Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a rich and comforting dish that will satisfy your craving for something indulgent yet simple to prepare. The creamy sauce, made with garlic, butter, and a touch of parmesan, beautifully coats tender chicken breasts for a dish that feels both luxurious and homey. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy and Flavorful

The creamy garlic sauce is packed with bold flavors from the garlic, butter, and parmesan cheese, creating a rich and savory dish that’s perfect with chicken.

2. Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

3. Tender, Juicy Chicken

The chicken breasts turn out incredibly tender and juicy, especially when cooked in the creamy garlic sauce, which helps to keep them moist and flavorful.

4. Versatile

You can pair Creamy Garlic Chicken with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables, making it a versatile dish that works for any meal.

5. Comfort Food

With its rich, creamy sauce, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. It’s warm, satisfying, and perfect for those nights when you want something hearty.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and texture.
• Spicy Garlic Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Different Protein: Try this recipe with chicken thighs or even shrimp for a variation of this creamy dish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 3: Add Parmesan and Simmer

Add the grated parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the chicken. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors and become tender.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken breasts, as this can make them dry. Using a meat thermometer, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Creamy Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth or a little more cream to reach your desired consistency.
• Make It Ahead: You can make the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before adding the chicken.

How to Serve

Creamy Garlic Chicken pairs wonderfully with:

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce is perfect for smothering over mashed potatoes.
• Pasta: Serve over spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice for a rich and satisfying meal.
• Rice: Serve with white or brown rice to soak up all the creamy sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make a perfect side to balance out the richness of the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Freezing

You can freeze the chicken and sauce together for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it up on the stove, adding a little extra cream or broth as needed.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but be sure to add a bit of liquid to keep the sauce from thickening too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as chicken thighs take a bit longer to cook.

2. Can I make this recipe with milk instead of heavy cream?

While heavy cream provides the best texture, you can substitute with whole milk. However, the sauce won’t be as thick or rich.

3. How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, simmer it a bit longer to reduce, or stir in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water until it reaches the desired consistency.

4. Can I use store-bought chicken broth?

Yes, store-bought chicken broth works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to choose a low-sodium version if you’re watching your salt intake.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the chicken when you’re ready to serve and heat the sauce before combining.

6. Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Yes, vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes work wonderfully in this dish. Add them to the sauce in the final few minutes of simmering.

7. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add a spicy kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when making the sauce.

8. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can substitute parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago.

9. How can I make the chicken more flavorful?

Marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs before cooking for an extra layer of flavor.

10. What should I serve this with?

Creamy Garlic Chicken goes well with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. It’s a versatile dish that can be paired with many different sides.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that’s quick to prepare yet indulgent enough to feel like a special meal. With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion!

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