Creamy Garlic Chicken

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken breasts and a luscious, buttery garlic sauce. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is not only easy to follow but also results in a meal that’s rich in flavor and comfort. The caramelized garlic adds a gourmet touch, making it an impressive option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasonings creates a sauce that’s irresistible.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet distributes heat evenly, ensuring your chicken cooks perfectly while allowing the sauce to develop rich flavors.
• Measuring Cups/Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the right balance of flavors in this creamy sauce.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

To make this 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 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 (for thickening)
• 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-high heat.
3. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

1. In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt.
2. Add whole cloves of garlic; sauté until they are golden brown.
3. Remove half of the garlic cloves from the skillet and set them aside for garnishing later.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Sprinkle flour over the remaining garlic in the skillet; stir to combine.
2. Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth; add bouillon cube and soy sauce.
3. Stir in onion powder, thyme, mustard powder, and cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet.

Step 4: Finish with Cream

1. Reduce heat to low; stir in heavy cream and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
2. Allow to simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened slightly.
3. Return reserved garlic cloves to skillet before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful 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. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrients, balancing the richness of the creamy sauce.
• Sautéed Spinach – Quick sautéed spinach with garlic complements the flavors while providing a healthy option.
• Roasted Asparagus – Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness, making it an excellent side for this dish.

Over Rice or Pasta

• Fluffy White Rice – Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken over fluffy white rice to soak up the delicious gravy.
• Fettuccine Pasta – The creamy sauce clings beautifully to fettuccine, creating a comforting meal.
• Quinoa – For a healthier grain option, quinoa provides a nutty flavor and additional protein.

With Salads

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad offers crunchy romaine and creamy dressing that pairs well with the chicken.
• Garden Salad – A fresh garden salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken

To ensure your Creamy Garlic Chicken turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Garlic – Fresh garlic cloves caramelize better than pre-minced options, enhancing flavor.
• Don’t Rush Cooking – Allowing the chicken to cook thoroughly ensures it’s tender and juicy inside.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Thicken Sauce Gradually – If you want a thicker sauce, gradually add flour while stirring to avoid lumps.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Garlic Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a smooth and flavorful complement.
2. Baked Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes balances the savory chicken dish.
3. Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Roasted until crispy, Brussels sprouts provide texture and earthy flavors.
4. Rice Pilaf – Flavored rice pilaf, seasoned with herbs, enhances the overall taste experience.
5. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch, making it a refreshing addition to the meal.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob brings color and sweetness that pairs well with savory sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Garlic Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Bold seasoning – Skipping on seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you season the chicken well before cooking for a more flavorful dish.
• Bold garlic preparation – Ignoring the way garlic is prepared can alter its taste. Sauté garlic gently to prevent burning, which creates bitterness.
• Bold flour usage – Using too much or too little flour can affect the sauce’s thickness. Measure accurately for the creamy texture you desire.
• Bold cooking time – Overcooking or undercooking the chicken can ruin your dish. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Bold ingredient substitutions – Not substituting ingredients properly may compromise taste. Stick to the recommended alternatives for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for easy identification later.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Chicken

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F and heat covered for about 20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Creamy Garlic Chicken that you might find helpful.

What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken?

Creamy Garlic Chicken pairs well with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I make Creamy Garlic Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

How do I customize Creamy Garlic Chicken?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. You can also adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.

Is Creamy Garlic Chicken healthy?

This dish provides a good balance of protein and flavor while being relatively low in carbs depending on your sides. It’s hearty without being overly indulgent.

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal as they cook evenly and absorb flavors well. However, chicken thighs work great too if you prefer dark meat.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. With its rich gravy and caramelized garlic flavor, it’s perfect for any dinner table. Don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite ingredients or sides!