Creamy Garlic Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a rich, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal, this recipe pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables. The sauce is creamy, garlicky, and absolutely irresistible!

Ingredients

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small ones)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra depth)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice large chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets.
2. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze.
4. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard.
5. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
2. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes to warm the chicken through.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Variations

• Mushroom Addition: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the sauce for extra texture and flavor.
• Spinach Version: Stir in 1 cup of fresh spinach towards the end for a healthier twist.
• Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to brighten the dish.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of pasta.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The sauce may not freeze well due to the cream content, but you can freeze the chicken separately for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and add extra juiciness to the dish.

What’s the best side dish for this recipe?

This dish pairs well with pasta, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can substitute coconut milk for the heavy cream and nutritional yeast for Parmesan cheese, though the flavor will change slightly.

How can I thicken the sauce more?

If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or stir in a small slurry of cornstarch and water.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce separately. Store them in the fridge and combine when ready to serve.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes! With minor adjustments, like reducing the Parmesan slightly, this dish fits well into a keto diet.

Can I add white wine to the sauce?

Absolutely! Deglaze the pan with 1/4 cup of dry white wine before adding the broth for an extra layer of flavor.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a mix of milk and a little butter can work as a substitute, though the sauce may be less creamy.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Make sure to keep the heat at medium and stir continuously when adding the cream to prevent separation.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delightful, quick, and comforting dish that’s sure to become a favorite. With its velvety garlic sauce and tender chicken, this meal is perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Try it with your favorite sides and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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