Garlic Chicken is a tasty and comforting dish that’s full of flavor. Juicy chicken is cooked until golden and then coated in a creamy garlic sauce that’s rich, savory, and perfect for any night of the week. It’s easy to make, comes together in one pan, and is sure to be a hit whether you’re feeding your family or cooking for guests.
Why We Love This Garlic Chicken Recipe
Garlic Chicken stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, allowing even novice cooks to whip up restaurant-quality meals in their own kitchens. The key ingredients – chicken, garlic, and cream – are easily accessible, making it a practical choice for busy weeknights.
Secondly, the aroma of sautéing garlic is something that draws everyone to the kitchen. There’s something comforting about the scent of garlic mingling with butter that feels like home. As the chicken cooks and absorbs the flavors, you’ll find it hard to resist sneaking a taste before it even reaches the dinner table.
Finally, this dish is versatile. Whether you serve it over a bed of rice, alongside a fresh salad, or with roasted vegetables, Garlic Chicken adapts beautifully to various sides. You have the freedom to customize the meal based on personal preferences and what you have available.
Ingredients for Garlic Chicken
The simplicity of the ingredient list makes Garlic Chicken a favorite. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Flour for dredging
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 1 whole head garlic cloves (peeled)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or stock
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup heavy or whipping cream
- Chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
How to Make Garlic Chicken Directions
Creating Garlic Chicken is a delightful cooking experience that will fill your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make it:
Preparation: Begin by cutting the chicken breasts in half lengthwise. This gives you four smaller cutlets, which cook more quickly and absorb flavors better.
Seasoning and Coating: Season your chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. This extra layer of flavor will enhance the overall taste of your dish. Dredge the seasoned chicken in flour, ensuring each piece is coated evenly.
Searing the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter has melted and foams a bit, carefully place your chicken cutlets in the pan. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. This step locks in the chicken’s moisture and creates a lovely crust on the outside.
Setting Aside the Chicken: Once they are nicely browned, take the chicken out of the skillet and set them aside on a plate. This will allow them to rest while you prepare the garlic sauce.
Cooking the Garlic: Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the pan. Toss in the peeled garlic cloves, cooking them gently for about 3-4 minutes until they achieve a light golden color. This slow cooking extracts the robust flavors of the garlic without burning it.
Making the Sauce: Pour the chicken broth into the pan, followed by the lemon juice and garlic powder. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. This means you’re intensifying the flavors and creating a savory base for the sauce.
Finishing Touches: Pour in the cream and give everything a good stir. Once combined, return the chicken to the pan and immerse it in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Serving: If you’d like, you can add some chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color. This not only enhances the visual appeal of the dish but also adds a fresh note.
By following these steps, you’ll create Garlic Chicken that’s bursting with flavor, creamy in texture, and absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken
Once your Garlic Chicken is ready, think about how you’d like to present it. Serving this dish is almost as enjoyable as cooking it! You have several options that complement the rich, creamy sauce beautifully.
One approach is to serve it over a generous scoop of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. The sauce will soak into these sides, making every bite a delight. Alternatively, pairing the chicken with pasta, such as fettuccine or penne, provides a lovely vehicle for the sauce, creating a rich and hearty meal.
Another great option is to serve Garlic Chicken alongside roasted or steamed vegetables. Bright asparagus, green beans, or vibrant bell peppers not only create a colorful plate but also balance the dish with a fresh crunch.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider preparing a simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
Regardless of how you choose to serve it, Garlic Chicken is a versatile dish that shines on its own or accompanies various side options.
Expert Tips: Garlic Chicken
To ensure you create the best Garlic Chicken possible, keep these expert tips in mind:
Chicken Thickness: For even cooking, make sure your chicken cutlets are of uniform thickness. If necessary, pound them to an even thickness before seasoning.
Don’t Rush the Garlic: When sautéing the garlic, ensure you’re cooking it at a medium heat. High heat can burn garlic easily, giving it a bitter taste. Patience pays off!
Adjust Cream to Preference: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute some of the heavy cream with chicken broth or stock. This still gives you a delicious flavor without being overly rich.
Experiment with Fresh Herbs: While parsley is a classic garnish, feel free to explore other herbs such as thyme, basil, or chives to elevate the flavor profile of your dish.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken up to the frying step ahead of time and finish cooking later. This is particularly handy for dinner parties!
Check for Doneness: Always ensure your chicken is cooked through. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Using a meat thermometer can help you achieve perfect results every time.
How to Store Garlic Chicken
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing Garlic Chicken is simple. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature, and then transfer it to an airtight container. Properly stored, Garlic Chicken can stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.
When reheating, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Heat it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, being careful not to overcook the chicken.
For longer storage, Garlic Chicken can be frozen. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container, and it should last for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variations of Garlic Chicken
While the classic Garlic Chicken recipe is delightful on its own, exploring variations can lead to new culinary adventures. Here are some ideas you might want to try:
- Garlic Chicken with Spinach: Add fresh spinach leaves to the garlic sauce for a burst of color and nutrition. The spinach will wilt beautifully and incorporate into the dish.
- Creamy Garlic Chicken with Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the garlic until they’re soft and golden, adding them to the sauce for a hearty, earthy flavor.
- Spicy Garlic Chicken: For those who enjoy a kick, add red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers while cooking the garlic. This will infuse the dish with a delightful heat.
- Citrus Garlic Chicken: Incorporate orange or lime juice instead of lemon juice for a refreshing citrus twist. You can also add zest for a more robust flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions about Garlic Chicken
What can I serve with Garlic Chicken?
You can serve Garlic Chicken with a variety of sides such as rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta. Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad also pair nicely with the creamy flavors of the dish.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking. This ensures even cooking and allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the dish better.
How do I know when my chicken is done cooking?
You can check the doneness of your chicken by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear when you cut into the chicken.
Can I make Garlic Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Garlic Chicken ahead of time by cooking the chicken and sauce and then reheating before serving. This is a great option for meal prep or when hosting guests.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or a combination of chicken broth with cream for a lighter sauce. Experiment with different ratios to find what works best for you.
Garlic Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 head garlic cloves (peeled)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or stock
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup heavy or whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
- to taste salt & pepper
- as needed flour for dredging
- chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by cutting the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create smaller cutlets.
- Season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper, then dredge them in flour.
Cooking
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Sauté the chicken cutlets for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown, then set aside on a plate to rest.
- Lower the heat and add the remaining butter to the skillet. Cook the peeled garlic cloves for about 3-4 minutes until lightly golden.
- Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Cook for about 4 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the cream to the pan, stir well, and then return the chicken to the pan. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve the Garlic Chicken over rice, pasta, or alongside vegetables.