Creamy Garlic Chicken

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting dish that’ll make your weeknight dinners feel a little more special, then you’ll absolutely love this Creamy Garlic Chicken. It’s one of those recipes that brings everyone to the table with its rich, savory aroma and creamy gravy. This dish is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating memories with family and friends, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy gathering.

What makes this recipe extra special is the caramelized garlic cloves that infuse every bite with deep flavor. Plus, it’s all made in one skillet, which means less cleanup for you! Trust me, once you try this creamy goodness, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip up this delightful dish in just under an hour, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and flavorful sauce, even the pickiest eaters at the table will be asking for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare this ahead of time and reheat it for a quick meal later in the week.
• Gourmet Flavor at Home: The caramelized garlic adds a touch of elegance that will impress your guests without requiring culinary expertise.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk ingredients! This Creamy Garlic Chicken uses simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt/Pepper
• 3 teaspoons Italian seasonings
• ⅓ cup flour

For the Sauce

• 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 Finishing Touches

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 10 whole cloves garlic
• 3 tablespoons flour
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or even tofu if you want a meat-free option.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika if you like a bit of heat.
• Change the cheese: If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, mozzarella or goat cheese would work beautifully too!

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasonings. This step is crucial as it builds flavor right from the start. Next, coat them lightly with flour — this will help create that lovely crust when searing.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Once hot, add your chicken breasts. Cook them until they’re golden brown on both sides—about 5-7 minutes per side. Searing locks in moisture and flavor, giving you perfectly juicy chicken.

Step 3: Caramelize the Garlic

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add butter and whole garlic cloves. Cook until they are golden brown and fragrant—this should take about 3 minutes. The caramelization process enhances their sweetness and adds depth to your sauce.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Sprinkle in flour while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Gradually pour in chicken broth while mixing well. Add in your bouillon cube or better than bouillon along with soy sauce, onion powder, thyme, and mustard powder. Let it simmer until thickened—this creates that luxurious gravy we all love!

Step 5: Finish Up

Return your chicken to the skillet along with any juices collected on the plate. Pour in heavy cream and stir until everything is combined beautifully. Finally, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top if desired, letting it melt into that creamy goodness.

Now serve your Creamy Garlic Chicken over rice or pasta for a delightful meal everyone will enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Garlic Chicken

Cooking can be a breeze with the right tips, and I’m here to share a few that will elevate your Creamy Garlic Chicken to new heights!

• Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for boneless skinless chicken breasts for even cooking and tender results. They absorb flavors beautifully and are easy to slice.
• Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning your chicken well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasonings. A well-seasoned chicken is key to developing layers of flavor in the dish.
• Don’t Rush the Garlic: Allow the garlic cloves to caramelize properly. This takes time but enhances their sweetness, creating a richer, more gourmet taste in your sauce.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs and high-quality chicken broth. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Consistency as Needed: If you find the sauce too thick after adding cream, simply whisk in a little extra broth until you reach your desired consistency. This ensures a luscious gravy that coats every bite!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken

Serving up your Creamy Garlic Chicken can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon Zest: Grating a bit of lemon zest over the top just before serving enhances the flavor profile with a zesty aroma.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with roasted garlic make a perfect base for this dish, soaking up all that delicious gravy.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli not only adds vibrant color but also balances the richness of the sauce with its crisp texture.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette offers a delightful contrast to the creamy chicken.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots seasoned with thyme provide an earthy sweetness that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

With these pro tips and serving suggestions, you’re set to impress at your next dinner! Enjoy every creamy bite of this delightful dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is not only a delight to prepare but also an excellent option for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for busy weeknights!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• To maintain flavor, consider adding a splash of chicken broth before sealing.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool before portioning it into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to avoid drying out.
• Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Garlic Chicken:

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This creamy garlic sauce works well with turkey or even plant-based alternatives. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on the meat used.

How can I make this Creamy Garlic Chicken dairy-free?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy milk alternative, and skip the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan option.

How do I ensure my Creamy Garlic Chicken isn’t dry?

To keep your chicken juicy, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) without exceeding that temperature.

Can I prepare Creamy Garlic Chicken in advance?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. Cook ahead and store in the fridge or freeze portions for later use.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Garlic Chicken! Its rich flavors and comforting sauce will surely be a hit at your dinner table. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!