This creamy garlic chicken is a winner for easy dinners! Juicy chicken thighs are cooked in a rich, flavorful garlic sauce that’s oh-so-delicious.
Once you taste it, you might just want to lick the plate! I love pairing it with rice or veggies to soak up that yummy sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Thighs are juicier and more forgiving than breasts, making them perfect for this dish. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could substitute half and half or coconut cream, but your sauce may be less thick.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings robust flavor. If you’re out of fresh garlic, try using 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, but fresh is always best if you can swing it!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and adds more flavor. If you don’t have Parmesan, a good substitute is Pecorino Romano or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Get the Garlic Flavor Just Right Without Burning It?
Garlic can go from sweet to bitter quickly if overheated. Here are some tips to make sure it stays fragrant:
- Always sauté garlic in the oil for just about a minute; keep an eye on it and don’t walk away.
- If it starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat to medium and stir frequently.
- Adding the chicken broth almost immediately after cooking garlic helps to cool it down and prevents burning.
Enjoy your cooking! This dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple creamy garlic chicken recipe will take about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken, and another 15-20 minutes to make the delicious creamy sauce and finish up. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil heats, sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken thighs on both sides. Once hot, add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute or until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to let it burn! After that, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, using a spatula to scrape up any delicious brown bits stuck to the bottom.
3. Create the Creamy Mixture:
Now, reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Let this simmer for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Allow it to simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes, so the flavors meld beautifully.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your creamy garlic chicken hot over cooked rice, pasta, or alongside your favorite vegetables.
Enjoy your creamy, garlicky, comforting chicken dinner! It’s a simple yet rewarding dish that’s sure to impress!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts! Just be sure not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily than thighs. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes per side, depending on their thickness.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half and half or coconut cream. Keep in mind that using these options might result in a slightly thinner sauce, but it’ll still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy garlic chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat while adding a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy.
What Can I Serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or even mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, consider serving it over steamed vegetables or a fresh salad!
