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Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

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4.1 from 62 reviews

This Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe features tender, golden-browned chicken thighs cooked in a flavorful blend of spices and finished in a rich, cheesy garlic cream sauce. Quick and easy, it’s perfect for a comforting dinner served with garnish of fresh cilantro for a pop of freshness.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1.5 pound chicken thighs (boneless and skinless)
  • 1½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (for frying the chicken)

<h4 Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 cup half & half
  • ¼ cup shredded parmesan
  • 12-20 sprigs cilantro (finely minced)

Instructions

  1. Season Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to remove moisture, which helps in searing properly. In a bowl, mix together 1½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, and ½ teaspoon cumin. Season both sides of the chicken evenly with the spice mixture.
  2. Cook Chicken: Heat a pan or pot over medium-high heat until it starts to lightly smoke. Add 1 tablespoon neutral oil, then place the seasoned chicken thighs in the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until both sides are beautifully browned. Remove the chicken and place it on a separate plate. Reduce the heat to low.
  3. Make Creamy Garlic Sauce: In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon unsalted butter and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in 1 cup half & half, stirring occasionally to combine with the garlic and butter. Next, add ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese and continue to stir occasionally, keeping the heat low to prevent curdling. Once the cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened, return the chicken thighs along with any juices back into the pan. Cook everything together for 1 more minute to let the flavors meld.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the finely minced fresh cilantro over the creamy garlic chicken for a burst of color and fresh herbal flavor before serving.

Notes

  • Patting chicken dry is essential for a good sear and browning.
  • Use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil for frying to avoid overpowering flavors.
  • Keep the heat low while making the sauce to prevent the cream from curdling.
  • Half & half can be substituted with heavy cream for a richer sauce or milk for a lighter version, but adjust cooking time to thicken accordingly.
  • Leftover chicken and sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.

Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/creamy-garlic-chicken-recipe/