If you’re on a quest for a savory dinner that hits all the right notes, look no further than the creamy garlic chicken recipe. This delectable dish brings together tender chicken breast, aromatic garlic, and a luscious cream sauce, promising a meal that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. Perfect for a busy weekday yet indulgent enough for a weekend feast, it’s the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire.
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Growing up, my mom’s kitchen was always filled with the aromatic smells of home-cooked meals, but her garlic chicken stood out as a family favorite. It wasn’t just the creamy richness that made it special; it was the way each dinner around the table seemed to bring out laughter and joy. I vividly remember the Sunday afternoons spent watching her crush fresh garlic cloves, infusing the house with a comforting scent. Recreating this dish brings back those cherished memories, enriching our own family dinners now.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a stand-out because it’s incredibly versatile and packed with flavor. The combination of garlic and cream creates a sauce that’s deeply comforting and can easily be paired with pasta, rice, or vegetables. It’s a one-pan dish, which means less cleaning and more time to enjoy with your loved ones. Thanks to its simple ingredient list, it’s both budget-friendly and achievable for cooks at any skill level.
Ingredients Notes
The key to this dish is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. For the chicken, opt for organic or free-range breasts for the best flavor. Fresh garlic is essential; pre-minced garlic lacks the punch needed for this recipe. If you’re out of heavy cream, a blend of milk and butter can work as a substitute. To add a nutritional boost, consider incorporating spinach or kale towards the end of the cooking process.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper generously on both sides. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken for 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add fresh minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 3
Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom with a wooden spoon. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4
Add the heavy cream to the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Return the chicken to the skillet, and let it cook in the sauce for an additional 10 minutes or until fully cooked through.
Step 5
Finish by stirring in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted, and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve immediately for the best flavor experience.
Storage Options
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If freezing, store the chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations & Substitutions
For a lighter version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream, which adds a subtle sweetness. Vegetarians can replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu. To incorporate different flavors, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms to the sauce for an extra dimension.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy garlic chicken pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine. Serve it over a bed of al dente fettuccine or with a side of buttery mashed potatoes. It’s also great with a fresh, leafy green salad or crispy roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this dish be made dairy-free? Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free alternative. This will alter the taste slightly, giving it a unique, delicious flavor.
What other herbs can I use for this recipe? While parsley pairs beautifully here, you can experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fresh twist. Adding freshly chopped basil or dill can also create a beautiful aroma and flavor different from the original.
Is it possible to use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely. Chicken thighs offer a juicier alternative as they contain more fat. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked, making them just as tender and flavorful as breasts.
Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken: 5 Secrets to Perfect Flavor Every Time!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs trimmed of excess fat
- 1 cup all-purpose flour for coating
- 0.5 cup grated mozzarella divided
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or as needed
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste salt and pepper
Garlic Cream Sauce
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 1 head garlic minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk whole or 2%
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Dredge each chicken thigh in flour, shaking off excess.
Cooking the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side.
- Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and keep warm.
Making the Cream Sauce
- Reduce heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add milk, whisking to remove any lumps.
- Stir in dried basil, simmering until thickened.
- Add heavy cream and remaining mozzarella, stirring until melted and smooth.
Finishing Touches
- Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce.
- Simmer over low heat, covered, for about 10 minutes to blend flavors.
- Serve with sauce spooned over the chicken.
