What is the recipe for Creamy Garlic Chicken? Is it the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, like a big hug on an chilly evening? I remember my grandma used to make something similar, but hers was always a bit dry. This version? Is this pure creamy garlicky perfection? Is chicken Alfredo the same as chicken patty? What are some comforting food recipes that don’t require hours of cooking? In the kitchen, you’ve come to the right place. What is a weeknight wonder recipe for Creamy Garlic Chicken?
What is Creamy Garlic Chicken?
What is Creamy Garlic Chicken? In a creamy Cream Sauce, tender chicken is served. What is pan sauce? Think of it as a simplified, quicker version of chicken Alfredo, but with more pronounced garlic. What is the magic of perfectly seared chicken? It’s simple comfort food elevated by the quality of the ingredients and the technique – but don’t overdo it. Is it easy to master? I don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I like to cook. This is my go-to recipe. What is a one pan wonder that’s sure to become cherished by family and friends?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I even begin? This Creamy Garlic Chicken is a weeknight champion for so many reasons. First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world! The garlic-infused cream sauce is so rich and savory, coating every piece of chicken in deliciousness. It’s the kind of flavor that makes you want to lick your plate clean (and trust me, I’ve definitely done that!). But beyond the taste, the simplicity of this recipe is what truly makes it shine. I can whip this up in under 30 minutes, which is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when I’m juggling work, kids, and everything else life throws my way. What I love most is that it uses ingredients I almost always have on hand. chicken breasts, garlic, cream – these are staples in my kitchen. And let’s talk cost-efficiency. This recipe is surprisingly budget-friendly. Chicken breasts are relatively inexpensive, and the rest of the ingredients are pantry staples. Plus, you can easily stretch this meal by serving it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. It’s incredibly versatile too! You can customize it with different herbs, spices, or vegetables to suit your taste. Add some spinach for extra greens, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Honestly, I think it’s even better than some of the restaurant versions I’ve tried!
How do I make creamy garlic chicken?
Quick Overview
How do I make Creamy Garlic Chicken? How do I cook chicken breasts? Locks in all the juices. How do you make a creamy garlic sauce in the same pan? How do you create layers of flavor in chicken? The chicken is cooked through, resulting in tender, flavorful pieces that are tender and tender. are bathed in creamy goodness. Is it all done in One Pan? This is a recipe you’ll be making again and again.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: I prefer using chicken breasts that are about the same size, so they cook evenly. Is this a good idea? If they’re particularly thick, you can pound them lightly to an even thickness.
* 1 tablespoon olive oil: Use good quality olive oils for the best flavor. Can you use avocado oil?
* 1 teaspoon salt: I use sea salt, but any kind of salt will work.
* 12 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground pepper is always best for a more pronounced flavor.
* 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness and color to the chicken.
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder: I know we’re already using fresh garlic, but a little garlic powder enhances the flavor even more!
What is the recipe for Creamy Garlic Sauce?
* 4 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly mince the garlic is essential for that intense garlic flavor. I’ve tried using pre-minced garlic in a jar, but it just doesn’t compare.
* 1 cup chicken broth: Use low-sodium, so you can control the saltiness of the sauce.
* 1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce so rich and creamy. I’ve experimented with using half-and-half, but it doesn’t thicken as well.
* 14 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan is always best.
* 2 tablespoons butter: This adds richness and helps to create a glossy sauce. I use unsalted butter.
* 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of freshness and color to the dish. If you don’t have fresh parsley on hand, you can use dried it.
* Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
How do I follow
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This is important for getting a good sear. In a bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Add the dry ingredients and stir to combine. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, pressing lightly to help it stick. Set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
How do you heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat? When the oil starts shimmering, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet, making sure not to overcook. If you want to cook a whole chicken, remove all the fat. Can overcrowd the pan? Is it safe to cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side? The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce
How do you add butter to a skillet? Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. What are the best ways to cook garlic? If you have a large skillet, pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits. What is the best way to add flavor to a sauce? Bring the broth to a boil and let it cook for ten minutes, until slightly reduced.
