Description
A delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich and flavorful creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe is both simple and indulgent.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 8 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure both sides are well coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they develop a beautiful golden-brown color and are fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Make the Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, just until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden—be careful not to burn it.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the broth to simmer for about 5 minutes, reducing slightly to concentrate the flavors.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to simmer the sauce for another 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken. You should end up with a rich, creamy consistency.
- Return the Chicken: Add the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top of the chicken. Let the chicken cook in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring it’s fully heated through and well-coated with the creamy garlic mixture.
- Garnish and Serve: Once ready, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the chicken with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately, pairing with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Cooking the breasts for around 5-6 minutes on each side should be sufficient, but use a meat thermometer if unsure. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- You can add mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for added texture and flavor.