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Creamy Garlic Chicken

A cozy and indulgent chicken dish with a creamy garlic sauce that's perfect for quick dinners and special occasions alike.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds) or thighs for juicier results
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for warmth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced use more if you love garlic
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped or half a small onion
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a lighter version
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese can be swapped for Pecorino Romano
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard optional, for tang
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 1 cup baby spinach or a handful of chopped kale
  • fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
  3. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
  4. Transfer the chicken to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
  5. Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet.
  6. Add sliced garlic and shallot; sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and soft.
  7. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the pan.
  8. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes.
  9. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over it, simmer for 2 minutes until everything is hot.
  10. Stir in the spinach until wilted and adjust seasoning. Finish with chopped parsley.

Notes

You can store leftovers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. The sauce may thicken; add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to loosen it.