This Creamy Chicken Gloria is a warm, inviting dish that combines juicy chicken with a rich, creamy sauce. It’s quick to make, making it perfect for busy dinners!
My favorite part? It pairs wonderfully with rice or pasta, soaking up all that delicious sauce. No one leaves the table hungry, and trust me, that’s a win! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you want to mix it up, you can use thighs for extra flavor or even turkey breast if you have it.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a rich, tangy flavor. If you don’t have them, you can use fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers as a substitute. Just chop them up and add them to the sauce.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy milk with a thickener if you’re looking for lighter or dairy-free options, but the texture may change a little.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a lovely umami flavor. If you’re out, try Pecorino Romano or even a vegan parmesan for a dairy-free alternative.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but here’s how to keep it moist and delicious:
- Start with chicken at room temperature. Take it out of the fridge about 15-20 minutes before cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed. This ensures even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken is perfectly done at 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This keeps the juices in!
With these tips and substitutions, you can make Creamy Chicken Gloria your own. Enjoy your cooking!
Creamy Chicken Gloria
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick total of about 30 minutes to prepare on a busy evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté Garlic and Vegetables:
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and baby spinach to the skillet. Cook everything together until the spinach is wilted.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Combine Chicken with Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, and spoon the creamy sauce over them. Let the chicken warm in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Before serving, garnish the dish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a lovely touch. This delicious creamy chicken pairs well with rice, pasta, or crusty bread. Enjoy! 😊
FAQ for Creamy Chicken Gloria
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work well in this recipe and can add extra flavor and juiciness. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour to thicken it. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or a non-dairy milk with a thickener, though the texture might vary a bit.
How Do I Store Leftover Creamy Chicken Gloria?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave until heated through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Dish?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the cream and broth to ensure they cook properly.
