Creamy Garlic Chicken

This Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe is a delightful dish that showcases tender chicken breasts enveloped in a luscious garlic-infused gravy. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a gourmet touch without the fuss. The caramelized garlic adds depth, making this meal both comforting and elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 55 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, seasonings, and cream creates a deliciously rich sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with pasta, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Enjoy the convenience of cooking everything in a single skillet, minimizing cleanup time.
• Impressive Presentation: Perfectly caramelized garlic and creamy sauce make this dish visually stunning.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Creamy Garlic Chicken, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows even cooking and browning of the chicken while helping to develop flavors in the sauce.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for balanced flavors in your sauce.
• Whisk: A whisk helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring a creamy texture without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt/Pepper
• 3 teaspoons Italian seasonings

For the Sauce

• ⅓ cup flour
• 4 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (shredded)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 beef bouillon cube (or 1 tsp better than bouillon)
• 1 teaspoon low sodium soy sauce (can sub Worcestershire sauce)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon EACH: Dried thyme, mustard powder
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 10 whole cloves garlic
• 3 tablespoons flour
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasonings on both sides.
2. Dredge each breast lightly in flour to coat.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for about 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt.
2. Stir in whole garlic cloves and cook until they turn golden brown.
3. Add flour to the pan, whisking continuously for about 1 minute until well combined.
4. Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps from forming.

Step 4: Finish Cooking

1. Add beef bouillon cube, soy sauce, onion powder, thyme, and mustard powder to the skillet.
2. Bring to a simmer before returning the chicken breasts to the pan.
3. Cover and cook for an additional 15–20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

Step 5: Create Creaminess

1. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream along with Parmesan cheese if using.
2. Let simmer for another few minutes until thickened slightly.
3. Taste for seasoning adjustments before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken, perfect for impressing family or guests!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Thyme Sprigs: Garnish with thyme for an aromatic touch that complements the garlic.

Over Rice or Pasta

• Steamed Rice: Serve the chicken over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious gravy.
• Fettuccine: Pair with fettuccine pasta for a creamy, satisfying meal.

With Vegetables

• Sautéed Spinach: Add sautéed spinach on the side for a nutritious and vibrant contrast.
• Roasted Broccoli: Serve alongside roasted broccoli for added crunch and health benefits.

As a Sandwich

• In a Wrap: Use the creamy chicken filling in a tortilla wrap with fresh veggies for a tasty lunch option.
• On Crusty Bread: Serve on crusty bread as an open-faced sandwich topped with additional sauce and herbs.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken

To ensure your Creamy Garlic Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
• Preheat Your Pan: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding oil to achieve a nice sear on the chicken.
• Don’t Rush the Garlic: Allow the garlic cloves to caramelize slowly for maximum flavor without burning them.
• Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
• Taste as You Go: Sample the sauce during cooking and adjust seasoning as needed for optimal flavor balance.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Garlic Chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a perfect match for this dish.
2. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs sauces well while adding nutrients to your meal.
3. Green Beans Almondine: Crunchy green beans sautéed with almonds provide texture and flavor contrast.
4. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad of quinoa mixed with vegetables adds a healthy element to your plate.
5. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed with vinaigrette balances the richness of the creamy chicken.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled until slightly charred complement the savory flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Garlic Chicken, there are a few common pitfalls to steer clear of for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C).
• Neglecting the garlic: Burnt garlic tastes bitter. Sauté the garlic gently just until golden brown for a sweet flavor.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold cream or broth can cause separation. Let them come to room temperature before using.
• Not whisking thoroughly: Failing to properly whisk in flour can result in lumps. Ensure a smooth mixture when adding it to your sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Chicken

• Place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until hot throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Creamy Garlic Chicken.

How do I make Creamy Garlic Chicken healthier?

You can reduce the amount of cream and use low-fat alternatives. Adding more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can also boost nutrition.

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with turkey or even lamb. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

What sides pair well with Creamy Garlic Chicken?

Consider serving it with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

How do I store leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Chicken is not only rich and flavorful but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can easily customize it with your favorite herbs or vegetables. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its creamy goodness!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Creamy Garlic Chicken

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of our Creamy Garlic Chicken, a delectable dish that transforms tender chicken breasts into a gourmet experience. Infused with caramelized garlic and enveloped in a luscious sauce, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Not only is it easy to prepare in just 55 minutes, but it also offers versatility—pair it with pasta, rice, or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal that satisfies all palates. Plus, the one-skillet preparation means less cleanup, making your cooking experience more enjoyable. Impress your family or guests with this comforting yet elegant dish!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper
• 3 teaspoons Italian seasonings
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 10 whole cloves garlic
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 4 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (shredded)
• ⅓ cup flour for dredging
• 3 tablespoons flour for sauce

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Instructions

1. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasonings; lightly dredge in flour.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; sear chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until golden. Add flour, whisking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps; stir in bouillon, soy sauce, onion powder, thyme, and mustard powder.
5. Return chicken to skillet, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until cooked through.
6. Lower heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; let simmer until thickened slightly.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (approximately 180g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 120mg