Creamy Garlic Chicken is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine tender chicken cutlets smothered in a rich, creamy garlic sauce that makes your taste buds dance. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The aroma that fills your home while this dish cooks is enough to bring everyone to the table, and trust me, they won’t be able to resist. What’s great about this recipe is that it’s easy enough for a novice cook yet impressive enough to serve to guests. With only a few ingredients, you’re just a short time away from a meal that’s sure to please. Let’s get cooking and turn a regular weeknight into something special with this delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken!
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken
- What is a Creamy Garlic Chicken
- Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken
- Preparing Creamy Garlic Chicken
- Cutting and Seasoning Chicken
- Searing the Chicken
- Cooking the Garlic
- Deglazing the Pan
- Creating the Creamy Sauce
- Serving Your Creamy Garlic Chicken
- Serving Suggestions
- Tips for Success
- Variations
- Storage Tips
- FAQs
- More Easy Lunch & Dinner ideas Recipes:
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken
First off, the flavor is absolutely irresistible! The creamy garlic sauce enhances the chicken beautifully, creating a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s quick and easy to put together, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Just a little prep and you’ll have dinner on the table in no time! And let’s not forget, this is comfort food at its finest. It warms the soul and is bound to please even the pickiest of eaters. Now, can you really ask for more from a dinner recipe?
What is a Creamy Garlic Chicken
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a dish that combines juicy chicken with a luscious garlic cream sauce. The flavor profile is rich, buttery, and boasts a delightful garlicky zing that elevates the dish. It’s no wonder this recipe has gained popularity across American households. This comforting meal embodies the heart of home-cooked goodness, making it a beloved choice in many homes.
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Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken
To create this flavor-packed dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Flour for dredging
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 whole head garlic, cloves peeled
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or stock
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- Chopped parsley (optional)
These simple ingredients come together to create a meal that feels like a restaurant experience right in your kitchen.
Preparing Creamy Garlic Chicken
Cutting and Seasoning Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four cutlets. This makes them cook more evenly and quickly. Season them generously with salt and pepper, covering all sides. Then, gently coat each cutlet in flour. The flour helps to create that lovely golden crust when you start cooking.
Searing the Chicken
Next, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken cutlets. This is where the magic happens! Sauté each piece for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. This step ensures the chicken stays juicy while the flavors develop in the next steps.
Cooking the Garlic
Now, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. After it melts, toss in the peeled garlic cloves. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re lightly browned. The smell of garlic wafting through your kitchen will make your mouth water!
Deglazing the Pan
To build on those flavors, carefully pour in the chicken broth, along with the lemon juice and garlic powder. Give it a good stir. Let the mixture bubble for about 4 minutes until it reduces slightly. This will release all those tasty bits from the bottom of the pan and enhance the sauce’s depth.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
Now, stir in the heavy cream, letting the sauce come together beautifully. It’s rich and luscious, perfect for our chicken. Return the chicken cutlets to the pan and let them soak in that goodness for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through. You can’t beat that creamy garlic aroma!
Serving Your Creamy Garlic Chicken
When it’s all done, feel free to garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. This makes it look extra special when served. Your Creamy Garlic Chicken is ready to impress!
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. You might want to consider serving it with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or twirl-able pasta to soak up that delicious sauce. For a balanced meal, add some steamed veggies or a crisp, fresh salad. The combination of comfort and freshness is sure to please.
Tips for Success
For best results, use a cast-iron skillet. Why? It distributes heat evenly, helping your chicken brown nicely. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan. Giving each cutlet space allows for better browning and prevents steaming.
Variations
Feel free to get creative! You can add fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor boost. If you’re looking for a different protein, shrimp or tofu can be fantastic alternatives. The base of the creamy garlic sauce works perfectly with these options.
Storage Tips
If you have any leftovers (though they might not last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheating on the stove or in the microwave will bring back that creamy goodness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw completely before cooking.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half or a vegan cream substitute are good alternatives; however, results may vary with each.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not with the flour used; however, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour alternative.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Kick it up a notch by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the chicken and sauce ahead, then reheat when ready to serve.
This Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe not only makes for a delightful weeknight meal but also encapsulates the warmth and comfort of home-cooked food. The creamy sauce, paired with tender chicken, creates a dish that’s simply irresistible. Enjoy sharing it with loved ones, and you may just find it becomes a staple in your kitchen!
More Easy Lunch & Dinner ideas Recipes:
- Cream Of Mushroom Chicken
- Slow Cooker Pork Chops and Potatoes
- Pioneer Woman Corned Beef Hash
- Breakfast Skillet
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Creamy Garlic Chicken
Creamy Garlic Chicken combines juicy chicken and a rich garlic sauce for a comforting meal. Perfectly easy to make, it elevates any weeknight dinner.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Flour for dredging
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 whole head garlic, cloves peeled
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or stock
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into cutlets and season with salt and pepper; coat in flour.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet. Sauté chicken cutlets for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove chicken and add remaining butter and garlic cloves to the skillet; sauté garlic until lightly browned.
- Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, lemon juice, and garlic powder; let bubble for 4 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and return chicken to the skillet; simmer for 5 minutes until sauce thickens and chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Notes
Use a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution.
Avoid overcrowding the skillet for better browning.
Can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or vegan alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 30
- Saturated Fat: 15
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 40
- Cholesterol: 120