If you are craving the ultimate comfort food that combines rich flavors with creamy textures, then this Ooey Gooey Cheesy Garlic Chicken is an absolute must-try. This dish boasts tender chicken breasts bathed in a heavenly garlic-infused cheese sauce that melts into every bite. The perfect harmony of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses with a touch of Italian seasoning elevates a simple skillet meal into a soul-warming experience you’ll want to repeat again and again. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet indulgent enough to impress anyone lucky to share your table.

Ooey Gooey Cheesy Garlic Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this irresistible Ooey Gooey Cheesy Garlic Chicken. Each element plays a key role, whether it’s adding creaminess, flavor complexity, or that satisfying golden crust.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking and juicy tenderness.
4 cloves fresh garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is crucial for that punchy, aromatic base flavor.
1 cup heavy cream: This makes the sauce silky smooth and decadently rich.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella brings luscious meltability and stretchiness to the dish.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar adds sharpness and vibrant color to the gooey coating.
2 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that adds warmth and depth.
3 tbsp butter: Butter helps create a perfectly browned crust on the chicken and rounds out the sauce.
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the sauce balanced and moist without overpowering richness.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for perfectly seasoning every element.

How to Make Ooey Gooey Cheesy Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Start by gently patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This simple step is a game-changer because it helps the chicken achieve that irresistible golden crust. Season them generously with salt and pepper for balanced, flavorful meat.

Step 2: Searing to Perfection

Heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter. Carefully add your chicken breasts and sear them for about six minutes on each side. This process locks in the juices while creating a gorgeous, golden exterior. Cooking until the internal temperature hits 165°F ensures the chicken is perfectly done and safe to eat.

Step 3: Garlic Magic

Remove the chicken to a plate and reduce the heat slightly. Toss your minced garlic into the skillet and sauté just until fragrant—about one minute. This brief cooking time prevents bitterness while releasing that unmistakable garlic aroma which is the heart of this recipe.

Step 4: Crafting the Creamy Sauce

Now gently lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring steadily to incorporate all those savory pan flavors into a smooth sauce. The cream transforms what could be a simple pan sauce into a rich and velvety coating that dresses every bite of chicken.

Step 5: Cheesy Goodness

Sprinkle in both the mozzarella and cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until they melt beautifully into the cream. Adding Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper now layers in warmth and rounds out the flavor profile of your sauce, creating that signature gooey, cheesy finish.

Step 6: Final Simmer and Serve

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them gently into the luscious sauce. Let the whole skillet simmer together for about five minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up all those incredible flavors. Serve hot, straight from the pan, preferably over pasta or fluffy rice to soak up every bit of that ooey gooey cheesy garlic goodness.

How to Serve Ooey Gooey Cheesy Garlic Chicken

Garnishes

Adding the right garnishes transforms your Ooey Gooey Cheesy Garlic Chicken from delicious to dazzling. Fresh chopped parsley or basil not only adds a vibrant color pop but also a fresh, herbaceous contrast to the rich cheese sauce. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat that balances the creaminess perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that soak up the sauce. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic bread are classic choices that complement the richness, while a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint. For a lighter option, steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli work beautifully to add color and nutrition.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve your chicken on a bed of seasoned rice or herby pasta arranged in a shallow bowl, topped with an extra drizzle of sauce and fresh herbs. You might even try spooning the cheesy garlic sauce over a baked potato or layering it as a decadent filling for stuffed bell peppers. These creative twists turn the beloved Ooey Gooey Cheesy Garlic Chicken into an eye-catching centerpiece for any meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ooey Gooey Cheesy Garlic Chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a great option for next-day meals or quick reheats. Just be sure to cool it properly before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

If you want to save this cheesy delight for longer, it freezes beautifully. Place chicken breasts and sauce in suitable freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. For best texture and flavor, consume within two to three months.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the oven to avoid drying out the chicken and sauce. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating helps revive the sauce’s creamy consistency. Avoiding the microwave ensures the cheese stays delightfully ooey gooey rather than rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar create the perfect balance of melt and sharpness, you can experiment with cheeses like gouda, provolone, or even pepper jack for a twist. Just make sure the cheeses melt well and complement the garlic flavor.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or a creamy dairy-free alternative, and use dairy-free cheese substitutes. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will vary slightly, but it can still be deliciously satisfying.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative that can add extra juiciness and flavor. Adjust cooking time as thighs might take a bit longer to reach 165°F internally, and the sauce pairs just as well with them.

How spicy is this recipe?

This Ooey Gooey Cheesy Garlic Chicken is mild and creamy by default, making it very approachable. If you enjoy heat, you can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.

What’s the best way to serve this dish for a crowd?

For gatherings, prepare the sauce and chicken in a large skillet or casserole dish and keep warm in the oven. Serve over a big bowl of pasta or rice buffet-style so guests can customize their plates with extra sauce and garnishes.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Ooey Gooey Cheesy Garlic Chicken that makes every meal feel like a celebration at home. It’s rich, comforting, and packed with flavors that please everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe is sure to become a favorite, bringing you warmth and cheesy joy with every single bite. Don’t wait—give your kitchen a delicious makeover with this irresistible dish!

Ooey Gooey Cheesy Garlic Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 13 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

Print Recipe

Description

This Ooey Gooey Cheesy Garlic Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy garlic cheese sauce made with mozzarella and cheddar. Perfect for a comforting dinner served over pasta or rice, this recipe boasts a perfect blend of Italian seasoning and buttery goodness, making it irresistibly delicious and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
Salt and pepper to taste

Garlic Cheese Sauce

4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
3 tbsp butter
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season generously on both sides with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
Sear the Chicken: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Sauté Garlic: Lower the heat to medium, add the minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine it with the garlic butter to form a smooth base. Then add the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, stirring continuously until the cheeses melt into a rich, creamy sauce. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
Simmer Chicken in Sauce: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the cheese sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Serve: Serve the ooey gooey cheesy garlic chicken hot, spooning plenty of the luscious sauce over the top. This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta or steamed rice for a satisfying meal.

Notes

For an extra crispy crust on the chicken, you can lightly flour the breasts before searing.
If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
To add a fresh touch, garnish with chopped parsley or basil before serving.
Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels in the dish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Searing and Simmering
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (approx. 6 oz)
Calories: 480
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 410 mg
Fat: 33 g
Saturated Fat: 19 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 5 g
Fiber: 0.5 g
Protein: 36 g
Cholesterol: 140 mg

Keywords: cheesy garlic chicken, creamy chicken recipe, mozzarella chicken, cheddar cheese chicken, Italian chicken, easy dinner recipes, creamy garlic sauce