Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken is a rich and satisfying dish that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts or thighs seared to golden perfection and smothered in a luscious garlic butter sauce. This recipe delivers a harmonious blend of buttery smoothness, aromatic garlic, and a touch of cream, making it the perfect pairing for mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers comfort food at its finest. The succulent chicken absorbs the creamy garlic butter sauce, resulting in mouthwatering flavor in every bite. You will appreciate how quick and easy it is to prepare, making it suitable for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Furthermore, the simplicity of ingredients ensures you can enjoy gourmet-level taste with minimal effort. The sauce’s velvety texture and rich flavor profile will satisfy any craving for something indulgent and hearty.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Butter
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• All-purpose flour (optional, for dredging)

Directions

1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides. If desired, lightly dredge each piece in flour for a crisp exterior and to help thicken the sauce.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and half the butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown on both sides and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and garlic. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
5. Stir in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce thicken, stirring occasionally, for about 3-4 minutes.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Cook for another 2 minutes to ensure the chicken is heated through.
8. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for added earthiness.
• Herb twist: Incorporate fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil into the sauce for additional aromatic notes.
• Lemon zest: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or some lemon zest at the end for brightness.
• Spicy version: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
• Lighter option: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring the sauce to ensure it does not separate. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as the creamy sauce may break upon thawing.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). You can check using an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but the cooking time will be longer. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F, and consider finishing in the oven if the pieces are thick.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Simmer the sauce gently and avoid boiling once the cream is added. Stir regularly to maintain a smooth consistency.

Is it necessary to dredge the chicken in flour?

No, but it adds a slight crust and helps thicken the sauce. You can skip this step for a gluten-free option or lighter dish.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with vegan butter or olive oil, and use a plant-based cream alternative, though the flavor will differ.

What sides pair well with creamy garlic butter chicken?

Mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables are excellent accompaniments to soak up the sauce.

Can I add vegetables to the skillet?

Yes, spinach, broccoli florets, or peas can be added to the sauce for extra nutrition.

What type of cream should I use?

Heavy cream is preferred for its richness and stability in sauces, but you may use double cream or cooking cream as alternatives.

How do I store and reheat leftovers without drying out the chicken?

Reheat gently over low heat and add a bit of broth or cream to refresh the sauce. Avoid microwaving on high, as this may dry out the chicken.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, but the sauce is best enjoyed fresh. If prepping ahead, store the chicken and sauce separately and combine when reheating for optimal texture.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken offers an elegant yet simple solution for a delicious home-cooked meal. The rich, velvety sauce and tender chicken create a comforting dish that is sure to please the entire family. With minimal preparation and versatile serving options, this recipe is a valuable addition to any kitchen repertoire. Whether paired with pasta, rice, or vegetables, it is guaranteed to satisfy.

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken

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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken is a rich, indulgent dish featuring tender chicken seared to perfection and smothered in a luscious garlic butter cream sauce. Perfect served with mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice.

• Author: Emma Harper
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for dredging)

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Instructions

1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides. If desired, lightly dredge in flour.
2. Heat olive oil and half the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
4. Lower heat to medium. Add remaining butter and garlic; sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
5. Add chicken broth, scraping up browned bits. Simmer 2-3 minutes.
6. Pour in heavy cream; bring to gentle simmer and let sauce thicken, stirring occasionally, 3-4 minutes.
7. Return chicken to skillet, spoon sauce over top, and cook 2 more minutes to heat through.
8. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

• Dredging chicken in flour is optional but helps thicken the sauce and adds a crust.
• For added flavor, include mushrooms, herbs, or a splash of lemon juice.
• Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to prevent sauce separation.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 145mg