Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe transforms everyday chicken breasts into a gourmet experience. The combination of crispy, breaded chicken and a velvety garlic cream sauce creates a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. It's a versatile dish that pairs well with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables, making it suitable for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

---

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• ½ cup half-and-half or light cream

• 1 to 1 ½ cups Italian-flavored bread crumbs

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

For the sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons finely minced garlic

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• ½ cup chicken stock

• 1 cup heavy cream (preferred)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 ounces softened cream cheese

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon white pepper

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

---

Directions

1. Using a meat mallet, pound each chicken breast between sheets of plastic wrap or wax paper to ¼-inch thickness. For larger pieces, cut each pounded breast in half lengthwise.

2. In a shallow dish, pour the half-and-half.

3. In another shallow dish, place the Italian bread crumbs.

4. Dip each piece of chicken into the cream, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the bread crumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

5. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

6. Add the breaded chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C).

7. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

8. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.

9. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes, being careful not to let it brown.

10. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.

11. Gradually whisk in the chicken stock, ensuring no lumps form.

12. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and cream cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken.

13. Season with salt and white pepper.

14. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.

15. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the chicken through and meld the flavors.

---

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

---

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

• Use Chicken Thighs: Substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat.

---

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken stock to loosen the sauce if necessary.

---

FAQs

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bread crumbs and ensure the chicken stock and cream are gluten-free.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Sauté the garlic over medium heat and monitor closely to avoid burning.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can bread and cook the chicken in advance, then prepare the sauce and reheat before serving.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

While the chicken can be frozen, the cream sauce may separate upon reheating. It's best to freeze the chicken separately from the sauce.

What can I serve this dish with?

This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, steamed vegetables, or a side salad.

Can I use light cream instead of heavy cream?

Yes, light cream can be used, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.

How do I ensure the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 175°F (80°C).

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Freshly minced garlic is recommended for the best flavor, but pre-minced garlic can be used in a pinch.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Increase the amount of flour slightly or simmer the sauce longer to achieve the desired thickness.

---

Conclusion

Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delightful dish that combines crispy, breaded chicken with a luscious garlic cream sauce. Its rich flavors and comforting textures make it a family favorite that's easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.