Creamy Garlic Chicken
This Creamy Garlic Chicken is perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to an elegant gathering. The dish features tender chicken breasts enveloped in a rich, savory gravy, enhanced by caramelized garlic cloves. Its creamy texture and flavorful profile make it a standout choice that pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or rice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 55 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasonings creates a mouthwatering sauce that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve this dish with pasta, rice, or vegetables – it goes well with just about anything!
- One-Skillet Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet, allowing you more time to enjoy your meal.
- Impressive Presentation: The creamy sauce and caramelized garlic not only taste great but also look fantastic on the plate.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools at your disposal. Having these essentials will help streamline your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the chicken.
- Measuring Cups: Precise measurements are key to achieving the perfect consistency in your creamy sauce.
Ingredients
This Creamy Garlic Chicken is smothered in a rich and flavorful gravy that’s easy to make in a single skillet. Caramelized garlic cloves add the perfect balance of gourmet flavor.
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
For Finishing Touches
- 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
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasonings.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
In the same skillet, add butter and whole garlic cloves. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic starts to caramelize.
Step 4: Create the Sauce Base
Add flour to the skillet and whisk for about one minute. Gradually pour in chicken broth while continuing to whisk to eliminate any lumps.
Step 5: Flavor It Up
Stir in beef bouillon cube, soy sauce, onion powder, dried thyme, and mustard powder. Let simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Pour heavy cream over everything and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Now you’re ready to serve this delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken! Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish that will surely impress your family or guests.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
With Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect base for this savory dish. The rich gravy from the chicken enhances the potatoes’ flavor, making every bite indulgent.
Over Rice
- Serve the creamy garlic chicken on a bed of fluffy rice. The rice will soak up the delicious sauce, providing a satisfying and hearty meal.
Accompanied by Steamed Vegetables
- Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for a colorful plate. The fresh vegetables add a nutritious aspect and balance the richness of the chicken.
On a Bed of Spinach
- For a lighter option, serve the chicken on sautéed spinach. The garlic flavor complements the greens beautifully while keeping the dish healthy.
With Crusty Bread
- A slice of crusty bread is great for soaking up any leftover sauce. This option adds a comforting touch and makes for an excellent side.
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken
To ensure your Creamy Garlic Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide a robust flavor that enhances the dish’s overall taste compared to pre-minced options.
- Sear Chicken Properly: Searing the chicken breasts until they are golden brown locks in moisture and adds depth to the flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook and adjust seasoning according to your preference. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference.
- Don’t Rush Adding Cream: Allowing the sauce to simmer before adding cream helps develop richer flavors.
- Let It Rest: Letting the chicken rest briefly after cooking helps retain juices, ensuring it stays moist when served.
- Garnish Thoughtfully: Consider garnishing with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese for an appealing presentation.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Chicken
Pair your Creamy Garlic Chicken with complementary side dishes to create a complete meal. Here are some delicious options:
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce; simply toast slices brushed with garlic butter.
- Roasted Asparagus – Toss asparagus with olive oil and roast until tender; it’s both flavorful and nutritious.
- Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb option that absorbs sauces beautifully; season it lightly for added flavor.
- Quinoa Salad – A refreshing salad mixed with veggies and herbs provides a light contrast to the creamy dish.
- Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw offers texture and balance against the rich garlic chicken; use a vinegar dressing for brightness.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with savory flavors; simply bake until soft and enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Garlic Chicken, small errors can lead to big disappointments. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken with salt and pepper can lead to bland flavor. Always season before cooking for a better taste.
- Overcooking the garlic: Garlic cooks quickly and can burn easily. Sauté it just until golden for the best flavor.
- Not using enough liquid: If you don’t add enough chicken broth, your sauce may be too thick. Adjust the liquid based on your preferred consistency.
- Using low-quality chicken: Cheap chicken can affect flavor and texture. Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for a delicious result.
- Ignoring the resting time: Cutting into your chicken too soon can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Creamy Garlic Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Chicken
- For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover the dish, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot; cover to retain moisture.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or cream in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Creamy Garlic Chicken.
What is Creamy Garlic Chicken?
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a flavorful dish where chicken breasts are cooked in a rich garlic cream sauce. It’s perfect as a comforting dinner option!
How can I make my Creamy Garlic Chicken healthier?
You can use low-fat cream or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream and opt for skinless chicken. Adding more vegetables also increases nutritional value.
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes! While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can use pork or turkey for a different twist on creamy garlic flavors.
What should I serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or spices according to your taste. This comforting dish is sure to impress family and friends—give it a try!
Creamy Garlic Chicken
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delectable dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, savory garlic cream sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this one-skillet wonder is ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With its mouthwatering blend of garlic and Parmesan, this dish offers comforting flavors that pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or sautéed vegetables. Impress your family and guests with an easy recipe that delivers gourmet taste without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 10 whole garlic cloves
- ⅓ cup flour
- 4 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (shredded)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Italian seasonings
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasonings.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown; remove from skillet.
- Add butter and garlic cloves to the same skillet; sauté until caramelized (about 2-3 minutes).
- Whisk in flour for one minute, then gradually add chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Stir in beef bouillon, soy sauce, onion powder, thyme, and mustard powder; let simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.
- Return chicken to skillet, pour in heavy cream and sprinkle with Parmesan if desired; simmer another 5-7 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (200g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
