This Creamy Chicken Gloria is a warm hug in a bowl! Juicy chicken breasts are bathed in a rich and creamy sauce, packed with garlic and lovely herbs for that extra kick.
Honestly, this dish is a winner at my dinner table. It’s so simple to whip up that I often make it on busy weeknights. Pair it with rice or noodles, and you’re all set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use chicken thighs, which will be juicier, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Olive Oil: It provides a wonderful base for cooking. If you’re out, you can substitute with canola oil or even butter for added flavor.
Heavy Cream: This creates the creamy texture in the sauce. If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream like coconut cream, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic makes this dish so aromatic. You can replace it with garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh is always best for flavor.
Herbs: Dried herbs work fine, but if possible, use fresh herbs. They add brightness and depth of flavor. For a twist, try adding some fresh basil or rosemary instead of parsley.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but it’s all about following a few simple steps. First, make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps to seal in the juices!
- Season your chicken generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side. It’s helpful to use a meat thermometer – the chicken is done at 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps it stay juicy when you slice into it.
Creamy Chicken Gloria with Garlic and Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes seasoning and cooking the chicken, then another 15 minutes preparing the sauce and garnishing the dish. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This will add flavor to the meat and create a delicious crust when cooked.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring often, until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt. Be careful, as burnt garlic can taste bitter!
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to deglaze the pan and lift any tasty browned bits. This adds wonderful flavor to the sauce.
5. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
Next, stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, dried parsley, oregano, and Parmesan cheese if you’re using it. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce slightly thickens.
6. Add the Chicken Back:
Stir in the butter until it melts. Then, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over them. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure the chicken is heated through.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme sprigs to add a pop of color and freshness. Serve this creamy chicken warm alongside rice, pasta, or some crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time, as thighs may need a few extra minutes to cook through.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy creamer like coconut milk. Keep in mind that substituting may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce on the stove over low heat to prevent it from becoming too thick. Stir occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Simply cook the chicken fresh when you’re ready to serve and combine it with the sauce right before enjoying. This will ensure the chicken remains juicy and flavorful!
