One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts is the epitome of comfort food that combines savory flavors with a creamy sauce, all made in just one pan for easy cleanup. Tender chicken breasts are beautifully seared to golden perfection and then simmered in a luscious garlic cream sauce that’s both rich and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish promises to impress with its delightful aromas and mouthwatering taste.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will undoubtedly fall in love with this recipe for its incredible flavor and simplicity. The combination of garlic, cream, and herbs creates a rich sauce that enhances the natural juiciness of the chicken. Plus, cooking everything in one pan means less hassle and less cleanup, making it perfect for those who are short on time but still want a gourmet meal. This recipe is a great fit for anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, allowing you to indulge without compromising your diet.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Bone-In Chicken Breasts: For even more flavor, consider using bone-in chicken breasts. They tend to remain juicier and more flavorful during cooking.
- Let the Chicken Rest: Always allow your chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This helps retain its juices and keeps it moist.
- Experiment with Herbs: While this recipe calls for basic herbs like parsley, feel free to mix in thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
- Adjust the Cream: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for part of the heavy cream.
Make Ahead Tips
To make the cooking process even easier, you can marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of garlic, olive oil, and herbs for up to 24 hours in advance. The chicken will absorb the flavors and be even more delicious when cooked. You can also prepare the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently before combining it with the chicken.
Recipe Variations
- Mushroom Addition: Sauté some mushrooms in the pan before adding the cream for an earthy flavor boost.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the garlic sauce for some heat.
- Different Proteins: Swap out chicken for shrimp or turkey cutlets for a refreshing take on the dish.
How to Serve
Serve your One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts over a bed of fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an elegant touch. Present the dish in the skillet for a rustic look or plate it with a side of steamed vegetables for a colorful and appealing meal.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this creamy chicken dish with a glass of Chardonnay or a light-bodied Pinot Noir to complement the richness of the sauce. For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, serve with sparkling water infused with lemon. On the side, consider a fresh garden salad or roasted asparagus to round out the meal.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container, where it will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Equipment Needed
- A large skillet or sauté pan is essential for this dish. If you don’t have a non-stick pan, a cast-iron skillet or stainless-steel pan will work just as well.
- A meat thermometer can help ensure that your chicken is perfectly cooked.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream blend. For a gluten-free option, ensure that any added ingredients like stock or broth are certified gluten-free. If you’re vegetarian, use hearty plant-based protein alternatives like tofu or tempeh, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring, consider adding fresh asparagus or peas to the creamy sauce for a seasonal touch. In the fall, mushrooms and spinach can provide a cozy, earthy flavor profile. During summer, fresh basil or parsley can brighten the dish, while in winter, a touch of nutmeg can add warmth.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Thighs will add more flavor and moisture to the dish.
- Can I make this in advance? Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time.
- What if I don’t have heavy cream? You can substitute it with a mixture of milk and butter, or use half-and-half for a lighter version.
How To Make One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts
One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts
One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts is the epitome of comfort food that combines savory flavors with a creamy sauce, all made in just one pan for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Carefully pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Stir in dried thyme and parsley, and season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and let it thicken for about 3-5 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 436Total Fat 29gSaturated Fat 15gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 169mgSodium 181mgCarbohydrates 3gFiber 0gSugar 2gProtein 39g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts is not just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience that combines simplicity with gourmet flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. With its ease of preparation and the ability to customize it to your taste, it’s a meal you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. Happy cooking!