Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Are you craving a comforting and delicious meal that's easy to prepare? Look no further! Our Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe is a perfect choice for a cozy dinner at home. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, garlicky cream sauce that’s sure to please everyone at the table.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 cup baby spinach


Preparation Steps

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy Garlic Chicken

  1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
  2. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  4. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Then add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
  6. Combine and Cook: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, reduce the heat, and let them simmer in the sauce for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

  • Ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking.
  • Do not boil the cream sauce; a gentle simmer is ideal to prevent curdling.

Cooking Techniques

Proper Cooking Techniques for Chicken

  • Searing: Searing the chicken breasts on high heat helps to lock in the juices and gives them a beautiful golden crust.
  • Simmering: Allowing the chicken to simmer in the sauce ensures it absorbs all the flavors while keeping it moist and tender.

How to Achieve the Best Sauce Consistency

  • To thicken the sauce, let it reduce by simmering it uncovered.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Best Sides to Pair with Creamy Garlic Chicken

  • Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with buttery mashed potatoes.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make a healthy and delicious side.
  • Rice or Pasta: Serve the chicken over a bed of rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.

Plating Ideas for a Beautiful Presentation

  • Place the chicken breast on a plate and spoon the creamy garlic sauce over it.
  • Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and a lemon wedge for a pop of color.

Nutritional Information

Caloric Content

  • A serving of creamy garlic chicken (without additional sides) contains approximately 400 calories.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Protein: High in protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: Garlic is rich in vitamins C and B6, as well as manganese.

Variations

Dairy-Free Option

  • Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

Low-Carb Alternative

  • Replace the chicken broth with bone broth and omit any add-ins like sun-dried tomatoes that may have added sugars.



Storage and Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftovers

  • Store any leftover creamy garlic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Best Ways to Reheat Without Losing Flavor

  • Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Pitfalls to Watch Out For

  • Overcooking the Chicken: This can make the chicken dry and tough.
  • Boiling the Cream Sauce: This can cause the sauce to curdle and separate.

How to Fix Common Issues

  • If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth.
  • If the chicken is overcooked, slice it thinly and let it simmer in the sauce for a few minutes to regain some moisture.   

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