This creamy herb chicken is a cozy dish with tender chicken, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The creamy sauce hugs each bite and makes it super tasty!
Honestly, this dish is a winner for dinner. I love pairing it with rice or pasta to soak up that delicious sauce. Who doesn’t love a tasty meal that feels like a warm hug? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for a tender result. You can swap them out for chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat or want something juicier.
Olive Oil: This adds great flavor, but you can use any cooking oil like vegetable or canola oil if needed. Avocado oil is another healthy option.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Just be aware the consistency and taste will change a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated gives the best flavor, but in a pinch, you can use the pre-grated stuff. Nutritional yeast can also be a great dairy-free substitute.
Herbs: Dried Italian herbs are convenient, but feel free to use fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Fresh basil or thyme will elevate the dish!
How Do You Cook Chicken Perfectly in a Skillet?
Cooking chicken in a skillet can yield a deliciously golden crust if done right! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet. Heat the olive oil and butter until it shimmers.
- Don’t crowd the skillet! Give each chicken breast enough space to brown without steaming.
- Cook over medium-high heat for about 5-6 minutes on each side. It helps to flip only once for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer. Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s perfectly done.
This technique will give you juicy chicken with a flavorful exterior that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce!
Creamy Herb Chicken with Garlic and Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried thyme, oregano, and basil)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and 15-20 minutes for cooking, making a total of about 30-35 minutes to enjoy a wonderful meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and half of the dried Italian herbs. This will add flavor to the meat.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can check if they’re done by cutting into one—make sure there’s no pink inside. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute or until the garlic is fragrant—don’t let it burn! Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese along with the remaining Italian herbs. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly during this time.
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken and let it heat through for another 2 minutes so they soak up all that delicious flavor!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your creamy herb chicken with chopped fresh parsley if you like. Serve it hot with a side of pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables to soak up the extra sauce. Enjoy your meal!
So simple and delicious, this creamy herb chicken is sure to be a favorite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the quick method by placing the sealed chicken in cold water for about an hour. Pat it dry before seasoning for the best results!
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 little flour for thickness. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream works well, though it will add a slight coconut flavor to the dish.
How Do I Store Leftover Creamy Herb Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce if it thickens too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can sauté some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers along with the garlic for added flavor and nutrition. Just cook them until tender before adding the cream and cheese to the sauce.
