Creamy Garlic Chicken

If you’re looking for a dinner that feels like a warm hug, then this Creamy Garlic Chicken is just the recipe for you. It’s one of those dishes that not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart. The rich, flavorful gravy envelops tender chicken breasts and caramelized garlic cloves, making every bite a delicious adventure. Whether you’re facing a busy weeknight or hosting a family gathering, this dish will shine on your table.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and one skillet, you’ll have a gourmet meal ready in under an hour. Trust me; once you try this creamy delight, it will quickly become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This dish comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time!
• One-pan wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup—yay!
• Flavor-packed: With caramelized garlic and rich gravy, each bite is bursting with taste.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting meal.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create our Creamy Garlic Chicken. You probably have most of these in your kitchen already! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt/Pepper
• 3 teaspoons Italian seasonings

For the Gravy

• 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

For Creaminess

• 3 tablespoons flour
• ½ cup heavy cream
• (Optional) ½ cup Parmesan cheese

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Stir in some spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes can give it an extra kick!
• Cream alternatives: Use coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasonings. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken. Searing until golden brown on both sides locks in moisture and gives the dish a beautiful color. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Then, set them aside on a plate while we create our luscious gravy.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add butter and whole garlic cloves. Sauté them gently until they turn golden brown and fragrant—this step brings out their sweetness and adds depth to our sauce. Don’t rush this process; those caramelized bits are where the magic happens!

Step 3: Make the Gravy

Sprinkle flour over the sautéed garlic and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth along with the beef bouillon cube and soy sauce. This mixture will thicken beautifully into a savory gravy that hugs every piece of chicken.

Step 4: Add Creaminess

Stir in heavy cream along with additional Parmesan if you’re using it. Let it simmer gently while you return the chicken to the pan. Allow everything to cook together until heated through; this melds all those wonderful flavors into one delicious dish.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Once everything is well combined, serve your Creamy Garlic Chicken over rice or pasta if desired. Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of color and flavor. Enjoy every bite knowing you’ve created something truly special!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Garlic Chicken

Cooking can feel daunting sometimes, but with these pro tips, you’ll be whipping up this delicious dish like a seasoned chef in no time!

• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide a depth of flavor that pre-minced options simply can’t match. Plus, caramelizing them enhances their sweetness, creating a beautiful balance in the sauce.

• Don’t Rush the Cooking Process: Take your time browning the chicken and garlic. This step creates layers of flavor that really elevate the dish. A little patience goes a long way!

• Adjust Thickness to Your Liking: If you prefer a thicker gravy, let it simmer longer after adding the cream. Conversely, if you want a lighter sauce, you can add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.

• Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan adds a lovely nutty flavor, feel free to substitute with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version! This gives you flexibility based on what you have at home.

• Make it Ahead: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just store portions in airtight containers and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken

Serving your Creamy Garlic Chicken is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful accompaniments that bring out its flavors.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also provides a fresh herbaceous note that brightens up the rich gravy.
• Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest can enhance the flavors even further by adding a pop of brightness that balances the creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that complements the rich sauce beautifully. They soak up every bit of that delicious gravy!

• Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and roasted asparagus adds a nice crunch and fresh taste to your plate, balancing out the creamy chicken nicely.

• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli brings vibrant color and a healthy element to your meal while providing a satisfying contrast to the creamy sauce.

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette offers a light and wholesome side that pairs beautifully with the hearty chicken.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, your Creamy Garlic Chicken will not only taste incredible but also look stunning on your dinner table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you want to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal without the fuss.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the Creamy Garlic Chicken cool completely.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you with your Creamy Garlic Chicken experience!

Can I use other types of chicken for this Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe?

Yes! You can use chicken thighs or even diced chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything cooks through properly.

How can I make my Creamy Garlic Chicken healthier?

You can reduce the amount of butter and cream used in this recipe. Alternatively, consider using low-fat cream or a plant-based option if you want a lighter version.

What sides pair well with Creamy Garlic Chicken?

This dish goes wonderfully with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. The rich sauce complements many sides beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Creamy Garlic Chicken! Its rich flavors and easy preparation make it a standout dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience—happy cooking!

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