Perfectly cooked chicken in an easy, creamy garlic sauce, Creamy Garlic Chicken is on the table in less than 20 minutes! This dish is ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Its rich, velvety sauce paired with tender chicken makes it a family favorite, while the quick cooking time ensures you won’t spend hours in the kitchen. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes or steamed greens for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You can have this delicious meal ready in just 20 minutes.
- Flavorful Comfort Food: The creamy garlic sauce elevates the dish with rich flavors.
- Versatile Pairings: Serve it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required as everything cooks in one pan.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your Creamy Garlic Chicken, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large deep frying pan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Large deep frying pan: This allows ample space for searing chicken and creating the creamy sauce without spillage.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting chicken breasts easier and safer.
- Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for chopping ingredients.
Ingredients
Perfectly cooked chicken in an easy, creamy garlic sauce. Creamy Garlic Chicken is on the table in less than 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half horizontally to make 4 steaks
– 1 tsp salt
– ¼ tsp cracked black pepper
– 1 tsp sweet paprika
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– ¼ cup (35 g) plain (all-purpose flour)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tbsp freshly minced garlic
– ½ cup (125 ml) chicken stock
– 300 ml (10 fl oz) thick (double/heavy) cream
– 1 tsp dijon mustard
– ½ cup (50 g) grated parmesan
– Salt and cracked black pepper, to taste
– Mashed potatoes, steamed rice or pasta
– Steamed greens
– 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley
– Lemon wedges
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Sprinkle the chicken with salt, cracked black pepper, sweet paprika, onion powder, and dried thyme. Press each piece into the flour so that all sides are evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
Add the seasoned chicken to the pan.
Cook for 5–6 minutes until just cooked through, turning once halfway.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of butter for the sauce.
Once melted, add freshly minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Base
Add chicken stock to the pan; cook for 1–2 minutes until it has reduced by at least half.
Stir in thick cream and Dijon mustard.
Reduce heat to medium and simmer for about 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Stir through grated parmesan cheese; season to taste with salt and cracked black pepper.
Return chicken to the pan and warm through for another 2–3 minutes.
Step 6: Serve Your Dish
Serve your Creamy Garlic Chicken with your choice of mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or pasta.
Top with freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
With Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting base that absorbs the rich sauce, enhancing each bite.
Over Steamed Rice
- Fluffy steamed rice complements the creamy garlic sauce perfectly, making it a satisfying and filling option.
Accompanied by Pasta
- Serve the chicken over al dente pasta for a hearty dish that soaks up the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
On a Bed of Greens
- For a lighter option, serve the chicken on a bed of steamed greens such as spinach or broccoli, adding color and nutrition.
With Lemon Wedges
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the creamy sauce.
Paired with Crusty Bread
- A side of crusty bread is excellent for mopping up every last bit of creamy garlic goodness from your plate.
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken
To make sure your Creamy Garlic Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a more robust flavor than pre-minced alternatives, enhancing the dish’s overall taste.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink in the center to keep it tender and juicy.
Adjust Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer longer. Conversely, add a splash more chicken stock if it’s too thick.
Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add fresh herbs like thyme or basil for an aromatic boost that complements the creamy flavor.
Serve Immediately: This dish is best served hot straight from the pan, ensuring you enjoy its creamy texture at its finest.
Garnish Generously: Top your dish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness that brightens each plate.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Chicken
Pairing side dishes with Creamy Garlic Chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:
Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered with garlic butter adds crunch and flavor, perfect for dipping into the sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy balance to the richness of the chicken and add vibrant colors to your plate.
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up sauces well while keeping your meal light and healthy.
Green Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette offers freshness and cuts through the creaminess of the chicken dish.
Quinoa: Nutty quinoa is nutritious and pairs excellently with creamy sauces while providing additional protein.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a delightful contrast in flavor and texture, making it a fun addition to your meal.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes complements savory dishes beautifully while adding fiber to your meal.
Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach not only adds color but also contributes vitamins, balancing out the richness of Creamy Garlic Chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish, but it’s easy to make mistakes along the way. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can lead to dryness. Always monitor the cooking time and check for doneness.
- Not seasoning properly: Skipping spices or using too little can dull the flavor. Don’t hesitate to use salt and pepper generously before cooking.
- Skipping flour coating: Not coating the chicken in flour can lead to a less creamy sauce. Ensure each piece is evenly coated for optimal texture.
- Using low-quality cream: Subpar cream can affect the taste and consistency of your sauce. Opt for thick double cream for best results.
- Ignoring the simmering time: Rushing through the simmering process can prevent the sauce from thickening. Allow it to simmer adequately for a richer flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Make sure it cools down before sealing to avoid moisture build-up.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Chicken
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot evenly.
- Stovetop: Warm gently on low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about Creamy Garlic Chicken that might help you.
What is Creamy Garlic Chicken?
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish made with chicken breasts cooked in a rich garlic cream sauce, ready in just 20 minutes.
Can I customize my Creamy Garlic Chicken?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for variety.
How do I make my Creamy Garlic Chicken healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider using low-fat cream or yogurt and serving it with a side of steamed vegetables instead of carbs.
What sides pair well with Creamy Garlic Chicken?
This dish goes great with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or pasta, along with some fresh greens on the side.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Chicken is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients or serve it with your favorite sides. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s bound to become a family favorite!
Creamy Garlic Chicken
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delightful one-pan dish that brings rich flavors to your table in just 20 minutes. This recipe features succulent chicken breasts cooked to perfection in a velvety garlic cream sauce, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or intimate family dinners. The creamy sauce, infused with aromatic garlic and complemented by parmesan cheese, creates a comforting meal that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, Creamy Garlic Chicken is sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp cracked black pepper
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ¼ cup (35 g) plain (all-purpose flour)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp freshly minced garlic
- ½ cup (125 ml) chicken stock
- 300 ml (10 fl oz) thick (double/heavy) cream
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- ½ cup (50 g) grated parmesan
- Salt and cracked black pepper, to taste
- Mashed potatoes, steamed rice or pasta
- Steamed greens
- 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and thyme. Coat with flour.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove chicken and set aside. In the same pan, melt additional butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
- Add chicken stock and reduce by half before stirring in cream and Dijon mustard; simmer for 2 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the pan and mix in parmesan cheese until melted.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with sauce (150g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
