Creamy Garlic Chicken

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends. The rich and flavorful gravy, combined with caramelized garlic cloves, elevates this simple recipe to gourmet status. Plus, it’s made in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Enjoy this comforting meal that brings delicious flavors to your table without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 55 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and Italian seasonings creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy this creamy chicken with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Reduce cleanup time by preparing everything in one pan.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or adapt the seasoning to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing this dish even simpler. Here are some essentials you’ll need to whip up your Creamy Garlic Chicken.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and allows you to create the rich gravy all in one pan.
• Knife: A sharp knife is essential for easily slicing through chicken and chopping garlic.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect flavor balance in your sauce.

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Ingredients

To make this delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

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

For the Garlic Sauce

• 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 piece of chicken in flour until coated evenly.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

1. In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt.
2. Add whole garlic cloves and sauté until they turn golden brown.
3. Sprinkle in flour, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until well combined.

Step 4: Add Liquids

1. Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps.
2. Crumble in the beef bouillon cube (or add better than bouillon), then stir in soy sauce, onion powder, dried thyme, and mustard powder.

Step 5: Return Chicken to Skillet

1. Place browned chicken back into the skillet with gravy.
2. Cover and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

Step 6: Finish Sauce with Cream

1. Stir in heavy cream and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
2. Let simmer for another 5 minutes until creamy and thickened.

Now you have a delightful dish of Creamy Garlic Chicken ready to be served! Enjoy it over rice or pasta for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Pasta

• Toss cooked pasta in the creamy garlic sauce for a hearty meal that blends rich flavors with a satisfying texture.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken on a bed of fluffy white or brown rice, allowing the gravy to soak into the grains and create a deliciously savory dish.

Accompanied by Vegetables

• Pair with sautéed vegetables like green beans or asparagus for a fresh and colorful plate that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

In Tacos

• Shred the chicken and use it as a filling for soft tortillas. Add avocado, cilantro, and lime for a fresh twist on tacos.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic sauce. Perfect for those who love to indulge in every last bit!

On a Salad

• Chop the chicken and add it to a mixed green salad drizzled with vinaigrette. The creamy garlic flavor adds depth to your salad.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Garlic Chicken, follow these helpful tips that ensure perfect flavor and texture every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will enhance the taste significantly compared to dried counterparts.

• Sear the chicken properly: Ensure you get a nice golden-brown color on your chicken breasts for added flavor before adding liquids.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook! Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasonings based on your preferences.

• Let it simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer will help develop deeper flavors and thicken the gravy nicely.

• Thicken as needed: If your sauce is too thin, mix an additional tablespoon of flour with water and stir it in until you reach desired thickness.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Garlic Chicken can enhance your meal’s overall profile. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the chicken’s sauce beautifully.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add crunch and their unique flavor contrasts well with the creamy dish.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the main course.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli offers vibrant color and health benefits while keeping the meal light.
5. Cauliflower Rice: Low-carb cauliflower rice is an excellent substitute for traditional rice while absorbing all those delicious flavors.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a seasonal touch that pairs well with rich sauces and adds sweetness to your plate.
7. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with savory dishes while adding fiber and vitamins.
8. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs makes for a light yet flavorful accompaniment that absorbs sauces well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Creamy Garlic Chicken. Here are some common pitfalls and how to sidestep them.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasonings before cooking.
• Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown the chicken can result in less flavor. Sear the chicken until golden brown for a more developed taste.
• Overcooking garlic: Burning garlic will make it bitter. Add it later in the cooking process or keep an eye on it to ensure it caramelizes without burning.
• Ignoring thickening agents: Forgetting to use flour or cornstarch can lead to a watery sauce. Make sure to add these ingredients gradually while whisking for a creamy consistency.
• Rushing the cooking time: Cooking too quickly may leave the chicken undercooked. Follow the recommended cook times to ensure juicy, tender chicken throughout.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Chicken

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat on low, stirring frequently until warmed through; add a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Creamy Garlic Chicken that might help you out!

What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken?

You can pair this dish with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I use different proteins for this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with turkey or even beef if you prefer.

How do I make Creamy Garlic Chicken healthier?

Consider using low-fat cream alternatives or reducing the amount of cheese for a lighter version.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to reheat and serve.

What is the best way to thicken my sauce?

Adding flour gradually while whisking helps create a smooth, creamy texture without clumps.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is not only rich and flavorful but also versatile enough for any dinner table. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Enjoy making this delightful dish!