Indulge in this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken, a healthy and satisfying dinner made with tender chicken breasts smothered in a luscious garlic-infused sauce. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavors while remaining simple to prepare. Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions, it’s a crowd-pleaser with a healthy twist.
Recipe Tips and Tricks:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to perfection without overcooking.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after searing to retain its juices.
- For a smoother sauce, whisk continuously while adding cream or milk to prevent curdling.
- Adjust the garlic quantity based on personal taste – roasted garlic can add a sweeter note.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can elevate the flavors for a more gourmet feel.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken combines simplicity and decadence, offering a healthier spin on classic comfort food. The garlic butter sauce is rich and creamy without being overly indulgent, and the balance of spices creates a perfect harmony of flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this dish is sure to impress with minimal effort. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it over rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken offers tender chicken in a rich, healthy sauce—perfect for easy, flavorful weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Thicken the Sauce: Add Parmesan cheese gradually while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine and Finish: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F).
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot over rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Let the sauce sit for a minute before serving to thicken further.
- Double the sauce for extra servings if pairing with pasta.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 630Total Fat 48gSaturated Fat 25gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 19gCholesterol 213mgSodium 641mgCarbohydrates 5gFiber 0gSugar 2gProtein 43g
The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredient Notes:
- Chicken Breasts: Opt for boneless, skinless breasts for a lean protein source. Pound them lightly to ensure even cooking.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for bold flavors. Mince finely or crush for a stronger aroma.
- Butter: Choose unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, swap this with half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to keep the sauce balanced.
- Seasonings: A mix of Italian herbs, smoked paprika, and ground black pepper adds depth.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan provides a savory touch and helps thicken the sauce naturally.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Protein: Replace chicken breasts with boneless thighs for a juicier option or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with vegan margarine and cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.
- Herbs: Experiment with rosemary, sage, or dill for a unique flavor profile.
- Veggie Add-Ons: Add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to increase the nutrient content and visual appeal.
- Spice It Up: Include red pepper flakes or cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Low-Carb: Serve with zoodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta or regular rice.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to preserve the sauce’s texture.
- Freezer: Freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as directed.
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