If you’ve ever dreamed of a dish that marries creamy, cheesy goodness with tender, flavorful chicken, this Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. With golden seared chicken breasts bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, enriched by mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, every bite bursts with rich, comforting flavors that feel downright indulgent yet surprisingly simple to create. This recipe effortlessly transforms everyday ingredients into a dinner-worthy masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a vital role in balancing flavors and creating the perfect texture. From the fresh garlic and herbs that bring brightness to the dish, to the creamy cheeses that provide melty richness, every element matters.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing juicy, tender protein.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to sear the chicken to a golden perfection and adds a mild fruitiness.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Adds richness and depth to the garlic butter sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with bold, aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme): Offers a subtle earthy note that complements the garlic.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh parsley): Brightens the dish with a touch of herbal freshness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the velvety base for the sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds savory umami balance to the creaminess.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly to give that signature cheesy stretch.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty complexity to the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning every layer of flavor properly.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add the chicken. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, allowing a golden crust to form and the meat to cook through. This step ensures your chicken stays juicy on the inside while developing a savory exterior. Remove the chicken and set it aside to rest, which helps keep it tender.
Step 2: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, thyme, and parsley, stirring frequently. The fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen at this point is the hallmark of a great Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe taking shape. Let the garlic soften but not brown to avoid bitterness—about 1 to 2 minutes will do.
Step 3: Incorporate Cream and Broth
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine everything evenly. Bring the liquid to a simmer and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. This creamy base is what coats each piece of chicken in luxurious flavor. Season lightly with salt and pepper here—remember, you can adjust later.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Turn the heat down to medium-low and gradually stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheeses melt fully and the sauce looks silky smooth. This step is the heart of the Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe, turning a simple cream sauce into a decadent, cheesy dream.
Step 5: Return the Chicken and Finish Cooking
Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the rich cheese sauce over the top. If you’re feeling extra cheesy, sprinkle some additional mozzarella on top. Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently for another 2 to 3 minutes. This final step melds the flavors beautifully and ensures the chicken reheats without drying out while the cheese melts perfectly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sauce is bubbly and the chicken is fully coated, your Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe is ready to dazzle your taste buds. Garnish as you like and prepare for a satisfying meal!
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a bright pop of color and a mild herbal finish that cuts through the richness of the sauce elegantly. If you want to get creative, a few chili flakes can add a subtle kick that pairs wonderfully with the creamy base.
Side Dishes
This dish shines when paired with simple sides. Steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli bring a fresh contrast, while buttery mashed potatoes or fluffy rice soak up every drop of sauce. For something heartier, serve over buttery garlic pasta to double down on those comforting flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress your guests by plating each chicken breast over a bed of creamy polenta or risotto, drizzling extra garlic butter sauce on top. Alternatively, slice the chicken and fan it out on a platter for an elegant family-style presentation. This Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe is as versatile as it is delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, which makes it perfect for quick lunches or reheated dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw slowly in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at a reduced power setting to prevent the sauce from separating. Stir occasionally to keep the sauce creamy and the chicken moist.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor due to their higher fat content. Just adjust cooking time as needed since thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting the butter with a dairy-free margarine and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor, but the texture will be different.
What type of garlic works best in this recipe?
Fresh garlic cloves are ideal since they deliver the most vibrant aroma and flavor. Avoid pre-minced garlic in oil for this recipe as it can overpower the delicate sauce.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce a day in advance, then combine and reheat just before serving. This helps meld the flavors and saves time on busy nights.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, simmer it for a few extra minutes before adding the cheese or mix in a small slurry of cornstarch and water gradually while stirring.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe is truly one of those dishes where comfort meets elegance effortlessly in your own kitchen. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends, it’s guaranteed to become a cherished favorite. Go ahead, give it a try and let yourself savor every gooey, buttery bite.
Print
Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked in a rich and creamy garlic butter sauce infused with herbs and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a comforting and delicious dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh parsley)
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, thyme, and parsley, cooking for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Add Cream and Broth: Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the Cheese: Reduce heat to medium-low and gradually stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheeses fully melt and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy garlic butter sauce over each piece. Optionally sprinkle extra cheese on top, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 2-3 more minutes to melt the cheese and heat the chicken through.
- Serve: Garnish with additional parsley if desired. Serve the cheesy garlic butter chicken hot over pasta, rice, or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- You can substitute fresh herbs for dried for a brighter flavor, adjusting quantities accordingly.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently to preserve sauce quality.
- For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though sauce richness will decrease.
- Serving suggestions include buttery mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up extra sauce.
