Creamy Garlic Chicken

This Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings. The rich, flavorful gravy and caramelized garlic create a gourmet experience that’s deceptively easy to prepare in just one skillet. Whether served over rice or alongside mashed potatoes, this dish promises to impress and delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 55 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Less cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of caramelized garlic and creamy sauce delivers a depth of flavor that elevates simple chicken breasts.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve it with pasta, rice, or vegetables for a deliciously complete meal that suits any palate.
• Gourmet Appeal: Impress guests and family alike with the luxurious taste that feels fancy but is incredibly straightforward to create.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Creamy Garlic Chicken, gather a few essential tools that will help streamline your cooking process. Having the right equipment on hand can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good-quality skillet ensures even cooking and helps achieve that beautiful caramelization on your garlic.
• Wooden spoon: This tool is perfect for stirring without scratching your skillet surface while mixing ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is smothered in a rich and flavorful gravy that’s easy to make in a single skillet. Caramelized garlic cloves add the perfect balance of gourmet flavor.

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt/Pepper
• 3 teaspoons Italian seasonings
• ⅓ cup flour
• 4 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (shredded)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil

For the Gravy

• 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 Finishing Touches

• 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. Dredge each breast in flour, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and add chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
2. Add butter and allow it to melt.
3. Add whole garlic cloves; sauté until they turn golden brown, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Create the Gravy

1. Stir in the chicken broth, bouillon cube, soy sauce, onion powder, thyme, and mustard powder.
2. Bring mixture to a simmer while scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan.
3. Gradually whisk in additional flour until thickened.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return chicken breasts to the skillet with gravy.
2. Pour in heavy cream and sprinkle Parmesan cheese if using.
3. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your creamy garlic chicken over rice or mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal that everyone will love! Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a versatile dish that can be paired with various sides to enhance its rich flavors. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing, soaking up the savory gravy from the chicken.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken on a bed of fluffy rice, allowing the sauce to seep into the grains for added flavor.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans provide a fresh contrast to the creamy sauce.

On a Bed of Spinach

• Fresh spinach wilted in olive oil adds color and nutrition while complementing the dish’s richness.

In a Wrap

• For a fun twist, use leftovers in a wrap with fresh veggies and a drizzle of sauce for lunch.

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How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken

Making the perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will give you the best flavor compared to pre-minced options.
• Sear Chicken Properly: Searing the chicken until golden brown locks in moisture and adds depth to the dish.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook; feel free to add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
• Thicken Sauce Gradually: Add flour gradually and whisk well to avoid lumps in your creamy sauce.
• Let it Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps develop richer flavors, so don’t rush this step.
• Finish with Heavy Cream: Adding heavy cream at the end gives your dish that luscious texture everyone loves.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Garlic Chicken can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this flavorful main course.

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy loaf of garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the delicious sauce.
2. Roasted Asparagus: The slight bitterness of roasted asparagus balances out the creaminess of the dish.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing adds freshness and texture to your plate.
4. Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb option, cauliflower mash mimics mashed potatoes beautifully.
5. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts provide crunch and enhance the meal’s overall flavor profile.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast and brightens up your meal with its crunchiness.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs perfectly with creamy dishes, adding sweetness and color.
8. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the savory notes of Creamy Garlic Chicken wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls will enhance your Creamy Garlic Chicken experience. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always use salt and pepper generously before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
• Skipping the flour coating: Not dusting the chicken with flour can prevent that delightful golden crust. Make sure to coat each piece evenly for better results.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Using subpar garlic or broth can affect the dish’s overall taste. Opt for fresh garlic and quality chicken broth for a richer flavor.
• Neglecting timing for garlic: Adding garlic too early can result in burnt cloves, which taste bitter. Sauté garlic towards the end of cooking for a sweeter, aromatic flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The creamy garlic chicken will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Chicken

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Garlic Chicken:

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute turkey, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

What should I serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken?

This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To lighten up your creamy garlic chicken, consider using low-fat cream and reducing the amount of cheese used in the recipe.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep everything in advance and store it separately until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe is not only rich and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress! Give it a try and enjoy the delightful flavors!