned the chicken and removed it from the pan, so it has many fats to help it cook nicely.
- Keep stirring the garlic continuously for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until it smells fragrant. If it starts to brown, take it off the heat immediately!
By following these tips and using the right substitutions, you’ll have a delicious creamy herb chicken that everyone will love!
Creamy Herb Chicken with Garlic and Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, to thin the sauce if needed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and seasoning the chicken, and another 20 minutes cooking everything to delicious perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This helps enhance the flavor of the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). 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 to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and stir well to deglaze the pan, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, chopped parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like some extra heat. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Adjust the Sauce Consistency:
If the sauce is too thick for your liking, you can add chicken broth a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well!
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce generously over the chicken and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through and let the flavors meld together.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with extra parsley if desired. Serve the chicken hot and enjoy it with your favorite sides like pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up that incredible sauce!
Bon Appétit!
FAQ for Creamy Herb Chicken with Garlic and Parmesan
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe and tend to be juicier. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer than breasts to cook through. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cornstarch. For a dairy-free option, substitute with coconut cream or a non-dairy milk with a bit of thickener, like flour or cornstarch.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to refresh the sauce.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze the creamy herb chicken! Allow it to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently in a skillet or microwave.
