Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken

Name: Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 tablespoons butter; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 2 cups spinach leaves

Isabella

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Looking for a way to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s both indulgent and bursting with flavor? Our Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken recipe promises to deliver just that. Combining the rich flavors of garlic butter with the luxurious texture of heavy cream, this dish is a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make, requiring just 30 minutes from start to finish. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
5 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 cups spinach leaves

Instructions:

Preparation: Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to ensure they are flavorful throughout.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown on both sides, approximately 5-7 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, about 1 minute. This step is crucial for infusing the sauce with a deep garlic flavor.

Combine Ingredients: Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Add Spinach: Incorporate spinach leaves into the sauce, cooking until they are just wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This adds a pop of color and a nutritional boost to the dish.
Finish the Dish: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them generously. Allow the chicken to cook through in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes, or until it’s thoroughly cooked and the sauce has thickened to your liking.

Related Recipes:

Honey Garlic Chicken RECIPE

Nutritional Information:

Calories: 465 kcal per serving
Servings: 4

Serving and Storage Tips for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken

Serving Suggestions:

Complement with Carbs: Serve this luxurious Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with a side of fluffy mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or a slice of crusty bread. These sides are perfect for soaking up the deliciously creamy sauce and making the meal even more satisfying.
Add Greens: Pair the chicken with steamed vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or a fresh salad. This not only adds a splash of color to your plate but also balances the richness of the dish with a lighter, healthier element.

Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil can add a bright pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish. A little extra grated Parmesan on top right before serving can also enhance the cheesy, creamy texture.

Storage Tips:

Cool Before Storing: Allow the chicken and sauce to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation inside the container, which can make the sauce too watery.
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken upon cooling, but it will become creamy again when reheated.

Freezing: If you plan to freeze the dish, it’s best to do so without the spinach, as it can become soggy upon thawing. Freeze in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also microwave it, covering the dish and stirring periodically to ensure even heating. If you’ve frozen the dish, consider adding fresh spinach when reheating to refresh the flavor and texture.

Additional Tip:

When reheating, avoid boiling the sauce vigorously as it can cause the dairy to separate and the sauce to lose its creamy consistency. Gentle heating is key to preserving the luxurious texture of this dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can easily substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this recipe. Chicken thighs might take a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts, so adjust the cooking time accordingly. Keep in mind that thighs are generally juicier and more flavorful, which can add even more depth to the dish.

2. What can I use as a substitute for heavy cream to make the sauce lighter?

For a lighter version of the sauce, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of flour to thicken it. Another alternative is using a light cooking cream or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Keep in mind that the sauce might be less rich but still delicious.

3. How can I ensure my chicken stays moist and doesn’t dry out?

To keep the chicken moist, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Additionally, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking and before slicing can help retain its juices.

4. Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe can be easily made gluten-free by ensuring that your chicken broth is gluten-free and using a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a thickener for the sauce if needed. Always check the labels of your ingredients to make sure they do not contain gluten or were not processed in a facility that handles gluten-containing products.

Conclusion:

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a statement. It’s perfect for those nights when you crave something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Pair it with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. So why wait? Try this recipe tonight and add a touch of luxury to your dinner table.