This Creamy Chicken Gloria is a cozy dish that’s perfect for easy family dinners. It features tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with mushrooms and spices.
I love how simple it is to whip up! Just cook the chicken, add the sauce, and let it simmer. Serve it over rice or pasta, and everyone’s happy—easy peasy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts match well with this creamy sauce. You might substitute with thighs for extra juiciness or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add great texture and flavor. If you don’t have them, canned mushrooms or even spinach can work in a pinch.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, swap with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free choice. Keep in mind that it might alter the flavor a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a lovely richness. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano is similar, or any hard cheese will do.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Chicken for this Dish?
Cooking the chicken right is essential to this dish. Here’s how to ensure it turns out perfectly:
- Start with room temperature chicken for even cooking.
- Season well with salt, pepper, and paprika for flavor.
- Heat your skillet until medium-high; the oil or butter should shimmer.
- Cook each side for 5-7 minutes until golden brown, adjusting heat as needed to prevent burning.
- Let it rest once cooked; this keeps it juicy before adding it to the sauce.
Simple and Delicious Creamy Chicken Gloria
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the chicken, then another 20 minutes simmering the sauce and bringing it all together. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
First, season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and if you like, a sprinkle of paprika for a touch of flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Next, heat your olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook them for about 5–7 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until they soften up. Then, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook everything together while stirring occasionally for about 5–6 minutes until the mushrooms become nice and tender.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now it’s time to deglaze the pan! Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Give it a taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3–5 minutes until it thickens a bit.
5. Combine and Serve:
Finally, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over them. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors together. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
6. Enjoy:
Your creamy chicken Gloria is ready! Serve it hot over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread for a delightful meal.
Enjoy your easy and delicious creamy chicken dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first. Thaw chicken overnight in the refrigerator or use the cold water method by submerging it in a sealed plastic bag. Ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results!
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half for a lighter version, or opt for coconut milk if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative. Just note that the flavor and texture may change slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stove or microwave until heated through. You might want to add a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce!
What’s the Best Way to Serve Creamy Chicken Gloria?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or pasta, which helps soak up the creamy sauce. If you want a healthier option, consider serving it alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad!
