Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a comforting dish that features tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich and velvety garlic cream sauce. The combination of garlic, cream, and tender chicken makes this a perfect meal for weeknights or special occasions. Best of all, it’s quick to prepare and pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed vegetables. Let’s dive into this easy and flavorful recipe!

Table of Contents

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Dredge the chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess.
  2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Garlic Butter Base: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
  4. Add the Broth and Cream: Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the skillet and release any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, dried parsley, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add Parmesan and Finish the Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and let the sauce cook for 3-4 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
  6. Return Chicken to the Skillet: Add the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 3-4 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm with your favorite side dishes.

Cook’s Notes and Tips

  • Cooking Time: Make sure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
  • Thickening the Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few more minutes. Alternatively, you can mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce.
  • Prevent Garlic from Burning: Garlic can burn quickly, so be sure to cook it on medium heat and stir constantly until it becomes fragrant.

Variations

  • Mushroom Creamy Garlic Chicken: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet after removing the chicken. Sauté until tender before proceeding with the garlic and cream.
  • Spinach Creamy Garlic Chicken: Stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition.
  • Lemon Garlic Chicken: Add the juice of half a lemon to the sauce for a bright, tangy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

  • Mashed Potatoes: Serve the creamy garlic chicken over mashed potatoes to soak up all the delicious sauce.
  • Pasta: Pair with fettuccine or penne pasta for a complete and satisfying meal.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed broccoli or green beans for a balanced meal.
  • Rice: A side of fluffy rice is perfect for soaking up the rich garlic cream sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. The cooking time may be slightly longer, as thighs take a bit more time to cook through.

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Store the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Can I Freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken?

While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly when reheated. If you choose to freeze it, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?

You can use half-and-half for a lighter version of the sauce, though it may not be as rich. You could also use coconut cream for a dairy-free option, though it will add a slight coconut flavor.

How Do I Prevent the Sauce from Splitting?

Make sure to cook the sauce over medium heat and avoid boiling it, as high heat can cause the cream to split. Stirring frequently also helps to keep the sauce smooth.

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a rich, comforting dish that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare. The tender chicken, combined with a velvety garlic cream sauce, makes it perfect for a cozy family dinner or even a special occasion. With simple ingredients and a quick preparation time, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal.

Happy Cooking!

 

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