Creamy Garlic Chicken

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and a rich, savory gravy in one easy-to-make skillet. Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests, this recipe highlights the amazing flavor of caramelized garlic. With its creamy texture and aromatic seasoning, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe can be made in just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cook everything in a single skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and Parmesan cheese creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with pasta, rice, or veggies for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with flavor yet simple enough for even picky eaters to enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Creamy Garlic Chicken, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and helps achieve that beautiful golden color on the chicken.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for balanced flavors in your creamy sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your skillet and perfect for scraping up those flavorful bits.

Ingredients

To prepare 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 Gravy

• 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 the Garlic Sauce

• 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 the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasonings on both sides.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts.
3. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

1. In the same skillet, add butter and whole garlic cloves.
2. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

1. Sprinkle flour over the garlic and stir to combine.
2. Gradually pour in chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
3. Add beef bouillon cube, soy sauce, onion powder, thyme, and mustard powder. Stir well.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return cooked chicken to the skillet with gravy.
2. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in heavy cream and optional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Enjoy your homemade creamy garlic chicken paired with your favorite sides!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a casual weeknight dinner, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Pasta

• Fettuccine – Toss cooked fettuccine in the creamy sauce for a rich and satisfying dish.
• Penne – Add penne pasta to soak up the garlic gravy, creating a delicious one-pan meal.

Over Rice

• White Rice – Serve the chicken over fluffy white rice to absorb the flavorful gravy.
• Brown Rice – For a healthier option, brown rice provides a nutty flavor that complements the dish.

Accompanied by Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients, balancing the richness of the chicken.
• Roasted Asparagus – Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of asparagus, making it an elegant side.

With Bread

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce, garlic bread enhances the garlic flavor of the dish.
• Crusty Baguette – A slice of fresh baguette adds texture and is great for dipping into the gravy.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken

To achieve a truly perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken, consider these helpful tips that will enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Garlic – Fresh garlic gives a more robust flavor compared to pre-minced options.
• Sear Chicken Properly – Searing until golden brown creates a delicious crust and locks in moisture.
• Control Heat Levels – Cook on medium heat to prevent burning while allowing flavors to meld together.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking keeps it juicy and tender.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Garlic Chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic match perfectly with this chicken dish.
2. Caesar Salad – A crisp Caesar salad provides freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the sauce.
3. Green Beans Almondine – Lightly sautéed green beans topped with almonds add flavor and texture contrast.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with herbs can be a refreshing side that complements the hearty chicken.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a splash of color and sweetness, making it a delightful addition.
6. Baked Zucchini Fries – Crispy zucchini fries offer a fun twist that kids will love while also being healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make simple errors when preparing Creamy Garlic Chicken that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavor. Always use salt and pepper generously before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for perfect juiciness.
• Ignoring the garlic: Burning garlic can ruin the dish’s flavor. Add garlic towards the end of cooking to caramelize it perfectly without burning.
• Not letting the sauce thicken: If you rush the sauce, it may remain runny. Allow it to simmer until it reaches a creamy consistency for better texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Creamy Garlic Chicken

• Place cooled Creamy Garlic Chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Garlic Chicken?

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delicious dish made with chicken breasts simmered in a rich garlic-flavored cream sauce. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners.

How do I customize Creamy Garlic Chicken?

You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or using different herbs such as rosemary or basil for varied flavors.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results and proper seasoning absorption.

What sides pair well with Creamy Garlic Chicken?

Creamy Garlic Chicken pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. A side salad also complements this dish nicely.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and omit Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version of Creamy Garlic Chicken.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Chicken is an appealing dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. Its versatility allows you to adapt it based on your taste preferences or what ingredients you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and make it your own!