Creamy Garlic Chicken

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is an irresistible dish that brings comfort and flavor to any dinner table. The rich, creamy sauce paired with tender chicken breasts makes it perfect for special occasions or a cozy weeknight meal. With caramelized garlic cloves enhancing the taste, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just one skillet, you can create a delicious meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.
• Flavorful Sauce: The creamy garlic sauce is rich and savory, providing a gourmet touch to your everyday cooking.
• Versatile Dish: Perfectly pairs with rice, pasta, or vegetables, making it adaptable for any side you prefer.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just under an hour, it’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but quick.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers store well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy this dish again throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before jumping into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Serving spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the chicken while providing enough space for the sauce.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors in the creamy garlic sauce.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your skillet’s surface, helping to combine ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken, you’ll need the following 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

For Cooking

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 10 whole cloves garlic

For Creaminess

• 3 tablespoons flour
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasonings.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sear the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic

In the same skillet, add butter and whole garlic cloves. Sauté until garlic is caramelized but not burnt.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Add flour to the skillet and stir well to form a roux. Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.

Step 5: Add Flavors

Incorporate beef bouillon cube (or better than bouillon), soy sauce, onion powder, thyme, and mustard powder into the mixture. Let it simmer for a few minutes.

Step 6: Finish with Cream

Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until combined. Return chicken to skillet and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until fully cooked through.

Enjoy your homemade Creamy Garlic Chicken, complete with its rich gravy!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken

Serving Creamy Garlic Chicken is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making it a delightful meal. Here are some tasty serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Pasta

• Fettuccine or Linguine: Toss the creamy sauce over freshly cooked pasta for a satisfying meal. The noodles soak up the flavors beautifully.
• Penne: Use penne pasta to capture the creamy sauce in every bite. Top with extra Parmesan for added flavor.

Serve Over Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A classic choice, white rice absorbs the delicious gravy and balances the richness of the chicken.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and texture that complements the dish well.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sauté spinach with garlic for a vibrant side that pairs perfectly with creamy chicken.
• Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle roasted asparagus with lemon juice to enhance its flavor, providing a fresh contrast to the dish.

Make it a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and Caesar dressing add crunch and zest, making it a refreshing side option.
• Mixed Greens: A light salad of mixed greens with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chicken.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken

Perfecting your Creamy Garlic Chicken is simple with a few helpful tips. Follow these guidelines for an irresistible dish.

• Bold seasoning: Season your chicken generously with salt and pepper before cooking. This enhances its natural flavors and makes every bite delicious.
• Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic cloves lend an aromatic quality that dried garlic cannot replicate. It’s worth the effort!
• Don’t rush browning: Take your time when browning the chicken. A good sear locks in moisture and adds depth of flavor.
• Balance creaminess: If your sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Finish with herbs: Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme before serving. This adds freshness and a pop of color.
• Rest before serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain juices and improves overall texture.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Pairing sides with Creamy Garlic Chicken can enhance your meal’s overall flavor profile. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for mopping up all that delicious gravy from your plate.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent pairing, adding comfort and heartiness to your meal.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings some healthy grains into play, offering a nice contrast to the rich chicken dish.
4. Grilled Zucchini: A simple grilled zucchini adds freshness and lightness without overpowering the main dish.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances out the creamy texture of the chicken.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of baked sweet potatoes contrasts well with savory garlic flavors, creating an enjoyable combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Garlic Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes that can affect your dish.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Using low-quality garlic: Using pre-minced or low-quality garlic can lessen the dish’s flavor. Fresh garlic cloves provide a much richer taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Neglecting the sauce consistency: If your sauce is too thin, you might not get that creamy texture. Add flour gradually and let it simmer until thickened.
• Not letting the chicken rest: Cutting into the chicken right away can cause juices to escape. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Creamy Garlic Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure it’s cooled down before refrigerating for better preservation.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Chicken

• Place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Label the container with a date for easy tracking.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water. Add the chicken and cover until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Creamy Garlic Chicken more flavorful?

To enhance flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or fresh parsley along with your garlic. A splash of white wine during cooking can also elevate the taste.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and add more depth of flavor.

What should I serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken?

This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, consider adding a side salad or crusty bread.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare Creamy Garlic Chicken in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Chicken is not only rich and satisfying but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting spices based on your preferences. Give this delightful recipe a try—it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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: Vanessa
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, savory garlic cream sauce. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is as simple as it is delicious. The caramelized garlic adds a depth of flavor that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. Whether served over pasta, rice, or alongside fresh vegetables, this versatile meal is sure to impress.

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Ingredients

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• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 10 whole cloves of garlic
• ⅓ cup flour
• 4 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (shredded)
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Italian seasonings

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Instructions

1. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasonings.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; sear chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown, then set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add butter and garlic cloves; sauté until garlic is caramelized.
4. Stir in flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth.
5. Add beef bouillon, soy sauce, onion powder, thyme, and mustard powder; simmer for a few minutes.
6. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; return chicken to the skillet and cook until fully cooked through.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Searing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (200g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 120mg