Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Herbs

If you’re someone who enjoys a good meal that’s rich, flavorful, and comforting, then Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Herbs is a must-try recipe. This dish is a savory delight that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds, with juicy chicken pieces enveloped in a creamy, buttery sauce that’s infused with the delicious aroma of garlic and fresh herbs. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a crowd, this dish is easy to make and promises a mouthwatering experience.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, tips for the perfect creamy sauce, and much more. By the end, you’ll be ready to impress your family or friends with your culinary skills.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Herbs

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken is a one-pot dish that combines rich, comforting flavors with simple ingredients. The silky texture of the sauce complements the juicy chicken, while the herbs add freshness and aroma. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or any time you crave something delicious and indulgent.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this creamy garlic butter chicken, you’ll need a few basic yet flavorful ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer dark meat)

3 tablespoons of butter (you can use unsalted or salted butter depending on your preference)

5-6 garlic cloves (minced)

1 cup of heavy cream

½ cup of chicken broth

1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard (optional for added flavor)

1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon of dried thyme (or fresh thyme if available)

1 teaspoon of dried rosemary

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken

Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. If you want extra flavor, you can also add a little garlic powder or onion powder.

Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Once the butter melts, place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for about 5-6 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Add the Liquid Ingredients
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. For a tangy twist, add the Dijon mustard and lemon juice. Stir until the sauce is smooth and well-combined.

Season the Sauce
Add the dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken up. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if needed.

Return the Chicken to the Pan
Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, allowing them to soak in all the delicious creamy sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, so the flavors meld together.

Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Serve with your favorite side dish, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect side to soak up that luscious garlic butter sauce.

Rice Pilaf: A fluffy rice pilaf complements the dish with its light texture and mild flavor.

Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add color and crunch, balancing the richness of the chicken.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken

Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work well in this recipe, fresh herbs can take the flavor to the next level. Try using fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a vibrant, fresh taste.

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken breasts, as they can become dry. Once they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), they’re ready.

Adjust the Cream: If you want a richer sauce, you can use more heavy cream. For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cream or substitute it with milk.

Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness: If you prefer juicier, more flavorful meat, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts. They stay tender and juicy throughout the cooking process.

Health Benefits of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken

While this dish is indulgent, it also offers some nutritional benefits:

Protein-Rich: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.

Garlic Benefits: Garlic is not only flavorful but also offers various health benefits, including boosting the immune system and providing antioxidants.

Healthy Fats: Butter and heavy cream provide a good source of fat, though it’s important to consume these in moderation.

Can You Make This Dish in Advance?

Yes, you can make this creamy garlic butter chicken in advance! To do so, cook the chicken and sauce as directed, but don’t garnish with parsley yet. Let the dish cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a bit more cream if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Variations You Can Try

Add Mushrooms: Sauté some sliced mushrooms along with the garlic for an earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy twist.

Lemon Butter Sauce: For a zesty variation, replace some of the cream with more chicken broth and add extra lemon juice.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a little more cream or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce if necessary.

Is Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Keto-Friendly?

Yes! This dish is keto-friendly, especially if you omit any starchy sides and serve it with low-carb vegetables like steamed broccoli or cauliflower rice. The high-fat, low-carb nature of the sauce makes it an excellent choice for a keto meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes, you can substitute the butter with dairy-free alternatives and use coconut cream or almond milk for the sauce.

2. Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze the chicken with the sauce. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat.

3. Can I use bone-in chicken? Bone-in chicken will work too, but it will take longer to cook. Be sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Herbs is a versatile, comforting dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Its creamy, garlicky sauce and tender chicken will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or a weeknight meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Now that you have the recipe, why not give it a try? With its rich flavors and simple ingredients, this creamy garlic butter chicken will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and enjoy the delicious results!

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