As I stood over the simmering skillet, aromas rushed to my nose like an old friend. It was garlic, of course—my kitchen’s best companion—along with a splash of creamy goodness that promised to turn an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.
If you’ve ever longed for a dish that’s simple to prepare yet spectacular enough to impress, then you’re in for a treat. Welcome to the world of Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken!
What is Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken?
Let’s get straight to the point: Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken is a dream dinner. It features tender chicken breasts sautéed in buttery garlic sauce, with the added richness of heavy cream.
You’d think a dish like this is reserved for fancy restaurants, but I assure you, it’s a breeze to whip up at home. Trust me; once you learn how to make this, it will be your go-to recipe for any weeknight or special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken
Several factors contribute to the appeal of this dish. First and foremost, it’s so simple to create. You can have a satisfying meal on the table in about 30 minutes. Second, the flavors are phenomenal.
The garlic is bold, the cream is rich, and the chicken is perfectly cooked. It’s the type of dish that makes your kitchen smell divine, coaxing everyone to gather around the table.
Moreover, the versatility of this recipe is something to cherish. You can customize it based on what your family enjoys, or even what you have on hand. Whether you want to keep it classic or get a bit adventurous, this recipe opens the door to endless possibilities.
The Ingredients
Alright, let’s dive deeper into what makes this dish tick. Here’s a list of what you’re going to need:
- 1 whole head of garlic, cloves peeled: Enough to infuse robust flavor.
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of our show, lean and ready to absorb all that garlicky goodness.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for bringing out the flavors.
- Flour, for dredging: A light coating for that desirable golden crust.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A healthful fat for cooking the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: For richness.
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth or stock: Adds depth to the sauce without being too salty.
- ½ teaspoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens up the dish, balancing the creaminess.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder: Because more garlic is never a bad idea.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: The key to our creamy sauce.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): A touch of color and freshness at the end.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a layer of flavor that makes this dish stand out.
Gather all these ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the cooking process. Follow along carefully, and soon you’ll be savoring your very own Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. It’s amazing what a little seasoning can do! Once you’ve done that, lightly dredge the breasts in flour. Shake off any excess. This step creates a lovely golden crust on the chicken.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add the peeled garlic cloves. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown. Be cautious—burnt garlic is bitter! When done, remove the garlic from the skillet and set it aside; we’ll use it later.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In that same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Carefully add in the chicken breasts. Cook for about 6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and let it rest.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low and add the chicken broth to the skillet. Scrape any bits off the bottom; this is where the flavor lives! Add the garlic cloves back to the skillet. Stir to blend. Next, add lemon juice, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard. Give it a good stir to mix.
Step 5: Create Creamy Goodness
Now, it’s time for the star of the show—the heavy cream. Pour it into the skillet and stir until everything is well combined. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Finally, add the remaining butter and stir until melted and incorporated.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the chicken to the skillet, letting it bathe in that delightful sauce. Allow everything to simmer together for about 2-3 minutes. This helps meld the flavors beautifully. Serve it with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for that touch of elegance.
Tips & Tricks
Before you sprint into the kitchen, here are some handy tips to make this dish even better.
- Use Fresh Garlic: It makes a significant difference in flavor. Fresh is always best.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on it to prevent drying out. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Substitute Cream Wisely: If you want to lighten things up, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half. Just be aware of the thickness!
- Enhance the Flavor Further: A splash of white wine can elevate the taste dramatically. Just let it cook off before adding cream.
- Garnish Beautifully: Fresh herbs really make the dish pop visually and add a burst of flavor.
Nutrition Information
It’s always a good idea to know what you’re eating. Here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving of Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken (without sides):
- Calories: 490
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
Keep in mind; these values can vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.
Can I Store Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken?
Congratulations! If you find yourself with leftovers, you can definitely store this dish. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will last for 3-4 days.
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream as needed to restore its lusciousness.
What Can I Serve with Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken?
You’d be remiss not to think about sides. This dish pairs beautifully with various accompaniments:
- Over Pasta: Toss the chicken and sauce with fettuccine or any pasta you prefer.
- With Rice: A bed of fluffy rice soaks up the creamy sauce like a sponge.
- Sautéed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus sautéed in olive oil complement the dish perfectly.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes are a classic pairing that never disappoints.
- Crusty Bread: A loaf of fresh bread for dipping into that sauce will win hearts at the table.
Variations
If you’re like me, variety is the spice of life. Here are some options to shake things up:
- Lemon Garlic Chicken: Add extra lemon zest for a refreshing citrus twist. The brightness changes the entire dish.
- Mushroom Cream Chicken: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms. They add an earthy depth and pair well with garlic.
- Spinach and Garlic Chicken: Mix in some fresh spinach at the end for added color and nutrition.
- Cheesy Garlic Chicken: Stir in parmesan cheese for an even creamier finish. Cheese lovers, rejoice!
- Spicy Garlic Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who crave a kick.
Conclusion
There you have it, my journey through creating a wholesome, satisfying dish—Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken! Not only is this meal straightforward, but it also opens up a plethora of options for personal touches and twists. Every time I make it, I am reminded of how delicious cooking can be.
Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this recipe fits the bill. So get in that kitchen, channel your inner chef, and serve up some love! Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
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- Chicken and Wild Rice Copycat Recipe
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Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals
Description
As I stood over the simmering skillet, aromas rushed to my nose like an old friend. It was garlic, of course—my kitchen's best companion—along with a splash of creamy goodness that promised to turn an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
-
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. It’s amazing what a little seasoning can do! Once you’ve done that, lightly dredge the breasts in flour. Shake off any excess. This step creates a lovely golden crust on the chicken.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
-
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add the peeled garlic cloves. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown. Be cautious—burnt garlic is bitter! When done, remove the garlic from the skillet and set it aside; we’ll use it later.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
-
In that same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Carefully add in the chicken breasts. Cook for about 6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and let it rest.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
-
Lower the heat to medium-low and add the chicken broth to the skillet. Scrape any bits off the bottom; this is where the flavor lives! Add the garlic cloves back to the skillet. Stir to blend. Next, add lemon juice, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard. Give it a good stir to mix.
Step 5: Create Creamy Goodness
-
Now, it's time for the star of the show—the heavy cream. Pour it into the skillet and stir until everything is well combined. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Finally, add the remaining butter and stir until melted and incorporated.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
-
Return the chicken to the skillet, letting it bathe in that delightful sauce. Allow everything to simmer together for about 2-3 minutes. This helps meld the flavors beautifully. Serve it with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for that touch of elegance.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 490kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 35g54%
- Total Carbohydrate 4g2%
- Sugars 1g
- Protein 35g70%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Fresh Garlic: It makes a significant difference in flavor. Fresh is always best.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on it to prevent drying out. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Substitute Cream Wisely: If you want to lighten things up, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half. Just be aware of the thickness!
- Enhance the Flavor Further: A splash of white wine can elevate the taste dramatically. Just let it cook off before adding cream.
- Garnish Beautifully: Fresh herbs really make the dish pop visually and add a burst of flavor.
