Introduction
Welcome to your new favorite weeknight dinner—Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet! When life gets busy, and time feels short, this quick and flavorful dish steps up to the plate. Imagine tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection, then enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce that will have your taste buds dancing.
Not only is this recipe a breeze to whip up, but the creamy garlic sauce elevates simple ingredients into a comforting meal that feels indulgent. Great for busy families or a cozy dinner for two, the robust flavors and rich texture make this skillet dish a delightful choice no matter the occasion.
In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying dinner ready to enjoy, complete with a one-pan cleanup! So grab your skillet and let’s dive into this deliciously creamy garlic butter chicken recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
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- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, making sure not to burn the garlic.
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- Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
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- Add the heavy cream, dried thyme, and paprika, stirring to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
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- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
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- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the creamy sauce over them, and let them cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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- Remove from heat and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter for extra creaminess. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to an even thickness for even cooking.
- Garlic: 4-6 cloves, minced—fresh garlic adds a robust flavor to the dish.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, used for sautéing the chicken and creating a rich sauce.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup of heavy cream for a creamy, luscious sauce that envelops the chicken.
- Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup of chicken broth to enhance the savory elements of the dish.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
- Fresh Spinach: 2 cups of fresh baby spinach, which will wilt down and add color and nutrients to the dish.
- Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning (or dried thyme) for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the overall flavor.
Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
Baking Process
Though the creamy garlic butter chicken skillet is primarily a stovetop recipe, you can incorporate some baking techniques to enhance the dish or prepare side items that complement your meal. Here’s how you can add an oven-baked element:
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts (or thighs)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Sear the Chicken
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Once the butter is hot and bubbling, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
3. Create the Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Cook for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning, mixing well until the sauce is creamy.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
4. Bake the Chicken
- Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the seared chicken in the baking dish. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture, and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Finish and Serve
- Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven, and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
- Serve this dish over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy garlic sauce.
By integrating the baking technique, you not only enhance the flavor profile but also make it easier to prepare larger portions or side dishes simultaneously. Enjoy your fast and flavorful creamy garlic butter chicken skillet!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet and create a well-rounded meal, consider these serving suggestions:
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Over a Bed of Rice: Spoon the creamy garlic butter chicken over fluffy white or brown rice. The rice will absorb the luscious sauce, making each bite delectable.
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With Pasta: Toss your favorite pasta—like fettuccine or penne—with the creamy sauce for a comforting, carb-packed meal. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost.
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Pair with Fresh Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans. The fresh crunch balances the richness of the dish.
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Crusty Bread: Offer slices of crusty bread or a warm baguette to soak up the excess sauce. This is a favorite among those who love to enjoy every drop!
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Salad Side: A light side salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken.
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Mashed Potatoes: For a heartier pairing, serve the chicken alongside creamy mashed potatoes. The blend of flavors will be irresistible!
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Garnish Creatively: Finish your dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also enhances the flavor profile.
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Wine Pairing: Accompany your meal with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir to complement the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
With these serving suggestions, you can customize your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet experience, turning a simple dish into a delightful culinary adventure! Enjoy!
Conclusion
The Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is not just a meal; it’s a delightful culinary experience that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. This quick and easy recipe showcases tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy garlic sauce that elevates the dish to a restaurant-quality standout. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish proves that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create something truly special.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up that luscious sauce—your taste buds will thank you!
So why wait? Add this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet to your dinner rotation, and make mealtime a moment to cherish. Happy cooking!
