Creamy Garlic Chicken

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy, garlicky sauce envelops tender chicken breasts, creating a comforting meal that is sure to impress family and friends. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a special gathering, this recipe shines with its rich flavors and simple preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 55 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of caramelized garlic and Parmesan cheese creates a savory sauce that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with pasta, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Gourmet Touch: Impress your guests with the elevated flavors of this restaurant-style dish made right at home.
• One-Skillet Meal: Enjoy easy cleanup with everything cooked in one skillet, saving you time and effort.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the essential tools to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning for the chicken, enhancing flavor.
• Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements of ingredients lead to consistent results every time you prepare this creamy dish.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing sauces to achieve a smooth consistency without lumps.

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
• 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

1. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasonings.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil.
3. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 6–7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

1. In the same skillet, add butter and whole garlic cloves.
2. Sauté until garlic is golden brown and fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

1. Stir in flour to form a roux with garlic butter.
2. Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth.
3. Add beef bouillon cube, soy sauce, onion powder, thyme, mustard powder, and allow it to simmer.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet and simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes.
2. Pour in heavy cream and mix well until combined.
3. If desired, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese over top before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy garlic chicken dish!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the creamy garlic chicken over fluffy white or brown rice for a comforting meal that soaks up the delicious gravy.

With Pasta

• Pair this dish with fettuccine or spaghetti to create a rich and satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Accompanied by Fresh Vegetables

• Serve with steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for a healthy, colorful addition that balances out the richness of the chicken.

With Crusty Bread

• Enjoy with slices of crusty bread to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce. Perfect for dipping!

As Part of a Salad

• Slice the chicken and place it on top of a fresh garden salad for added protein and flavor. Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken

To achieve the best version of your Creamy Garlic Chicken, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide a stronger flavor compared to pre-minced options, enhancing the overall taste.
• Brown the chicken well: Searing the chicken until golden brown adds depth to the flavor and creates a beautiful presentation.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor balance.
• Don’t rush the sauce: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps thicken it and intensifies the flavors, making it more delicious.
• Consider optional cheese: Adding more Parmesan cheese at the end gives an extra cheesy flavor that complements the creaminess.
• Let it rest before slicing: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking ensures it remains juicy when sliced.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Complement your Creamy Garlic Chicken with these delightful side dishes. Each option enhances your meal, making it even more satisfying.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a perfect pairing with rich sauces.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil and seasoned lightly brings freshness to your plate.
3. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice pairs well while soaking up all that creamy goodness.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs provides a hearty yet healthy side that complements the chicken beautifully.
5. Creamed Spinach: Rich and creamy spinach offers luxurious flavors that match well with garlic chicken.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds brightness and crunch, making each bite delightful alongside your main dish.
7. Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts add texture and a slightly nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with garlic.
8. Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs offers freshness without overpowering flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Garlic Chicken can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken before cooking can result in bland flavors. Always season generously with salt and pepper.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for perfect juiciness.
• Neglecting the garlic: Burning the garlic can make the dish bitter. Add it towards the end of cooking to achieve caramelization without bitterness.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold cream or broth can shock the sauce, causing it to separate. Bring them to room temperature before using.
• Ignoring the sauce consistency: A sauce that’s too thin won’t cling to the chicken. If this happens, whisk in a bit more flour or let it simmer longer.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Creamy Garlic Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Garlic Chicken:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, making them a great substitute for this recipe.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If your sauce is too thin, whisk in a bit more flour or let it cook down longer until it thickens to your liking.

Can I use other herbs in my Creamy Garlic Chicken?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add a fresh touch to your dish.

What should I serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken?

This dish pairs nicely with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different herbs or add vegetables for extra nutrition. Try this simple recipe that will surely impress family and friends!