This Creamy Chicken Gloria is a tasty dish with tender chicken, rich cream, and fresh garlic and herbs. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up. I often serve it over rice or pasta, and it always gets a thumbs up from family and friends. Who can resist creamy goodness? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is perfect for this dish, as it cooks quickly and stays tender. You can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor; they hold moisture better.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a bold flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder (1/8 teaspoon per clove) in a pinch, but fresh is preferred for its punch.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary add wonderful taste. If you have Italian seasoning, it can replace these herbs. For a fresh touch, use basil or parsley instead.
Heavy Cream: This is key for creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream like coconut milk, which adds a subtle flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds richness and depth. Grana Padano is a good swap if Parmesan isn’t available, or you could use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Cook Chicken That’s Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking juicy chicken is all about timing and temperature. Here’s how to ensure your chicken stays tender:
- Season Well: Don’t skip seasoning with salt and pepper! This enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook until the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check, or cut into the thickest part to ensure there’s no pink.
- Resting Time: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This lets the juices redistribute, keeping it moist.
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time! Enjoy your Creamy Chicken Gloria with a tasty side for a wonderful meal.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Gloria with Garlic and Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes preparing and cooking the chicken, and about 15 minutes making the sauce and letting all the flavors blend together. It’s a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and black pepper. You want to make sure they’re flavorful right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium in the same skillet, and add the butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
4. Add the Herbs:
Mix in the thyme and rosemary, stirring it together nicely with the garlic. The aroma will be fantastic!
5. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This will add extra flavor. Let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in Cream and Cheese:
Add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring until fully combined. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, carefully spoon the creamy sauce over them, and let everything simmer together for another 3-4 minutes. This allows the chicken to soak in the delicious flavors!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top as a lovely garnish. Serve your Creamy Chicken Gloria with rice, pasta, or some crusty bread to soak up all that amazing sauce. Enjoy your delightful meal!
FAQ for Creamy Chicken Gloria
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The safest way is to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can place the sealed chicken in a bowl of cold water for a couple of hours. Make sure to pat it dry with paper towels before seasoning.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can work, but the sauce may be less creamy. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream or cashew cream, which adds a unique flavor without compromising the creaminess!
Can I Make this Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in the sauce over low heat until warmed through. You might need to add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
What are Some Side Dishes to Serve with Creamy Chicken Gloria?
This dish pairs wonderfully with lots of sides! Consider serving it over pasta, rice, or quinoa. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or garlic bread for a more rounded meal.
