This Melt-In-Your-Mouth Chicken Breast is super tender and juicy! It’s simple to make and packed with flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more.
You won’t believe how easy it is to have such delicious chicken for dinner. I love serving it with a side of veggies for a yummy meal that’s also good for you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you’re looking for substitutes, you could use chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Chicken Broth: Low sodium chicken broth helps control the saltiness of the dish. If you don’t have it, vegetable broth works just as well. Homemade broth adds a nice touch if you have it on hand.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce a rich texture. If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Italian Seasoning: The mix of herbs adds great flavor! If you don’t have it, a combination of dried oregano and thyme can be a perfect substitute. Fresh herbs can elevate the taste even more!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked and Tender?
One key to tender chicken breasts is ensuring they cook evenly. Start by pounding them to uniform thickness. This prevents one side from cooking faster than the other.
- Heat your skillet and allow it to reach the right temperature before adding the oil. This helps in achieving that golden brown color.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan. If you’re cooking multiple breasts, do it in batches to maintain even cooking.
- Always let the chicken rest after cooking. This keeps the juices locked in!
How to Make Melt-In-Your-Mouth Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, thyme, and basil)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 15-20 minutes for cooking, making the total time about 30-35 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This step is important for ensuring that the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy!
2. Season the Chicken:
Season both sides of your chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Don’t be shy—this is what gives your chicken its yummy flavor!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
4. Make the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Let it melt, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
5. Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth, and take a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pan, releasing any tasty bits stuck there (that’s where a lot of flavor comes from!).
6. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream and allow the sauce to simmer for about 2-3 minutes. You want it to thicken slightly during this time.
7. Cook the Chicken:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some of that delicious sauce over them, then cover the pan. Let it simmer on low heat for 8-10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and super tender!
8. Let it Rest:
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This resting period helps keep the juices inside the chicken!
9. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some fresh, chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Then, serve the chicken on plates and generously spoon the creamy sauce over them. Yum!
10. Enjoy:
Serve your Melt-In-Your-Mouth Chicken Breast warm with your favorite side dishes like steamed veggies or mashed potatoes! Enjoy every bite of this delicious, juicy dish!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s crucial to thaw it completely beforehand. The best way to do this is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight or use the quick-thaw method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour before cooking.
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 whole milk. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut milk or almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of cornstarch to help thicken the sauce.
How to Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help keep the chicken moist during reheating!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to the skillet after sautéing the garlic. Cook them until tender before adding the broth and heavy cream for a delicious, nutritious addition!
