Description
Creamy Garlic Chicken with Broccoli
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups steamed broccoli
Cooked rice (for serving)
Chopped green onions (for garnish)
Directions
Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). Remove and set aside.
Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 3-4 minutes. For a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch slurry and cook until it thickens.
Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the top, and simmer for 2 more minutes to coat.
Serve: Plate the chicken with steamed broccoli and rice, drizzle with extra sauce, and garnish with chopped green onions.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 350 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect results, follow these detailed instructions. After seasoning the chicken, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the oil to get a proper sear. When cooking the chicken, avoid moving it for the first few minutes to develop a golden crust. After removing the chicken, reduce the heat to medium before adding the butter to prevent the garlic from burning. When making the sauce, let it simmer gently to reduce and concentrate the flavors. The final simmer with the chicken allows it to reheat and fully absorb the creamy garlic sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy dish pairs beautifully with several sides. Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or buttery mashed potatoes. For extra vegetables, consider serving with roasted asparagus or a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garnish generously with fresh green onions or a sprinkle of parsley.
How-to Summary
Quickly create this family-friendly meal by searing seasoned chicken breasts until golden. Set them aside and use the same pan to build a luxurious sauce with garlic, broth, cream, and Dijon mustard. Thicken the sauce if desired, then return the chicken to the pan to coat. Serve immediately with steamed broccoli and your chosen starch for a complete, satisfying dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great substitute and will remain juicy. Adjust cooking time slightly as they may take a minute or two longer to cook through.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitute the butter with olive oil and use a full-fat coconut milk or a plain, unsweetened dairy-free cream alternative in place of the heavy cream.
What can I use if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
A teaspoon of whole-grain mustard or even a 1/2 teaspoon of regular yellow mustard can work in a pinch. It adds a necessary tang to balance the cream.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I prepare this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce 1-2 days in advance. Store it separately in the fridge and gently reheat it in a pan before adding freshly cooked chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: This leads to dry, tough meat. Use a meat thermometer and remove chicken from the pan at 165°F.
- Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly and turns bitter. Sauté it on medium heat for just 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Adding Cold Cream to a Hot Pan: Let the cream sit out for 10-15 minutes before using to prevent it from curdling when added to the simmering sauce.
- Crowding the Pan: Sear the chicken in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough. Crowding steams the chicken instead of creating a sear.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Chicken with Broccoli is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution, combining tender protein, vibrant vegetables, and a decadent sauce in one pan. Its simplicity belies its impressive flavor, making it a recipe you’ll return to again and again. With the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and customize it to your dietary needs. Give it a try tonight for a meal that is sure to become a new family favorite.