Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe for Easy Dinners

Indulge in the velvety allure of creamy garlic chicken with this ultimate home cook’s guide. If the mere thought of sizzling garlic in butter or olive oil awakens your taste buds, this delectable dish is right up your alley. Here's a thorough instructional post on crafting the perfect creamy garlic chicken that will have you savoring every luscious bite. Whether you're entertaining guests or preparing a quiet weeknight meal, this dish is a winner for its simplicity and rich flavors.

Ingredients you'll need for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
10 cloves of garlic, minced (adjust for personal preference)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter

Optionally, consider these additions:

A dash of white wine (for a touch of acidity)
Dried oregano or basil (for depth of flavor)
Salt and pepper (for seasoning)

Preparation of the Creamy Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Begin with your boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You may need to tenderize them for even cooking.
Depending on the size of the chicken breast, you can cut each piece in half horizontally to create thinner pieces.
If you’re not a fan of whole chicken breasts, you can also cube the meat for a more rapid cooking process.

Step 2: The Garlic and Cheese

Mince the garlic finely to ensure it melts seamlessly into the cream sauce.
Measure and grate the parmesan cheese. Freshly grated cheese tends to meld better and is more flavorful than pre-packaged varieties.

Cooking your Creamy Garlic Chicken

Step 1: The Sauté Process

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and butter.
Once the butter starts to foam, carefully add the minced garlic. Sauté until it's golden but not browned.
If you’ve opted for wine, this is the time to deglaze the pan by adding a splash and allowing it to reduce before continuing.

Step 2: Marrying the Ingredients

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth.
Lower the heat and simmer for a few minutes. It’s important not to rush this—allow the flavors to meld and for the sauce to thicken slightly.
Now, gently sprinkle in the parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it’s fully melted and the sauce is thick and creamy.

Step 3: Simmering the Chicken

Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Add the chicken to the pan and allow it to cook through. This could take around 7-8 minutes, but the best indicator of doneness is using a meat thermometer that reads 165°F at the thickest part.
Ensure the chicken is still moist and tender by not overcooking it.

Serving your Creamy Garlic Chicken

The Perfect Pairings

Creamy garlic chicken is splendid with a robust side like a buttery mashed potato or a simple green salad.
Consider a garnish of fresh parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness to the richness of the dish.
For a complete dining experience, pair with a glass of buttery Chardonnay or a crisp Pinot Grigio, depending on your wine preferences and collection.

The Final Presentation

Plate your saucy chicken artistically, drizzling any remaining sauce over the top.
Be sure to serve immediately. Nothing beats a creamy garlic chicken when it’s hot and fresh.

Conclusion

With these detailed directions, you can bring the sizzle of the skillet to your dining table. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting out, mastering the creamy garlic chicken dish is a savory achievement. The versatility of this dish allows for personal touches, so feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your taste. Experiment with different herbs, add a spicy kick with crushed red pepper flakes, or throw in some sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist. The kitchen is your canvas and this creamy garlic chicken is your masterpiece. Enjoy!