- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. If the breasts are thick, you can butterfly them or pound them to an even thickness for more even cooking.
- Brown the Chicken:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the broth to simmer and reduce by half.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and dried Italian herbs. If using, add the red pepper flakes now. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until it starts to thicken. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat. Cook for another 2-3 minutes on low heat, allowing the chicken to soak up some of the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top for a fresh color contrast and additional flavor. Serve the creamy garlic chicken hot, with your choice of side.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pasta: Serve over cooked pasta, such as fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti, to soak up the delicious cream sauce.
- Rice: A bed of fluffy white or brown rice makes an excellent accompaniment, absorbing the sauce and complementing the chicken.
- Vegetables: Steamed or roasted vegetables, like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans, balance the richness of the dish.
- Bread: Crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce, ensuring not a drop goes to waste.
This creamy garlic chicken is sure to become a favorite for its comforting taste and ease of preparation. It’s a versatile dish that can be dressed up for guests or served as a weeknight dinner, satisfying cravings for something warm, creamy, and full of flavor.