Velvety Garlic Chicken

Indulge in Creamy Garlic Chicken: An Easy & Flavorful Weeknight Dinner Recipe

Golden brown chicken breasts drenched in creamy garlic sauce, garnished with fresh herbs.


★★★★☆

4 from 1 vote

Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce: A Quick and Delicious Meal

By:
Julia Pacheco

Prepare to be amazed by this incredibly simple yet utterly indulgent Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce recipe. Featuring perfectly golden-brown chicken breasts generously smothered in a rich, velvety, and intensely flavorful garlic parmesan sauce, this dish promises a gourmet experience with minimal effort. It’s an ideal choice for a busy weeknight when you crave something special, or for entertaining guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The harmonious blend of savory chicken and the decadent, aromatic sauce makes every bite a memorable one. This recipe is designed to deliver maximum flavor and comfort in about 30 minutes, making it a go-to for any occasion.

Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Servings:
4 servings

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Ingredients

Gathering high-quality ingredients is the first step to creating a truly delicious meal. This recipe uses common pantry staples combined with fresh components to build a robust flavor profile that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Ensure your chicken is fresh and all spices are aromatic for the best results.

  • 1 lb chicken breast: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease and quick cooking. They are a lean source of protein perfect for absorbing the rich sauce.
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended to control the overall saltiness of the dish, allowing other flavors to shine.
  • 1 tsp onion powder: Adds a subtle, savory depth to the sauce without the texture of fresh onion.
  • ½ tsp dried thyme: An earthy herb that complements chicken beautifully and adds aromatic notes to the creamy sauce.
  • 2 tsp low sodium soy sauce: A secret ingredient that adds a wonderful umami boost, enhancing the savory profile of the sauce without making it taste like soy sauce.
  • cup + 3 tbs all purpose flour, divided: Used to coat the chicken for a crispy exterior and to thicken the sauce, creating its luxurious texture.
  • 4 tbs parmesan cheese , + 1/2 cup divided: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts beautifully into the sauce, adding a nutty, salty, and distinctly savory flavor that is crucial to the dish.
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that seasons the chicken, creating a fragrant crust when seared.
  • ½ tsp salt: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce. Adjust to your taste, especially with low-sodium broth and soy sauce.
  • ¼ tsp pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick and enhances the overall flavor.
  • 3 tbs olive oil: Used for searing the chicken to a beautiful golden crisp.
  • 3 tbs butter: Forms the rich base of the creamy garlic sauce, contributing to its luscious texture and flavor.
  • 3 tbs minced garlic: The star of the show! Use fresh garlic for the most pungent and authentic flavor. Don’t skimp on this for true creamy garlic sauce goodness.
  • 4 tbs cream cheese: Adds incredible richness and tanginess, making the sauce extra creamy and irresistible.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping creamy garlic chicken dish that will impress everyone at your table. Precision in preparation and attention to detail during cooking will ensure perfectly tender chicken and a lusciously smooth sauce.

  • Prepare the Chicken: Take your chicken breasts and carefully slice them in half horizontally. This technique, often called butterflying or creating cutlets, makes them thinner and ensures they cook evenly and quickly. Thinner chicken also maximizes the surface area for that delicious seasoned coating.

  • Whisk the Broth Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chicken broth with the onion powder, dried thyme, and low-sodium soy sauce. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined. This aromatic liquid will form the flavorful base of your creamy garlic sauce. Set this mixture aside for later use.

  • Create the Chicken Coating: Grab a shallow bowl and add ⅓ cup of all-purpose flour. To this, add 4 tablespoons of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir these two ingredients thoroughly until they are evenly combined. This flour and Parmesan mixture will give your chicken a delightful golden crust when seared.

  • Season and Coat the Chicken: Season both sides of your thinly sliced chicken breasts generously with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. After seasoning, dredge each piece of chicken through the flour and Parmesan mixture, ensuring both sides are fully coated. Gently shake off any excess flour to prevent a gummy texture during cooking. This light coating helps create a beautiful sear and locks in moisture.

  • Sear the Chicken: Heat a large, deep skillet over medium heat, then add 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering (you might see a slight ripple), carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 5-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chicken. Remove the cooked chicken to a clean plate and set it aside, covering it loosely to keep warm.

  • Craft the Creamy Garlic Sauce: Using the same skillet (don’t clean it, those browned bits add flavor!), add 3 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt completely over medium heat. Once melted, add the 3 tablespoons of minced garlic and stir continuously for about 20 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Next, whisk in the remaining 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, cooking out the raw flour taste. Slowly and gradually whisk in the chicken broth mixture (from step 2) to avoid any lumps, ensuring a smooth sauce. Continue to whisk frequently as the sauce comes to a gentle simmer and begins to thicken. Finally, whisk in the 4 tablespoons of cream cheese until it’s fully melted and incorporated, creating a luxurious base. Stir in the remaining ½ cup of Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, making it extra rich and cheesy. Once the Parmesan is fully melted and the sauce is perfectly smooth, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet to warm through and generously coat them in the luscious sauce. Serve immediately over your favorite side dish.

Tips and Variations for Your Creamy Garlic Chicken

Enhance your cooking experience and customize this Creamy Garlic Chicken to your liking with these helpful tips and creative variations:

  • For Extra Flavor: Before searing, marinate the chicken in a little olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of garlic powder for at least 15 minutes. This can add an extra layer of moisture and zest.
  • Add Vegetables: This dish is incredibly versatile. Sauté sliced mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes in the skillet after removing the chicken and before making the sauce. Add them back with the chicken at the end. They absorb the creamy garlic flavor beautifully.
  • Herb Power: While dried thyme is used in the broth, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives before serving can add a vibrant color and fresh aroma. Fresh rosemary could also be used in moderation for a different aromatic touch.
  • Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic when it’s sautéing. This will infuse a subtle warmth into the creamy sauce.
  • Wine Addition: For an even richer sauce, deglaze the pan with ¼ cup of dry white wine (like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc) after searing the chicken and before adding butter. Let it simmer for a minute to cook off the alcohol, then proceed with the butter and garlic.
  • Adjust Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, thin it out with a little extra chicken broth or a splash of milk/cream. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes, stirring frequently, to allow it to reduce and thicken naturally.
  • Storage and Reheating: Store leftover creamy garlic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from separating.
  • Serving Suggestions: Beyond the suggested mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, this chicken also pairs wonderfully with roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing to cut through the richness.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 425kcal |
Carbohydrates: 17g |
Protein: 35g |
Fat: 24g |
Saturated Fat: 8g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 11g |
Trans Fat: 0.01g |
Cholesterol: 103mg |
Sodium: 1405mg |
Potassium: 543mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 1g |
Vitamin A: 388IU |
Vitamin C: 3mg |
Calcium: 271mg |
Iron: 2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. Variations may occur based on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods.




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