Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken

When I first stumbled upon the recipe for Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken, I was captivated by the idea of creating a dish that could turn an ordinary weeknight into something extraordinary. One chilly evening, I was searching for comfort and warmth in my kitchen, and this recipe came to my rescue. The aroma of garlic and fresh herbs dancing together as they sizzle in the pan was enough to make my mouth water in anticipation. I remember the first time I served this to my family; their smiles said it all. It’s amazing how a simple dish can bring everyone together, and I love how Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken does just that.

The best part about this recipe is its versatility. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a gathering with friends, this dish makes an impression every time. The creamy sauce envelops the chicken, creating a rich flavor profile that’s both comforting and sophisticated. I often pair it with roasted vegetables or a light salad, and it never fails to please. Each bite is a celebration of flavors that transports me back to that first memorable evening in my kitchen. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of cooking Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken and share it with your loved ones!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken

In crafting Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken, every ingredient plays a pivotal role in creating the flavors we adore. The key players here are the fresh herbs and the creamy sauce, which unite to envelop the chicken in a rich, savory embrace. These ingredients work harmoniously, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor and comfort.

• 4 (6 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts – The star of this dish, tender chicken breasts serve as a blank canvas for the creamy sauce and herbs, soaking up all the flavors beautifully.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken, these ingredients enhance the overall flavor profile, bringing out the best in every bite.
• 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil – Used for cooking, olive oil adds a rich flavor and helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior on the chicken.
• 1 Tbsp butter – This adds a luscious richness to the sauce, complementing the creaminess and balancing the flavors perfectly.
• 1 Tbsp minced fresh garlic (3 cloves) – Garlic infuses the dish with aromatic flavor, elevating the overall taste with its savory essence.
• 2 tsp all-purpose flour – This helps to thicken the sauce, giving it that desirable creamy texture that clings beautifully to the chicken.
• 1 cup milk (anything but skim) – Milk contributes to the creamy sauce, making it rich and velvety. Whole milk or 2% works best!
• 4 oz cream cheese, diced into small cubes – Cream cheese adds a smooth, creamy texture to the sauce, making it irresistibly delicious.
• 1 tsp minced fresh thyme – Thyme introduces an earthy flavor that harmonizes perfectly with the other ingredients.
• 1 tsp minced fresh rosemary – Rosemary’s robust flavor complements the chicken beautifully, adding depth to the dish.
• 1 Tbsp minced fresh parsley (optional) – Garnishing with parsley adds a splash of color and a fresh note to the final presentation.

How to Assemble Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken

Making Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken is a delightful experience that brings both joy and satisfaction. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish ready to impress. Let’s dive into the preparation and cooking process!

1. Pound the chicken evenly with the flat side of a meat mallet to a thickness of half an inch. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays tender.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to heat until shimmering, which indicates it’s ready for the chicken.
3. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance their flavor.
4. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for about six to seven minutes. You want them to achieve a beautiful golden brown color on the bottom. Then, flip the chicken over and continue to cook until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, which should take about five to six more minutes.
5. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the sauce.
6. Lower the heat to medium and melt the butter in the empty skillet, allowing it to foam slightly. This will add a rich flavor to the sauce.
7. Add the minced fresh garlic and sauté for about twenty seconds, just until it turns lightly golden. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste.
8. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir it constantly for about twenty seconds until it is slightly golden. This forms a roux that will thicken your sauce.
9. While whisking continuously, pour in the milk, followed by the diced cream cheese. Stir well to combine, allowing the cream cheese to melt and create a creamy texture.
10. Add the minced thyme and rosemary, seasoning the mixture with additional salt and pepper to taste. Let it come to a gentle simmer while whisking constantly to ensure a silky sauce.
11. Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce over the top so every piece is coated in that delicious mixture.
12. If you like, sprinkle with minced parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
13. Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy the wonderful medley of flavors!

Expert Tips about Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken

To make your experience with Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken even more enjoyable, here are some expert tips to consider. These will help you perfect the recipe and elevate your cooking skills.

• Storage: Store any leftover Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes. Consider serving it with a light green salad for a balanced meal.
• Variations: Try adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for added flavor and texture.
• Meal Prep: To save time during busy weeknights, you can prep the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately until you’re ready to cook.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken, creativity knows no bounds. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will enhance your dining experience:

• With Pasta: Serve the creamy chicken over cooked pasta, allowing the sauce to coat every strand, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
• On Rice: A bed of fluffy rice is a great base for the chicken and sauce, soaking up all the flavors and adding a hearty element to the dish.
• With Vegetables: Pair the chicken with steamed or roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate. Broccoli, asparagus, and green beans work beautifully.
• For Dinner Parties: Impress your guests by plating the chicken with a side of garlic bread and a fresh garden salad. It’s an elegant yet approachable meal.
• Comfort Food: This dish is perfect for cozy nights in, served alongside a glass of warm bread and a glass of your favorite beverage.
• Seasonal Flair: Consider adding seasonal ingredients, such as roasted butternut squash in the fall or fresh herbs in the summer, to keep things exciting.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken is a fantastic dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Its creamy sauce and delightful flavors make it a must-try for any home cook. I encourage you to give this recipe a go; it might just become a new family favorite. Happy cooking!

Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are enveloped in a rich garlic herb sauce that is both satisfying and easy to make. Whip it up tonight for an unforgettable meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 (6 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts
• to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 Tbsp butter
• 1 Tbsp minced fresh garlic (3 cloves)
• 2 tsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk (anything but skim)
• 4 oz. cream cheese (diced into small cubes)
• 1 tsp minced fresh thyme
• 1 tsp minced fresh rosemary
• 1 Tbsp minced fresh parsley (optional)

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting Board
• Frying Pan
• Blender

Method

 

1. Pound chicken evenly with the flat side of a meat mallet to 1/2-inch thickness.
2. Heat skillet over medium-high heat then add oil.
3. Season both chicken with salt and pepper.
4. Place chicken in skillet and cook 6 to 7 minutes, or until golden brown on bottom, then flip and continue to cook until chicken breasts register 165 degrees in center, about 5 to 6 minutes longer.
5. Transfer chicken to a plate, tent with foil to keep warm.
6. Reduce burner to medium heat and melt butter in now empty skillet.
7. Add in garlic and sauté until just lightly golden, about 20 seconds.
8. Add in flour and cook and stir constantly until just lightly golden, about 20 seconds.
9. While whisking, pour in milk, then add in diced cream cheese, rosemary, and thyme.
10. Season with a little salt and pepper to taste.
11. Cook mixture whisking constantly to melt cream cheese, and let it come to a simmer.
12. Return chicken to pan, spoon sauce over chicken.
13. Sprinkle with parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

• Storage: Store any leftover Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes. Consider serving it with a light green salad for a balanced meal.
• Variations: Try adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for added flavor and texture.
• Meal Prep: To save time during busy weeknights, you can prep the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately until you're ready to cook.

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Meet Blaire Holloway

Taking traditional feast recipes and giving them a modern, vibrant twist is what drives me. I want to keep your menu exciting and fresh. I handled the cooking and photography for this recipe, working to bridge the gap between classic comfort and contemporary flavor for your table.