This Creamy Chicken Gloria is like a warm hug in a dish! Juicy chicken is cooked in a lovely garlic and cheese sauce that makes every bite super tasty.
Honestly, I could drink that creamy sauce it’s so good! I love serving it over rice or pasta, so the flavors really shine. It’s comfort food made easy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you need a substitute, boneless thighs work well too, bringing a slightly richer flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is the hero here! If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder, but fresh truly gives the best taste.
Dairy: Heavy cream adds richness. For a lighter version, half-and-half can be used, but the sauce may not be as thick and creamy. Non-dairy alternatives like coconut cream are also options if you’re lactose-free.
Cheese: I love using mozzarella for that gooey melty texture. If mozzarella isn’t available, you could try provolone or even a blend. Parmesan adds sharpness; Pecorino Romano can be a nice substitute.
Italian Seasoning: You can create your own using equal parts of dried basil, oregano, and thyme if you don’t have a mix on hand. Fresh herbs are also an excellent alternative!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken just right is key to a great dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by seasoning your chicken well with salt and pepper for flavor.
- Cook in a hot skillet to get that nice golden color, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest after cooking. This keeps it juicy! Cover it with foil while you make the sauce.
This technique helps avoid dry chicken, ensuring it’s juicy and flavorful in the rich sauce!
Creamy Chicken Gloria with Garlic and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. It’s a quick yet indulgent meal, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper all over. This will add a nice flavor to your chicken. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken breasts and cook them for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked all the way through. Once done, take them out of the skillet and set aside on a plate.
2. Making the Garlic Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Allow it to melt, and then add in the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about a minute until it becomes fragrant but be careful not to burn it!
3. Creating the Creamy Base:
Next, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom. Then, stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Adding the Cheeses:
Gradually mix in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring well until everything is melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. It should look absolutely delicious!
5. Bringing It All Together:
Now, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure to spoon that rich, cheesy sauce over them. Let it all cook together for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the chicken to warm up and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is well combined and heated through, garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve your creamy Chicken Gloria hot over your favorite cooked pasta, rice, or alongside steamed veggies. Enjoy every bite!
Now, dig in and savor the creamy, garlicky deliciousness of your Chicken Gloria!
FAQ for Creamy Chicken Gloria
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute and can add extra flavor and juiciness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten things up, you can use skinless chicken breasts, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative, and opt for less cheese. You’ll still have a delicious sauce but with fewer calories!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken a day ahead. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving. If you’re cooking pasta or rice, make those fresh at serving time to keep them from becoming overcooked.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
