Are you in search of a flavorful and quick dinner recipe that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than this delectable Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet! This dish combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy garlic sauce, creating a meal that is both comforting and elegant. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a golden-brown crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits from the chicken.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, dried thyme, and dried basil. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and coat them with the creamy garlic sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the creamy garlic chicken with your choice of side dishes, such as steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Tips for Success
- Pound the Chicken: For even cooking, consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste. A splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice can add extra depth to the sauce.
- Make it Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. The creamy garlic sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, making it a great option for both everyday meals and special occasions. Plus, the rich flavors and satisfying texture of this dish are sure to delight everyone at the table.
Serving and Storage Tips for Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet
Serving Tips
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve your Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet with a variety of sides to complement the rich flavors. Some great options include:
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add a fresh and healthy touch.
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with buttery mashed potatoes.
- Rice: White rice, brown rice, or even a flavorful pilaf will soak up the delicious sauce.
- Pasta: A side of pasta, such as fettuccine or spaghetti, can turn this into a hearty meal.
- Garnishing: For an extra touch of elegance, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of flavor.
- Serving Temperature: This dish is best served warm. If you’re serving it for a special occasion, you might consider keeping the skillet covered with foil and placed in a warm oven until ready to serve.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before transferring to the container to prevent condensation, which can affect the texture of the sauce.
- Freezing: While the dish can be frozen, the texture of the creamy sauce may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, place the cooled chicken and sauce in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat leftovers, do so gently to avoid curdling the sauce. For best results, reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. If the sauce has thickened too much, you can add a splash of chicken broth or milk to achieve the desired consistency. You can also reheat in the microwave, but be sure to stir occasionally for even heating.
- Avoid Reheating Multiple Times: To maintain the best texture and flavor, only reheat what you plan to consume. Repeated reheating can affect the quality of the dish.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet remains delicious and enjoyable for every meal.
1. Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks for this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in chicken typically takes longer to cook through, so you’ll need to simmer it longer in the skillet or finish it in the oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The creamy garlic sauce can still be used with bone-in cuts, but you may need to remove the chicken from the skillet and strain the sauce if needed.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can adapt the Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet to be dairy-free. Substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy milk or cream alternative, such as almond milk, coconut cream, or cashew cream. For the Parmesan cheese, use a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor of the sauce may vary slightly with these substitutions.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet in advance. After cooking, let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.
4. What can I use instead of garlic if I don’t like it?
If you’re not a fan of garlic or need a substitute, you can try using shallots, onion powder, or even a bit of ginger for a different flavor profile. Shallots will give a milder, slightly sweet taste, while onion powder will add a more subtle onion flavor. Adjust the quantities according to your taste preference. Keep in mind that these substitutions will alter the flavor of the dish slightly, but it will still be delicious.