Creamy Garlic Chicken

Introduction

Creamy Garlic Chicken is the perfect dish for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With tender chicken breasts coated in a rich, creamy garlic sauce, this meal is sure to impress your family and friends. The blend of flavors creates a comforting and satisfying experience that is simple yet elegant. Perfectly paired with pasta, rice, or vegetables, this dish is versatile and easy to make.

Why Make This Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner routine. The rich and creamy garlic sauce gives this dish a depth of flavor that is hard to resist. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. With minimal ingredients and straightforward cooking steps, this recipe makes it easy to create a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home. You’ll love how simple it is to fill your kitchen with the warm and inviting aroma of garlic and herbs!

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken

Making Creamy Garlic Chicken all starts with prepping your ingredients. Chef-prepped chicken breasts not only cook faster but also soak up the flavors of the creamy sauce much better. You’ll season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then coat it in flour for that perfect golden crust. A hot skillet with olive oil and butter helps you get a beautiful sear on each side of the chicken. After removing the chicken from the skillet, you will sauté smashed garlic to create a fragrant base, then add in chicken broth and heavy cream to form the delicious sauce. After simmering and reducing, return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over, and your dish is ready to serve!

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.3 lbs. total)
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 Tbsp butter, divided
• 1 whole garlic bulb (about 8-9 garlic cloves)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Prep the chicken: Using a sharp knife, carefully fillet each chicken breast into two thinner cutlets or use thin-cut chicken breasts. Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle flour over both sides of the chicken, rubbing it in until evenly coated.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat, then add olive oil and 1 Tbsp of butter. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken and cook for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet to a clean plate and cover it to keep warm.
3. Prepare the garlic: Peel the garlic cloves and smash them with the side of a large chef’s knife. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 Tbsp of butter, then add smashed garlic. Turn the heat down to medium-low and sauté the garlic for about 3 minutes until lightly browned and fragrant.
4. Make the sauce: Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, then add garlic powder. Stir to scrape up any brown bits from the skillet and let the sauce simmer for 8-10 minutes or until reduced by about 50%. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed.
5. Combine and serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spoon the creamy sauce over the top, heat through, and serve with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken is best served hot, drizzled with the rich sauce and garnished with fresh parsley for added color. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as fluffy rice, buttered pasta, or sautéed vegetables. This meal works beautifully on special occasions or as a comforting weeknight dinner, ensuring your plate looks as good as it tastes!

How to Store Creamy Garlic Chicken

To store leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken, allow it to cool completely. Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to reheat gently to maintain the texture and flavor of the creaminess.

Tips to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken

• For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in garlic and herbs before cooking.
• If you prefer a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of spice.
• Always taste the sauce as it simmers to adjust seasoning to your liking.

Can You Freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken

Yes, you can freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken! To do this, let the dish cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag-up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How to Reheat Creamy Garlic Chicken

To reheat, place the creamy garlic chicken in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency as it warms up. Stir occasionally until heated through and enjoy your meal!

Variation

If you want to switch it up, try adding fresh spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition. You can also substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier bite.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it is fully thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
   To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or almond milk. Use a dairy-free butter substitute as well.
3. What should I serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken?
   This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it over pasta for a more filling meal.

With this Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe in your arsenal, you’ll find that making delicious, comforting meals at home is easier than ever! Enjoy every bite and share your creations with loved ones.

creamy garlic chicken

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Ingredients

  

• – 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.3 lbs. total)
• – 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• – 1/2 tsp salt
• – 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• – 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• – 2 Tbsp olive oil
• – 2 Tbsp butter divided
• – 1 whole garlic bulb about 8-9 garlic cloves
• – 1 cup chicken broth
• – 3/4 cup heavy cream
• – 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• – Additional salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Start by carefully filleting each chicken breast into two thinner cutlets. This will help them cook evenly. Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Dust the flour on both sides, giving it a good rub to ensure it’s well-coated.
• Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat, adding in the olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the skillet is hot, place the chicken in, cooking it for about 4 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken and place it on a clean plate, covering it to keep warm.
• Now, let’s dive into the garlic! Peel the garlic cloves and give them a gentle smash with the side of your chef’s knife. In the same skillet, toss in the remaining tablespoon of butter and the smashed garlic. Lower the heat to medium-low and sauté the garlic for about 3 minutes until it’s lightly golden and fragrant.
• Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then sprinkle in the garlic powder. Stir everything around, scraping up those tasty brown bits from the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 8-10 minutes, reducing it by about half. Give it a taste and add more salt and pepper if you like.
• Finally, return the cooked chicken back to the skillet, spoon that delicious creamy sauce over the top, and heat everything through. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy every bite of this creamy goodness!