Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly.
- Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Return the Chicken: Add the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the creamy garlic sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to reheat and absorb the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve your Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Chicken Thighs Option: You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option. Adjust cooking time as needed.
- Thicker Sauce: For a thicker sauce, let the sauce simmer a bit longer, or add a slurry made from 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water.
- Extra Flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little brightness or heat.
Conclusion
This Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a comforting, delicious meal that’s both rich and easy to make. The combination of tender chicken and indulgent garlic cream sauce is sure to become a family favorite. Pair it with your favorite side dish, and enjoy the flavorful and satisfying experience!