Best Chicken Gloria Recipe: Rich, Creamy, with Beef Bacon

Chicken Gloria is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to a truly memorable dining experience, and I promise you, it’s worth every moment. Imagine tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a sumptuously rich and aromatic sauce, a symphony of flavors that truly elevates your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. This classic dish, while its precise lineage is often discussed with fondness in culinary circles, has cemented its place as a beloved staple in homes across the country, embodying the very essence of comforting yet elegant home cooking.

I find myself returning to this recipe time and again because it effortlessly transforms simple ingredients into something truly spectacular, perfect for both busy weeknights and grand celebrations alike. Its delectable combination of textures, from the perfectly cooked chicken to the velvety sauce, along with its deeply satisfying taste, ensures a universally adored meal. Once you savor its exquisite blend of textures and tastes, you’ll quickly understand why Chicken Gloria has captivated so many palates and continues to be a cherished favorite.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each), or 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for searing
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, plus more to taste
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• For the Signature Gloria Sauce:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio), optional, but highly recommended for depth
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes (good quality is key!)
  • ½ cup chicken broth, low sodium
  • ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained and finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your preference for heat)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus extra for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
• For Serving (Optional):
  • Cooked pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne work beautifully)
  • Fluffy rice
  • Crusty bread for dipping

Preparing the Chicken for Chicken Gloria:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by patting your chicken breasts or thighs thoroughly dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps achieve a beautiful sear and prevents the chicken from steaming. If using chicken breasts, I recommend slicing them horizontally to create two thinner cutlets, or gently pounding them to an even ¾-inch thickness. This ensures quicker and more even cooking. For thighs, simply pat dry.
2. Marinate for Flavor: In a shallow dish or a large zip-top bag, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Add the prepared chicken to this marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. If you have the time, let it marinate at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, or refrigerate for up to an hour. This short marinade infuses a foundational layer of flavor that truly elevates the final Chicken Gloria.
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and shimmering, but not browning too quickly. Carefully add the marinated chicken pieces to the hot pan, being sure not to overcrowd the skillet. You may need to do this in batches. Sear for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is beautifully golden brown and has developed a rich crust. At this stage, the chicken does not need to be cooked through; we are simply building flavor and texture. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. It will finish cooking later in our exquisite sauce.

Crafting the Signature Gloria Sauce:

4. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom – these are packed with flavor! Add the finely diced yellow onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft, translucent, and fragrant. Next, add the 3 minced garlic cloves and the finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. The sun-dried tomatoes add a wonderful concentrated sweet-tart note that is indispensable for our Chicken Gloria.
5. Deglaze with Wine (Optional but Recommended): If you’re using white wine, now is the time to add it. Pour in the ½ cup of dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan vigorously with a wooden spoon to release any remaining browned bits. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and its complex flavors to concentrate. This step adds a beautiful depth and acidity to the sauce.
6. Build the Tomato Base: Pour in the 1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes and the ½ cup of low-sodium chicken broth. Stir well to combine. Add the dried basil, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the sauce. Season with ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper to start. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and let it cook for at least 15-20 minutes. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken slightly, forming the heart of our Chicken Gloria.
7. Enrich the Sauce: After simmering, uncover the sauce and stir in the ½ cup of heavy cream. If you prefer a lighter sauce, half-and-half works wonderfully too. The cream adds a luxurious, velvety texture and balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Continue to stir until the cream is fully incorporated and the sauce is a beautiful, cohesive mixture.
8. Add Parmesan and Fresh Herbs: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the ¼ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The Parmesan not only adds a wonderful umami richness but also helps to further thicken the sauce and gives it that desirable slightly salty, savory finish. Finally, gently fold in the ¼ cup of fresh chopped basil leaves and 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley. The fresh herbs added at this stage maintain their vibrant color and aromatic intensity, providing a fresh counterpoint to the rich sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or even a tiny pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are particularly acidic.

Bringing the Chicken Gloria Together:

9. Return Chicken to Sauce: Gently nestle the seared chicken pieces back into the glorious sauce, ensuring they are partially submerged. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to ensure it’s well coated.
10. Finish Cooking: Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer in the sauce over low heat for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). This final simmering step allows the chicken to absorb all the incredible flavors of the sauce, transforming it into truly tender and flavorful Chicken Gloria.
11. Rest and Serve: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices in the chicken to redistribute, ensuring it remains incredibly moist.

Serving Your Exquisite Chicken Gloria:

12. Garnish and Present: Ladle a generous portion of your magnificent Chicken Gloria onto individual plates. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a scattering of fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and aroma.
13. Serving Suggestions: This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic Italian-inspired meal, serve it over a bed of al dente pasta – fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne are excellent choices for catching every drop of that luscious sauce. Alternatively, it’s wonderful with fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even simple roasted vegetables. Don’t forget a side of crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the incredible Gloria sauce!
14. Storage and Reheating: Leftover Chicken Gloria stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. It’s a dish that often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had more time to deepen and meld. Enjoy every delightful bite!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, friends! We’ve journeyed through the simple yet profound steps to creating what I truly believe is one of the most remarkable chicken dishes you’ll ever encounter: the incomparable Chicken Gloria. If you’ve been searching for that one recipe that consistently delivers on flavor, convenience, and pure culinary satisfaction, your quest ends here. This isn’t just another weeknight meal; it’s an experience, a symphony of savory notes that dances on your palate and leaves you utterly content. I’ve seen firsthand how this dish transforms a regular dinner into something special, eliciting smiles and requests for second helpings every single time. Its rich, aromatic sauce, combined with tender, perfectly cooked chicken, creates a harmony that’s both comforting and sophisticated. The secret lies in the balance of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building a complex flavor profile that’s surprisingly easy to achieve. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen, drawing everyone in with its irresistible promise of deliciousness. That’s the magic of Chicken Gloria.

