- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 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 sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- 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, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until it begins to thicken.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for another 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the chicken and sauce before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or over a bed of pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips for Success:
- Chicken Preparation: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning and cooking.
- Garlic: Adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste preference. For a milder garlic flavor, reduce the number of cloves.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a little more chicken broth or cream. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few additional minutes to reduce further.
- Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain its juices, ensuring the meat is tender and flavorful.
This Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a delicious homemade meal, this recipe promises to deliver on flavor and satisfaction. Enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!