Creamy Garlic Chicken

Posted by by Sara 1 year Ago 161 Views

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier meat)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced (or more if you love garlic!)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for tang)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

  1. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
  2. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

  1. Sauté the garlic and onion: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion (if using) and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Deglaze the pan: Add the chicken broth to the skillet, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits (this adds flavor).
  3. Make the sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), Parmesan cheese, and dried thyme. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens.
  4. Season the sauce: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

  1. Return the chicken: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes so the chicken can absorb some of the sauce.
  2. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and flavor. Serve the creamy garlic chicken over pasta, rice, or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips:

  • Add vegetables: You can sauté spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli in the skillet before making the sauce for added flavor and texture.
  • Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
  • Substitute the cream: If you want a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk, though it may not be as rich.

Nutrition (Per Serving – 1 Chicken Breast with Sauce):

  • Calories: 500-600 kcal (depending on portion size and ingredients)
  • Protein: 40g
  • Fat: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 3g