Description

This Cheesy Garlic Chicken is an easy, comforting dish featuring tender, juicy chicken smothered in a garlic-infused creamy cheese sauce. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, pairs well with pasta, rice, or veggies, and is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Cheesy Garlic Sauce:

4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
½ cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.

2. Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Sauce:

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir and simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Add the Cheese & Chicken:

Lower the heat and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and creamy. Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce over the top. Cover and cook for 5 more minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

5. Garnish & Serve:

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm over pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables

Notes

Use boneless chicken thighs for an even juicier result.
Make it extra creamy by stirring in 2 tablespoons of cream cheese.
Swap mozzarella for cheddar or provolone for a different cheesy flavor.
For a crispy baked version, transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for 2-3 minutes.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: ~450 kcal per serving