Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 breasts boneless, skinless chicken (about 1.3 lbs. total); 0.5 tsp Italian seasoning; 0.5 tsp salt; 0.25 tsp freshly cracked black pepper; 0.25 cup all-purpose flour; 2 Tbsp olive oil; 2 Tbsp butter (divided); 1 whole garlic bulb (about 8-9 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed); 1 cup chicken broth (see how to make chicken broth); 0.75 cup heavy cream; 0.5 tsp garlic powder; Salt and Pepper (to taste)

Introduction to Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

If you're on the hunt for a delicious meal that's quick to prepare, look no further than this creamy garlic chicken recipe. It brilliantly combines the rich flavors of garlic and cream with tender chicken, making it a standout choice for your weeknight dinner rotation.

Why Creamy Garlic Chicken is a Weeknight Favorite

Life can get busy, and sometimes you need a recipe that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also fits seamlessly into your schedule. That’s where creamy garlic chicken truly shines! In just 40 minutes, you can whip up this mouthwatering dish, serving up to four people without breaking the bank—each serving costs around $2.30!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With pantry staples like chicken broth, flour, and garlic, you won’t have to scramble to gather ingredients. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of sautéing garlic wafting through your kitchen (it might even have your neighbors peeking over the fence!).

So, whether you're entertaining guests or just looking for an easy meal to enjoy after a long day, this creamy garlic chicken is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the full recipe and get cooking!

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creating a delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s a full list to help you get started on this tantalizing recipe.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.3 lbs. total) – A lean protein choice that works wonderfully in this dish.
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning – Adds that herbaceous flavor.
½ teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper – For a subtle kick.
¼ cup all-purpose flour – Helps create a beautifully browned crust on the chicken.
2 tablespoon olive oil – The perfect cooking fat for sautéing.
2 tablespoon butter (divided) – Adds richness to the sauce.
1 whole garlic bulb (about 8-9 cloves) – Fresh garlic is a game-changer for flavor.
1 cup chicken broth – A savory base for the sauce. Check out how to make your own here.
¾ cup heavy cream – This is what makes it so creamy!
½ teaspoon garlic powder – For an extra burst of garlicky goodness.
Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust these to fit your personal preference.

With these ingredients, you'll be well on your way to whipping up an irresistible meal. Happy cooking!

Preparing Creamy Garlic Chicken

Fillet the chicken breasts

To start your creamy garlic chicken recipe, ensure your chicken breasts are ready for the spotlight. Using a sharp knife, carefully fillet each chicken breast into two thinner cutlets. This not only helps in cooking evenly but also creates that lovely golden crust that we all adore. If you prefer, you can skip this step altogether and use thin-cut chicken breasts if they are available at your local store.

Season and coat the chicken

Now that your chicken is filleted and primed, it’s time to add some flavor. Season each piece with Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Don't be shy here; this is where you build a foundation of taste! Next, sprinkle about ¼ cup of flour over both sides of the chicken pieces, rubbing it in until they’re evenly coated. This flour coating is key for creating that crispy exterior once cooked. For an extra flavor boost, feel free to add a touch of garlic powder or paprika to the flour, making your chicken even more delicious.

Cook the chicken to golden perfection

Heat a large skillet over medium heat, adding two tablespoons of olive oil along with one tablespoon of butter. Once your skillet is hot and bubbling, carefully lay the chicken in the pan. Cook each side for about 4 minutes or until they develop that beautiful golden-brown color. Each piece should be cooked through; you can check by cutting into the thickest part to ensure there’s no pink. After cooking, transfer the chicken to a clean plate and cover it to keep warm.

Smash and sauté the garlic

While your chicken is cooking, let’s give those garlic cloves some love. Peel a whole garlic bulb (about 8-9 cloves) and smash them using the broad side of your chef's knife—this releases the fragrant oils that will elevate your sauce. After removing the chicken, set the heat to medium-low and add the smashed garlic to the same skillet, accompanied by the remaining tablespoon of butter. Sauté for about 3 minutes or until the garlic is lightly browned and fragrant. This step not only enhances the flavor but also adds a rich aroma to your kitchen that will have everyone wandering in.

Create the creamy garlic sauce

Now, let’s transform your garlic and leftovers in the skillet into a velvety sauce. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and ¾ cup of heavy cream, followed by just a sprinkle of garlic powder to intensify the flavors. Stir thoroughly, scraping up those tantalizing brown bits from the skillet to incorporate all the flavors together. Let the sauce simmer for about 8-10 minutes until it thickens up nicely and that irresistible creamy texture starts to form. Tasting at this stage is crucial—don’t hesitate to add a pinch of salt and pepper to balance the flavors perfectly!

