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Cheesy Garlic Chicken

Cheesy Garlic Chicken


  • Author: Melanie
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

In this article, we will walk you through everything you need to know about making Cheesy Garlic Chicken. From the ingredients and detailed instructions to tips for perfecting the dish and ideas for variations, this comprehensive guide will help you create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Let’s dive in!


Ingredients

  • Chicken Ingredients:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds or 680 grams)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for pan-searing the chicken)

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for extra richness)

  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder (or freshly minced garlic if preferred)

  • Cheese Sauce Ingredients:
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (120 grams)

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 grams)

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional for extra flavor)

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)


Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Pound the Chicken: To ensure even cooking, place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays tender.

Season the Chicken: Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt and pepper.

Cook the Chicken:

Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Wait until the butter has melted and is bubbling before adding the chicken.

Sear the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate. Cover loosely with foil and set aside while you make the sauce.

 Make the Cheesy Garlic Sauce:

Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.

Add the Cream: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the cream to thicken slightly.

Melt the Cheese: Gradually add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring until fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy.

Season the Sauce: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning (optional) for an added flavor boost. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.

 Combine Chicken with Sauce:

Return the Chicken to the Skillet: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet with the sauce. Spoon the cheesy sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s fully coated.

Simmer: Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for 3-5 minutes so the flavors meld together and the chicken is heated through.

 Garnish and Serve:

Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken for a touch of color and freshness.

Serve Immediately: Serve the cheesy garlic chicken hot, ideally with a side of mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfecting the Dish:

Even Thickness: Ensure your chicken breasts are even in thickness for uniform cooking. You can also butterfly the chicken breasts if you prefer them thinner.

Cream Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to adjust the consistency to your liking.

Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Try adding cheddar for a sharper flavor or provolone for a more mild and smoky taste.

 

Notes

Preparation Tips:

Even Chicken Thickness: Make sure to pound or butterfly the chicken to an even thickness. This ensures that it cooks evenly, stays tender, and avoids dry spots.

Fresh Garlic: While garlic powder can be used in a pinch, freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor and aroma. You can adjust the amount of garlic based on your taste preference.

Butter and Oil Combination: Using both butter and oil for cooking the chicken helps achieve a golden-brown crust while adding richness to the dish.

Cooking Tips:

Temperature Control: When searing the chicken, keep the heat at medium-high. This allows the chicken to develop a nice golden crust without burning the butter or garlic.

Sauce Consistency: If the cheesy sauce gets too thick, thin it out with a bit of milk or chicken broth, and stir until smooth.

Storage and Conservation:

Refrigeration: Leftover Cheesy Garlic Chicken should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken (wrapped well in plastic wrap or foil, then placed in a freezer-safe bag). It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. Be sure to reheat thoroughly when ready to eat.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop with a little added cream or milk, or in the microwave, covered with a damp paper towel to avoid drying out.

Variations:

Add Spinach: Add fresh spinach to the sauce to incorporate more nutrients and color.

Bacon Addition: For extra flavor, sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top of the chicken before serving.

Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or fresh chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables to soak up the cheesy sauce.

Garlic bread is a great accompaniment, as it helps mop up any leftover sauce.

For a lighter meal, serve with a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the dish.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American / Comfort Food

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 Chicken Breast with Sauce
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 45g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg

Keywords: Cheesy Garlic Chicken, Chicken, Garlic, Comfort Food, Easy Chicken Recipe