If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet Recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of tender, juicy chicken thighs bathed in a luxuriously smooth garlic-infused cream sauce that is both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this recipe promises a delightful mix of rich flavors and simple ingredients, making it an instant favorite in any household.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential in crafting the perfect balance of flavors and textures in the Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet Recipe. Each item plays a starring role, from the juicy chicken thighs providing hearty protein to the creamy sauce that wraps everything in silky goodness.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The perfect cut for a tender, juicy texture that absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For a golden sear and a subtle fruity depth in the pan.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a pungent, aromatic punch that defines the dish.
- 1 cup chicken stock: Builds a savory base for the sauce and helps deglaze the pan.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a little tang and complexity to the creamy sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A fragrant herb that lends warmth and an earthy note.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The star ingredient that creates the luscious, silky sauce.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional): For thickening the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A splash of vibrant green color and fresh flavor to brighten the dish.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by generously seasoning each chicken thigh with salt and pepper. This simple yet crucial step ensures every bite is flavorful. Don’t be shy with the seasoning — it really brings out the best in the meat.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down (if they had skin) or just down evenly, and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust. This searing locks in moisture and creates wonderful flavor through the caramelization of the meat’s surface. Once seared, remove the chicken and set it aside—don’t forget those flavorful browned bits left behind!
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook it quickly, about 30 seconds, until it turns fragrant but not burnt. This fresh garlic infusion is what sets the tone for the creamy sauce that’s coming your way.
Step 4: Create the Sauce Base
Pour in the chicken stock to deglaze the skillet, scraping up all those lovely browned bits from the bottom — this is where deep flavor comes from. Stir in the Dijon mustard and dried thyme, then bring everything to a gentle simmer. The Dijon adds a subtle bite while the thyme offers an earthy herbaceous note, making your sauce complex and layered.
Step 5: Simmer the Chicken
Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let everything simmer together for about 15 minutes. This slow cooking ensures the chicken cooks through perfectly and soaks up all the garlicky, creamy goodness surrounding it.
Step 6: Add the Cream
Uncover the skillet and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and become beautifully velvety. If you prefer an even thicker sauce, this is the time to whisk in your cornstarch slurry, cooking for another minute or two until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley over the chicken. This not only adds a cheerful pop of color but also a hint of fresh herbiness that perfectly balances the richness of the dish.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic choice to brighten up the dish visually and flavor-wise. You can also consider a little lemon zest for a zingy twist or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of savory goodness. The idea is to enhance the cream sauce without overpowering it.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides that soak up its luscious sauce. Think fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery rice, or even crusty bread to mop up every last bit of creamy garlic sauce. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad provide fresh contrasts and balance the richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive touch, serve the chicken atop a bed of creamy polenta or alongside garlic-infused pasta. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach directly in the skillet before finishing with cream to create a more complex, one-pan meal that’s bursting with flavor and color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover creamy garlic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep well for up to 3 days. The chicken will soak up even more flavors as it rests, making for a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to make this Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet Recipe ahead of time for busy days, it freezes splendidly. Pop the cooled dish into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the skillet gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to keep the creamy sauce smooth and avoid curdling. Adding a splash of chicken stock or cream during reheating can help refresh the sauce’s silky texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in the Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine, but thighs remain juicier and more forgiving, especially with this slow simmering method. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them to avoid dryness.
Is there a dairy-free way to make this creamy garlic chicken?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream alternative. These options offer creaminess without dairy but will slightly change the flavor profile.
How can I make the sauce thicker without cornstarch?
Simply simmer the sauce uncovered for a longer period to reduce and thicken it naturally. Alternatively, you can use a flour-based roux or add less liquid initially.
Can this recipe be made in advance for meal prep?
Definitely! The Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet Recipe tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Just store it properly and reheat gently when ready to enjoy.
What wine pairs well with Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet Recipe?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the creamy garlic sauce beautifully, enhancing the dish without overpowering its delicate flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet Recipe is one that I truly adore sharing because it brings together comfort and elegance in every bite. It’s straightforward enough for weeknights but special enough to impress guests. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a new favorite in your cooking repertoire—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet recipe features tender boneless chicken thighs simmered in a flavorful garlic-infused creamy sauce with Dijon mustard and thyme. Perfectly seared and simmered to juicy perfection, this comforting dish is quick to prepare and ideal for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Generously season the boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Deglaze the pan: Pour in the chicken stock while scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate all the flavor into the sauce.
- Add mustard and thyme: Stir in the Dijon mustard and dried thyme, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer the chicken: Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 15 minutes, ensuring it is cooked through.
- Incorporate cream: Stir in the heavy cream and simmer uncovered for an additional 3 to 4 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly and develop a creamy texture.
- Optional thickening: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top before serving. Serve the chicken hot for a delicious and comforting meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate chicken thighs in garlic and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use full-fat heavy cream for the best creamy texture.
- The cornstarch slurry is optional but recommended if you prefer a thicker sauce.
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
