Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that is perfect for any occasion. It combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce that is infused with aromatic garlic. This recipe is quick and easy to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights, yet it feels special enough for a dinner party. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a comforting meal that will impress your family and friends.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken
To prepare this creamy dish, you start by filleting chicken breasts, seasoning them, and cooking them to a golden perfection. The sauce is created by sautéing garlic and then mixing it with chicken broth and heavy cream. This combination results in a rich and savory sauce that is poured over the chicken. Here’s how to make it!
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
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional)
Directions
- Using a sharp knife, carefully fillet each chicken breast into two thinner cutlets or use thin-cut chicken breasts.
- Season each breast with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Sprinkle the flour over both sides of the chicken breasts and rub it in until evenly coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and 1 Tbsp of butter.
- Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and keep warm.
- Peel and smash the garlic cloves. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and sauté the garlic until lightly browned, about 3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, add garlic powder, stir and scrape up any brown bits. Simmer the sauce for 8-10 minutes until reduced. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over it, and heat through.
- Serve with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken
Creamy Garlic Chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with fluffy rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. Steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, make a great addition to round out the meal. A fresh salad can also be a nice side to complement the richness of the dish.
How to Store Creamy Garlic Chicken
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat gently in a skillet on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Avoid reheating too quickly to prevent the sauce from separating.
Tips to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken
- To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce after sautéing the garlic.
- If you love garlic, feel free to add more cloves.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to remain juicy and tender.
Variation
For a twist, you can add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp or even a plant-based protein for a different take.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw them before cooking for even cooking.
What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter, though the sauce may be less rich.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time. Just reheat them together when you’re ready to serve.
Creamy Garlic Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Using a sharp knife, carefully fillet each chicken breast into two thinner cutlets or use thin-cut chicken breasts.
- Season each breast with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Sprinkle the flour over both sides of the chicken breasts and rub it in until evenly coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and 1 Tbsp of butter.
- Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, peel and smash the garlic cloves, add the remaining butter, and sauté the garlic until lightly browned, about 3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, add garlic powder, stir and scrape up any brown bits. Simmer the sauce for 8-10 minutes until reduced. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over it, and heat through.
- Serve with fresh chopped parsley if desired.