One of the many reasons I adore this recipe is its incredible versatility. While it shines brightly on its own, it also welcomes a variety of accompaniments and creative twists. For a classic, comforting meal, I love serving my Chicken Gloria alongside a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes, which perfectly soak up every drop of that exquisite sauce. Fluffy white rice is another excellent choice, allowing the sauce to be the star. If you’re looking for something lighter, consider pairing it with a vibrant green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette or some steamed asparagus or green beans for a pop of freshness and color. For a slightly heartier option, roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips complement the savory flavors beautifully. And let’s not forget the perfect beverage pairing! A crisp, unoaked Chardonnay or even a light-bodied Pinot Noir would elevate the dining experience, harmonizing with the dish’s richness without overpowering it.

But why stop there? The beauty of cooking lies in experimentation, and Chicken Gloria is wonderfully adaptable. Feeling adventurous? Try incorporating some sundried tomatoes for an extra layer of umami, or a handful of fresh spinach wilted into the sauce for added greens. A pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat, while a swirl of heavy cream at the end will make the sauce even more luxurious and velvety. You could even swap out the chicken breast for boneless, skinless thighs if you prefer a richer, more succulent cut that stands up wonderfully to the cooking process. For a truly unique variation, consider adding sliced mushrooms or artichoke hearts, which absorb the flavors of the sauce magnificently. This recipe is a fantastic canvas for your culinary imagination, inviting you to put your own personal stamp on it and make it truly your own. Whether you stick to the original or venture into new territory, the core deliciousness remains.

So, now it’s your turn! I genuinely hope you’re feeling inspired to roll up your sleeves and bring this fantastic recipe to life in your own kitchen. I promise you, the effort is minimal, but the reward is immense. There’s something truly special about creating a meal that brings joy to your table, and Chicken Gloria has a remarkable way of doing just that. Don’t be shy – dive in, follow the steps, and prepare to be amazed by the deliciousness you’ll create. Once you’ve experienced the magic of this dish, I would absolutely love to hear about it! Please, share your culinary adventures with me. Did you make any exciting variations? What did you serve it with? Snap a picture, leave a comment, or tag me on social media. Your feedback and experiences are incredibly valuable and inspiring to me and to our entire cooking community. Let’s celebrate the joy of good food together, starting with this unforgettable Chicken Gloria!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Gloria

What exactly is Chicken Gloria?

Chicken Gloria is a wonderfully flavorful and relatively easy-to-make chicken dish, often characterized by its rich, savory sauce, typically made with ingredients like garlic, herbs, broth, and sometimes a touch of cream or wine. It’s designed to be a crowd-pleaser, delivering deep, satisfying flavors with tender, juicy chicken.

Can I prepare Chicken Gloria ahead of time?

Absolutely! Chicken Gloria is an excellent meal for meal prepping. You can cook the entire dish and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. In fact, many find that the flavors deepen and meld even more beautifully after a day or two, making it taste even better! Simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What are some common variations for Chicken Gloria?

The beauty of Chicken Gloria lies in its adaptability! You can:

• Add Vegetables:

  Incorporate sliced mushrooms, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts for extra flavor and nutrients.

• Spice it Up:

  A pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick.

• Change the Protein:

  While chicken breast is traditional, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully for a richer flavor. You could even adapt the sauce for pork tenderloin.

• Creaminess Factor:

  Swirl in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream or half-and-half at the very end for an extra luxurious sauce.

• Herbs:

  Experiment with different fresh herbs like oregano or thyme to subtly alter the aromatic profile.

What side dishes pair best with Chicken Gloria?

Chicken Gloria is incredibly versatile with sides! Here are some of my top recommendations:

• Starchy Sides:

  Creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, or even pasta like fettuccine or penne are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

• Vegetable Sides:

  Steamed or roasted asparagus, green beans, broccoli, or a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette add freshness and balance.

• Bread:

  A crusty baguette or garlic bread is always a fantastic choice for scooping up every last drop of that incredible sauce.

Is Chicken Gloria freezer-friendly?

Yes, Chicken Gloria freezes quite well! Allow the cooked dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s piping hot. You might need to add a splash of broth or water during reheating if the sauce has thickened too much.

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Gloria

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Gloria is an invitation to a truly memorable dining experience. Imagine tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a sumptuously rich and creamy sauce with savory mushrooms. This classic dish transforms simple ingredients into something truly spectacular, perfect for both weeknights and celebrations. Its delectable combination of textures and deeply satisfying taste ensures a universally adored meal.

Prep Time
15 Minutes

Cook Time
45 Minutes

Total Time
1 Hours

Servings
4 servings

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (for deglazing/wine substitute)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (for sauce base)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Pat chicken breasts dry; slice horizontally or pound to ¾-inch thickness. Season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Step 2
   Heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. Step 3
   In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté finely chopped onion for 5-7 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms; cook for 2-3 minutes until tender.
4. Step 4
   Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth (replacing wine); scrape pan bottom to loosen browned bits. Simmer for 2-3 minutes. Stir in the remaining 1/2 cup chicken broth and Dijon mustard. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Step 5
   Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and cohesive. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Step 6
   Gently nest the seared chicken pieces back into the sauce. Cover the skillet and simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
7. Step 7
   Remove skillet from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve your Creamy Mushroom Chicken Gloria hot with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for dipping.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.