Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 breasts boneless, skinless chicken (cut in half horizontally to make 4 steaks); 1 tsp salt; ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper; 1 tsp sweet paprika; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp dried thyme; ¼ cup plain (all-purpose) flour ((35 g)); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tbsp freshly minced garlic; ½ cup chicken stock ((125 ml)); 300 ml thickened (heavy) cream ((10 fl oz)); 1 tsp dijon mustard; ½ cup grated parmesan ((50 g)); sea salt flakes (to taste); freshly cracked black pepper (to taste); 1 tbsp finely chopped flat-leaf parsley; lemon wedges

Introduction to Creamy Garlic Chicken

Why is Creamy Garlic Chicken a Game Changer?

If you're looking for a quick yet decadent dinner option, creamy garlic chicken is where it's at. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, garlicky sauce that’s impressively easy to whip up. In less than 20 minutes, you'll have a satisfying meal ready to serve, making it ideal for busy evenings or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

What sets this recipe apart is its creamy sauce, infused with aromatic garlic and a touch of parmesan cheese. Not only does it elevate the dish, but it also pairs wonderfully with various sides, whether you choose fluffy mashed potatoes, al dente pasta, or a light salad. This versatility means you can adapt the recipe to fit any occasion or dietary preference.

The best part? It's crafted from simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. This means less stress on your grocery shopping and more time for enjoying your meal. So, if you’re ready to transform your weeknight dinners, let’s dive into this delightful creamy garlic chicken recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Check out more delicious chicken recipes here, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Chicken

For this creamy garlic chicken recipe, the foundation is freshly prepared chicken breasts. You’ll need:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved for quicker cooking and a better flavor absorption.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, sweet paprika, onion powder, and dried thyme for that aromatic experience.
A light coat of plain flour gives it a lovely golden crust when cooked. Don’t forget to heat things up with olive oil and unsalted butter to bring it all together.

Sauce

The sauce is where the magic happens! Grab these ingredients:

A bit more unsalted butter and a good amount of freshly minced garlic to create that irresistible aroma.
You’ll want chicken stock and heavy cream to make the sauce creamy and rich.
Adding Dijon mustard and grated parmesan takes the flavor to the next level. Season with sea salt flakes and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

To Serve

To plate up your dish beautifully, consider:

Mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or pasta as a hearty base.
Pair with steamed greens to add a pop of color and nutrition.
A sprinkle of finely chopped flat-leaf parsley adds freshness, and don’t forget a wedge of lemon for that tangy zing!

Feel free to check out more about the benefits of herbs in cooking from reputable culinary sources like The Spruce Eats for more inspiration! Enjoy bringing this delicious dish to life.

Step-by-step Preparation of Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creating a delicious plate of Creamy Garlic Chicken is simpler than you might think! With just a little prep and some straightforward steps, you’ll be serving up a dish that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive in!

Prepare the chicken

To start, you'll need to prep your chicken. Cut two boneless, skinless chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four chicken steaks. This not only helps them cook evenly but also makes for a better presentation on your plate. Give each piece a light pat with paper towels to ensure they're dry before cooking—this step helps achieve that lovely golden crust.

Coat the chicken with seasonings

Once your chicken is prepped, it’s time to add flavor! Season the chicken with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, sweet paprika, onion powder, and dried thyme. Then, for a delightful crunch, press each piece into plain flour, coating all sides. This will help create a delicious crust when you cook them.

Cook the chicken perfectly

Next, heat a combination of olive oil and unsalted butter in a large, deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the pan is nice and hot, add your seasoned chicken. Cook for about 5–6 minutes, turning them halfway through. You’re looking for that golden-brown color and for the chicken to be cooked through. If you’re unsure about doneness, using a meat thermometer can help; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Make the creamy garlic sauce

With the chicken cooked, it's time to whip up that creamy garlic sauce! In the same pan, add additional butter and let it melt before adding freshly minced garlic. Stir it for about 30 seconds—this will create that amazing aroma that everyone will love. Then, pour in chicken stock and let it cook for 1–2 minutes to reduce. After that, stir in thickened cream and Dijon mustard, and let it simmer for 2 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Combine chicken and sauce

Now is the moment you've been waiting for! Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir in grated parmesan. Season with sea salt flakes and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Allow the chicken to simmer for another 2–3 minutes to coat it in that luscious sauce and ensure it’s warmed all the way through.

Serve and enjoy!

Finally, it’s time to serve your Creamy Garlic Chicken! Pair it with your favorite sides—mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or pasta—and don’t forget some vibrant steamed greens for a pop of color. Sprinkle with freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley and add a wedge of lemon to squeeze on top for an extra zing. Enjoy every bite, knowing you’ve just created a restaurant-quality meal at home!

