Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts offer a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. This dish combines tender chicken breasts in a rich and creamy garlic sauce that’s full of flavor yet simple to prepare. Ideal for family dinners or when you need a comforting meal without a lot of fuss, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients Overview
Chicken Breasts
- Why This Ingredient? Chicken breasts are a popular choice for their lean protein and mild flavor, which makes them the perfect canvas for the creamy garlic sauce.
- Health Benefits: High in protein and low in fat, chicken breasts are excellent for muscle maintenance and overall health.
Heavy Cream
- Why This Ingredient? Heavy cream adds a luxurious texture and richness to the sauce, making it irresistibly creamy.
- Health Benefits: While heavy cream is indulgent, it also provides a good source of vitamins A and D, which are essential for eye health and bone growth.
Garlic
- Why This Ingredient? Garlic not only infuses the dish with its distinctive aroma and taste but also complements the creamy texture of the sauce.
- Health Benefits: Garlic is renowned for its health benefits, including its ability to support cardiovascular health and its anti-inflammatory properties.
Olive Oil and Butter
- Why These Ingredients? A combination of olive oil and butter is used for cooking the chicken, providing both flavor and a golden sear.
- Health Benefits: Olive oil is high in monounsaturated fats, beneficial for heart health, while butter adds a hint of richness.
Substitutions
For those with specific dietary needs or preferences, consider these alternatives:
- Chicken Breasts: Substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful alternative.
- Heavy Cream: Use full-fat coconut milk as a dairy-free substitute to maintain the creamy texture.
- Butter: For a healthier option, use all olive oil instead of butter, or try a plant-based butter substitute.
Recipe
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients with Measurements
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 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 and melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Add chicken to the skillet and cook until golden on both sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning, and simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the breasts. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to reheat the chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition
Each serving approximately contains:
- Calories: 410
- Carbs: 4g
- Fats: 28g
- Protein: 34g
Storage Instructions
Store leftover creamy garlic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Conclusion
Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts is a comforting and delicious dish that combines simple ingredients for a mouthwatering result. With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe is ideal for a quick dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste.
FAQ
- Can I make this dish in advance? Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and simply reheat when ready to serve.
- What sides go well with this dish? Serve creamy garlic chicken with steamed vegetables, over pasta, or with a side of mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
