Name: Chicken with Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487013H14M38S
Total time: PT-487013H14M38S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) 2 tablespoons olive oil 4 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup chicken broth 1/4 cup heavy cream 2 tablespoons butter 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh) Salt and pepper to taste Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken with Garlic Sauce is a simple, yet indulgent recipe that packs a punch of flavor. The garlic sauce is rich, buttery, and slightly tangy, making it the perfect accompaniment to juicy chicken. With a minimal ingredient list, it’s easy to make but tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. It’s a versatile dish that can be paired with almost anything and is sure to satisfy everyone at the dinner table.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream, butter, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine, allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken for 2-3 minutes.
Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon some sauce over the top, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through and coat it in the sauce.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time takes about 10 minutes, and the cooking time is around 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken.

Variations

Add vegetables: Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the garlic sauce for more texture and flavor.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced fresh chili to the garlic sauce for a spicy kick.
Use chicken thighs: You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a richer flavor and juicier result.
Add herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary, basil, or oregano can be added to the sauce for additional flavor.
Add white wine: For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of white wine to the sauce before the chicken broth.

Storage/Reheating

To store: Place any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To reheat: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great substitute for chicken breasts. They are juicier and more flavorful, so feel free to use them if you prefer.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, cook the chicken and add the sauce just before serving.

3. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

While fresh garlic provides the best flavor, you can use garlic powder if you don’t have fresh garlic. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for this recipe.

4. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and garlic sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

5. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

6. Can I add more garlic to the sauce?

Absolutely! If you love garlic, feel free to add more minced garlic to the sauce for a stronger flavor.

7. What can I serve with Chicken with Garlic Sauce?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. You could also serve it with a side salad or garlic bread.

8. Can I use low-fat cream instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a lower-fat cream alternative. However, the sauce may not be as rich and creamy as with heavy cream.

9. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free by using coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative, and substituting the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.

10. How can I thicken the garlic sauce?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it for longer to allow it to reduce, or you can mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and add it to the sauce to thicken it.

Conclusion

Chicken with Garlic Sauce is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful meal that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. The creamy garlic sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken, making it a comforting and satisfying dish. With its simplicity and versatility, it’s a great option for any occasion—whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests. Give it a try, and you’ll see why this recipe is sure to be a hit!