Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish featuring juicy, pan-seared chicken smothered in a rich, garlicky cream sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it’s simple yet impressive.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, shredded
• 3-4 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 10 cloves garlic
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 beef bouillon cube or 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon
• 1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

Prep Work:

1. Combine chicken broth, bouillon, soy sauce, onion powder, mustard powder, and thyme in a bowl. Set aside.
2. Mix flour and Parmesan cheese on a plate. Measure out additional ingredients before starting.

Prepare and Sear the Chicken:

1. Slice each chicken breast into 2-3 thinner pieces. Place the chicken in a gallon-sized freezer bag or between sheets of plastic wrap. Use the textured side of a meat mallet to pound the chicken to ½-inch thickness. Pat the chicken completely dry.
2. Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring both sides are coated. Tap off any excess flour.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken in batches, cooking for 4-5 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Set aside and leave the browned bits in the pan for added flavor.

Make the Sauce:

1. Melt butter in the skillet over medium heat. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
2. Add the garlic cloves and cook for 6-7 minutes until they soften and caramelize.
3. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until the raw flour smell disappears and it begins to lightly brown.
4. Gradually add the chicken broth mixture, stirring continuously.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and mix in the Parmesan cheese, if using.

Finish the Dish:

1. Return the chicken to the skillet, along with any juices from the resting plate. Spoon sauce over the chicken.
2. Cover and cook on low for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and the chicken to absorb the flavors.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with mashed potatoes and roasted green beans.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The luxurious garlic cream sauce is packed with flavor, making this dish irresistible.
• Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples and fresh ingredients combine to create a restaurant-quality meal at home.
• Versatile: Pair with various sides or adapt to dietary preferences with easy substitutions.

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Tips

• Pound the chicken evenly to ensure even cooking and a juicy texture.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture in the sauce.
• Don’t skip caramelizing the garlic; it enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein: Substitute chicken with pork chops or turkey cutlets.
• Garlic: For a milder flavor, reduce the number of garlic cloves or use roasted garlic.
• Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative.
• Low-Carb: Swap all-purpose flour with almond flour for dredging and thickening.

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FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and sear the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately and combine when ready to serve.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles to soak up the sauce.
• Add a side of roasted vegetables, such as green beans, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
• Complement with a crisp green salad for a lighter option.

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Enjoy this Creamy Garlic Chicken as a comforting and delicious meal that’s sure to impress family and guests alike!