Step 4: Add the Cream and Parmesan
Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese and continue to simmer for another minute, or until the cheese is melted. Serve warm or cold. How do I make a creamy sauce?
Step 5: Simmer the Chicken in Sauce
When the chicken is done, place it in a large skillet and add the garlic. Spoon the sauce over the chicken to coat. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. When the sauce is heated through, it will thicken to your desired consistency.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the parsley. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the Creamy Garlic Chicken immediately, spooning the sauce over the chicken and garnishing with a few chopped onions. If desired, add parsley if desired.
5. What to Serve It With
What should I serve it with?
Creamy Garlic Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. What are some good ideas for a new blog?
What is a classic dinner?Serve it over a bed of linguine or fettuccine pasta. How does garlic sauce work with pasta? A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette adds to the flavor.
For a Low-Carb Option:Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. What are some good ways to enjoy the flavors of a dish without the added carbs? What are some good Side Dishes to serve with chicken?
What is a comfort food meal?Serve with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta. The richness of the sauce pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of potatoes or polenta. A side of steamed broccoli or peas adds a pop of color and nutrients.
What are some quick and easy meals to prepare?Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce. A simple salad or some steamed vegetables completes the meal.
Growing up, we always had a big loaf of Italian bread alongside anything with creamy sauce. What will you eat to soak up every last bit of that deliciousness?
How do I make Creamy Garlic Chicken?
What are some tips for making Creamy Garlic Chicken?
Pound the chicken breasts: If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, pounding them to an even thickness will help them cook more evenly and quickly. I usually place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a rolling pin or meat mallet to gently flatten them.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: When searing the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will lower the temperature of the oil and prevent the chicken from browning properly. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for that intense garlic flavor. I’ve tried using pre-minced garlic in a jar, but it just doesn’t compare. The flavor is much more vibrant and aromatic when you use fresh garlic.
Don’t burn the garlic: Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing it in the butter. Burnt garlic will become bitter and ruin the flavor of the sauce. Cook it over medium heat for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful to watch it closely.
Adjust the sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or cream to thin it out. If it’s too thin, you can let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce it. Remember it will thicken a bit more off the heat.
Add a touch of lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end adds a bright, tangy flavor that complements the richness of the sauce. I usually add about a tablespoon of lemon juice.
Experiment with herbs and spices: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the dish. Some other great additions include dried oregano, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes, or a pinch of nutmeg.
One time, I accidentally added a little too much red pepper flakes and it was way too spicy for my kids! Now I keep a close eye on the spice cabinet.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving this out at room temperature for more than two hours, especially if it’s warm. Bacteria love cream sauces! If you’re serving it buffet-style, keep it warm in a Slow Cooker or chafing dish.
Refrigerator Storage: This Creamy Garlic Chicken keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. I usually use a glass container with a tight-fitting lid. Make sure it’s fully cooled down before putting it in the fridge.
Freezer Instructions: While you *can* freeze it, the texture of the cream sauce might change a bit. It can become a little grainy after thawing. If you do freeze it, I recommend using a freezer-safe container and thawing it in the refrigerator overnight. It should be good for up to 2-3 months.
Glaze Timing Advice: This recipe doesn’t have a glaze, but if you were adding fresh herbs as a garnish (like parsley), I would definitely add them right before serving, not before storing. They’ll wilt and lose their flavor.
When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. You can reheat it in the microwave, in a skillet over medium heat, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Just be sure to stir it occasionally to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for company. I hope you love it as much as my family does. If you’re looking for other easy chicken recipes, be sure to check out my Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken or my One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies. Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to see how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments if you try it, and don’t forget to rate the recipe!
Creamy Garlic Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 4 cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 0.5 cup Chicken broth
- 0.25 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper To taste
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley Chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately over pasta or rice.
