If you’re looking for a dish that combines rich flavor with simple preparation, look no further than this creamy garlic chicken. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The succulent chicken breasts are cooked to perfection and enveloped in a luscious creamy garlic sauce that brings a delightful taste to your table. Not only does it take minimal time to prepare, but it also allows you to impress your guests without the fuss. Serve this dish over pasta or rice for a complete meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. In this article, you’ll find step-by-step instructions along with tips to make your cooking experience enjoyable and successful.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
- Heavy Cream: Use heavy cream for a luscious texture; it helps create that rich sauce
- Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt level in your dish
- Olive Oil: This will be used for cooking the chicken; extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients before starting. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in the skillet and sear each side until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes per side). Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Garlic
In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about one minute).
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth while stirring continuously. Add soy sauce, then allow everything to simmer gently until slightly thickened (about five minutes).
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet. Spoon some sauce over them and cook until heated through (about three minutes).
Step 6: Serve
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ingredients overnight
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken
This Creamy Garlic Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the creamy garlic sauce in advance. Simply cook the sauce, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to use, just cook the chicken, heat the sauce, and combine them.
- Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about three to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Just ensure that it is completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw any frozen portions overnight in the fridge. Then, heat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
FAQs for Creamy Garlic Chicken
What ingredients do I need for Creamy Garlic Chicken?
To prepare a delightful Creamy Garlic Chicken, you will need chicken breasts, garlic, heavy cream, chicken broth, and a blend of seasonings such as salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. You may also want to include fresh parsley for garnish. The quality of the ingredients greatly influences the final dish. Opt for fresh garlic instead of powdered garlic to achieve a robust flavor. Additionally, you can choose to use boneless skinless chicken thighs if you prefer a richer taste. This dish pairs well with pasta or rice, so consider having those ingredients ready as well.
How long does it take to make Creamy Garlic Chicken?
Making Creamy Garlic Chicken is relatively quick and straightforward. From prep to plate, you can expect the total time to be around 30 minutes. This includes about 10 minutes for prepping your ingredients and approximately 20 minutes for cooking. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts you use. Ensure that your chicken is cooked through by checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This makes it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner gatherings.
Can I make Creamy Garlic Chicken in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Creamy Garlic Chicken in advance! This dish actually benefits from being made ahead of time because the flavors have a chance to meld together. To do this, cook the dish according to the recipe instructions and then cool it completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stove over low heat until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help restore its creamy texture if it thickens too much.
What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken?
Creamy Garlic Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Popular options include buttered noodles or garlic mashed potatoes, which absorb the creamy sauce beautifully. For a lighter option, consider serving it alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for freshness and color. A simple side salad tossed with vinaigrette can also add some acidity to balance the dish’s richness. Don’t forget crusty bread; it’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce!
Is Creamy Garlic Chicken suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Creamy Garlic Chicken is an excellent choice for meal prep due to its versatility and flavor retention when stored properly. When preparing meals in advance, portion out individual servings into containers after cooking and cooling them down completely. Store them in the refrigerator or freezer based on your needs—just remember that if frozen, it’s best enjoyed within three months to maintain quality. Reheat thoroughly before serving. Meal prepping this dish ensures tasty lunches or dinners are always on hand.
Can I use low-fat alternatives in Creamy Garlic Chicken?
You can certainly use low-fat alternatives when making Creamy Garlic Chicken without sacrificing too much flavor or texture! Instead of heavy cream, consider using half-and-half or even Greek yogurt mixed with some broth to create a creamy consistency while reducing fat content. For a healthier protein option, skinless chicken breasts are an excellent choice as they are leaner than thighs. Just be aware that using low-fat ingredients may slightly alter the richness of the sauce but will still yield a delicious result.
Conclusion for Creamy Garlic Chicken
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delectable dish that brings comfort food to your table without excessive effort or time commitment. With just a few key ingredients like chicken breasts and garlic combined with rich creaminess, you create a meal that pleases everyone at the dinner table. The versatility of this dish allows pairing with various sides such as pasta or vegetables while also being suitable for meal prep scenarios. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner idea or planning ahead for lunches, this flavorful recipe offers convenience without compromising taste. Enjoy every bite of your homemade creamy delight!
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Creamy Garlic Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting meal. This recipe features tender chicken breasts bathed in a luscious creamy garlic sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is quick to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends. Serve it alongside pasta, rice, or fresh veggies for a complete meal that satisfies every palate.
Ingredients
– Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Fresh garlic
– Heavy cream
– Chicken broth (low-sodium)
– Olive oil
– Soy sauce (low-sodium)
Instructions
1. Prepare your ingredients by gathering everything you’ll need.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper; sear until golden brown (5-7 minutes per side). Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, lower the heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
4. Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth, adding soy sauce. Simmer until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).
5. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top, and cook until heated through (approximately 3 minutes).
6. Serve immediately on plates with extra sauce drizzled on top.
Notes
– Customize flavors by adding your favorite herbs or spices.
– For added richness, consider marinating the chicken overnight.
– This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 36g