If you’re looking for side suggestions, steamed broccoli or a simple garden salad can complement the dish perfectly. Happy cooking!

Variations on Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken with Mushrooms

Elevate your creamy garlic chicken by adding sautéed mushrooms. Simply slice 1 cup of your favorite mushrooms, like cremini or button, and cook them in the pan after removing the chicken. The earthy flavors meld beautifully with the creamy sauce, making each bite more scrumptious. For an extra touch, consider a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary to enhance the dish's aroma.

Creamy Garlic Chicken with Spinach

For a wholesome twist, stir in a couple of handfuls of fresh spinach while making the sauce. The wilted greens add not only vibrant color but also valuable nutrients, creating a deliciously creamy garlic chicken that feels indulgent yet nutritious. Serve it over mashed potatoes or pasta for a comforting meal!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Choosing the right chicken

Selecting the best chicken is key to a delicious creamy garlic chicken dish. Opt for fresh, high-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts. If you have time, consider marinating the chicken in garlic and herbs for an hour or so—this adds depth to the flavor. A good tip is to pound the chicken to an even thickness; this ensures it cooks uniformly and remains juicy.

Achieving the perfect sauce consistency

The sauce is where your creamy garlic chicken can truly shine. To achieve that coveted creamy texture, adding the cream gradually is vital. If it thickens up too quickly, a splash of chicken stock or water will help you get the right consistency. Always taste the sauce after adding seasonings; adjusting salt and pepper will elevate your dish!

For more tips on making sauces, check out Serious Eats, where experts dive into the science of cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Ideal Side Dishes

When it comes to pairing with creamy garlic chicken, think about sides that balance its rich flavors. Classic choices include:

Mashed potatoes—smooth and creamy to soak up that luscious sauce.
Steamed rice—a neutral base that complements the dish beautifully.
Pasta—light and versatile, making it a perfect partner for a creamy sauce.

If you’re craving extra greens, adding steamed broccoli or green beans provides a fresh crunch to your meal.

Garnishes That Elevate the Dish

The right garnishes can transform your creamy garlic chicken into a stunning presentation. Consider:

Chopped parsley—a sprinkle adds freshness and vibrant color.
Lemon wedges—a squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors, cutting through the creaminess.

Not only do these elements enhance aesthetics, but they also elevate your dining experience. Give it a try and let your taste buds dance!

For more ideas on sides, check out this detailed guide on complementary dishes.

Time Breakdown for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Planning is crucial when you want to whip up a delicious meal like Creamy Garlic Chicken, and here’s how it breaks down:

Preparation time

Get started with just 10 minutes of prep work. This includes seasoning and coating your chicken to perfection.

Cooking time

The cooking itself takes only 10 minutes. You'll find that the chicken cooks quickly, and the creamy sauce comes together in no time at all.

Total time

All in all, you’ll have this delectable dish ready in just 20 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

For more tips on meal prepping or side dishes like mashed potatoes, keep scrolling!

Nutritional Facts for Creamy Garlic Chicken

When it comes to enjoying Creamy Garlic Chicken, it’s good to know what you’re getting. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional facts:

Calories

A serving of Creamy Garlic Chicken packs approximately 460 calories, making it a satisfying dish without going overboard.

Protein

This delicious meal provides about 35 grams of protein, perfect for fueling your busy lifestyle and keeping you feeling full.

Sodium

Keep an eye on sodium levels, as each serving contains around 800 mg, which is important for those monitoring their intake.

If you're interested in more nutritional insights or healthy adaptations, check out credible resources like the NutritionData or MyFitnessPal. Eating well can be both delicious and nutritious!

FAQs about Creamy Garlic Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chicken breasts for their tenderness and quick cooking time, you can definitely substitute chicken thighs. They add a rich flavor and remain juicy. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.

How can I make the sauce lighter?

If you're looking to lighten up the creamy garlic sauce, consider these options:

Use low-fat milk or milk alternatives instead of heavy cream.
Swap some of the cream for chicken broth to maintain a robust flavor with fewer calories.
Incorporate Greek yogurt for a tangy touch that adds creaminess without the calories.

Each choice can help you enjoy this delightful dish with fewer calories without compromising taste.

What are some good side dish pairings?

Creamy garlic chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Here are a few suggestions:

Steamed broccoli or asparagus: These greens complement the richness of the chicken.
Rice or quinoa: They soak up the delicious sauce nicely.
Mashed potatoes: A classic combo that’s always a hit.

For more ideas, check out this guide on perfect side dishes to enhance your meal!

Conclusion on Creamy Garlic Chicken

In just 20 minutes, you can elevate a simple dinner into an unforgettable meal with creamy garlic chicken. This dish not only delights the taste buds but also suits any occasion. Pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy restaurant-quality flavor from the comfort of your home!