Next, I remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside while I prepare the creamy sauce. In that same skillet, I add a little more olive oil if needed, then throw in the minced garlic, sautéing it for about a minute until it’s fragrant. After that, I pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any little bits of goodness stuck to the bottom of the pan. Those bits are flavor gold! Once the broth is simmering, I lower the heat and stir in the cottage cheese and grated Parmesan, allowing it to melt and create a beautifully creamy sauce. The colors start to blend together, and the aroma is simply divine.
Now it’s time to bring the chicken back into the mix! I add it back into the skillet and stir until each piece is coated in that creamy goodness. I season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, letting it simmer for a couple of minutes to soak up all those delicious flavors. At this point, I can hardly contain my excitement — it looks beautiful and smells even better!
Finally, I garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving. It’s bright green and aromatic, and who doesn’t love a pretty dish? I usually serve this creamy chicken over rice or pasta to soak up all that wonderful sauce, but enjoy it however you like! We’re ready to dig in and enjoy a comforting meal!
Pro Tips for Best Results
During my recipe trials, I tested this out using different types of cheese, and I found that mixing in a bit of cream cheese gives it an extra creamy texture. If you want a cheesier sauce, I recommend adding a touch more Parmesan — it just intensifies the flavor! I also tried adding veggies like spinach and sundried tomatoes, and let me tell you, they were fantastic additions!
Another important tip is to make sure you don’t overcook the chicken. The goal is to sear it until golden; the additional cooking in the sauce will ensure it stays juicy. I learned the hard way that chicken can turn dry very quickly, so I monitor the cooking time closely.
Lastly, don’t shy away from seasoning. I used my go-to Italian seasoning, but herbs like thyme or basil also work beautifully. A dash of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if you enjoy some spice! It’s all about customizing it to your tastes, and you’ll end up with a dish that’s just perfect for you!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I made on my first try was not letting the skillet get hot enough before adding the chicken. This resulted in steaming instead of searing, which made it less flavorful. Now, I always preheat the skillet to ensure those lovely browning flavors develop on the chicken. (See the next page below to continue…)