Combine chicken with the sauce

Finally, return the beautifully cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning that luscious creamy sauce over each piece. Allow everything to meld together for a couple of minutes until the chicken is heated through. For a pop of color and freshness, you might want to sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley on top before serving. Voilà! You've successfully prepared a creamy garlic chicken dish that is not only simple but utterly delightful. Enjoy with some pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce!

Variations on Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken with Mushrooms

For a rich and earthy twist, try adding mushrooms to your creamy garlic chicken recipe. Sauté sliced mushrooms alongside the garlic for about five minutes before introducing the broth and cream. The mushrooms soak up the garlic flavor beautifully, adding a savory depth to the dish. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies!

Creamy Garlic Chicken with Spinach

Looking to amp up your greens? Incorporate fresh spinach into your dish! Stir in a few handfuls of spinach just before returning the chicken to the skillet. Let it wilt down in the creamy sauce, creating a vibrant, nutrient-rich addition to this dish. It’s not just tasty but also a visual delight.

Experimenting with these variations can elevate your creamy garlic chicken experience and keep your meals exciting! You might also enjoy pairing this dish with roasted veggies or a light salad to balance the rich flavors.

Cooking tips for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Tips for perfecting your sauce

To create the ultimate creamy garlic chicken recipe, allow the sauce to simmer gently, reducing it gradually. This not only thickens the sauce but also intensifies the garlic flavor. Stir frequently and scrape up those delightful browned bits from the skillet—they're flavor gold! For an extra touch, you can sprinkle in a pinch of parmesan cheese for added richness.

How to avoid overcooking chicken

To keep your chicken tender and juicy, slice the breasts into thinner cutlets before cooking. This helps them cook evenly in just about 4 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F is your target. Remove the chicken just as it's fully cooked, and let it rest covered to retain moisture while you finish the sauce. For more chicken tips, check out this resource.

Serving suggestions for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Pairing ideas with sides and garnishes

Once you've whipped up this creamy garlic chicken, the right sides and garnishes can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some delightful ideas:

Vegetable Sides: Steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or roasted asparagus are excellent choices; they provide a fresh contrast to the rich sauce.
Starches: Serve your chicken over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta. Alternatively, a side of buttered noodles or wild rice will soak up every delicious drop of sauce!
Garnishes: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness. Consider adding a dash of lemon zest for a zesty twist.
Beverage Pairing: A sparkling water with lemon or a light herbal tea complements the garlic flavors beautifully.

Experiment with these pairings to find your perfect combination! For a full experience, consider checking out some seasonal vegetable recipes for more ideas.

Time breakdown for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Preparation time

Get ready to whip up your delicious meal in just 10 minutes. This is the time you'll spend prepping your ingredients—seasoning the chicken, smashing garlic, and getting everything ready to go.

Cooking time

Once you’ve prepped the ingredients, the cooking process will take about 30 minutes. This includes browning your chicken and simmering it in that luscious, creamy garlic sauce.

Total time

In just 40 minutes, from start to finish, you'll have a mouthwatering Creamy Garlic Chicken dish ready to impress yourself or guests! Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something easy yet delicious.

For more tips and personal experiences on this delightful recipe, check out our Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe.

Nutritional Facts for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Calories per serving

Each serving of this delightful creamy garlic chicken recipe packs approximately 518 calories. This makes it a satisfying option for dinner without overindulging.

Protein content

Looking to boost your protein intake? Dive into this recipe! It contains about 34 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the lean chicken breasts, which is perfect for muscle recovery and keeping you full.

Sodium details

For those monitoring sodium, this dish has around 741 milligrams per serving. It's essential to manage your intake, but you can always adjust the salt to suit your dietary needs while still enjoying this creamy goodness.

For more insights on nutritional values and healthy eating habits, check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central or Nutrition.gov.

FAQs about Creamy Garlic Chicken

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! The creamy garlic chicken recipe can be prepped ahead of time. You can cook the chicken and make the garlic sauce, allowing them to cool before storing them in the fridge. Simply reheat everything together in a skillet over low heat for a quick dinner that tastes freshly made.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of cornstarch to achieve a similar creaminess. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream or a nut-based cream. Just keep in mind that these will slightly alter the flavor of the dish.

How to store leftovers effectively?

To maintain freshness, store leftover creamy garlic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for 3-4 days. If you find yourself with extra sauce, freeze it in ice cube trays for later use, making it easy to add delicious flavor to future meals. You can learn more about proper food storage here.

Conclusion on Creamy Garlic Chicken

In summary, this creamy garlic chicken recipe is your go-to for a delicious weeknight dinner. With its simple ingredients and rich flavor, it's not only budget-friendly but also a delightful treat for your taste buds. Serve it alongside your favorite veggies or pasta, and enjoy every bite!