Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, satisfying meal that's also quick and easy to make? Then look no further! This cheesy garlic chicken recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s packed with flavor, incredibly satisfying, and comes together in under 30 minutes. This healthy meal is perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts seeking easy recipes and delicious dishes. Get ready to impress your family with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Melt the butter: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make it bitter.
- Cook the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step helps develop the flavor of the chicken.
- Make the roux: Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and garlic, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will thicken the sauce.
- Add the liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer and melt cheese: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season and serve: Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. This cheesy garlic chicken makes a perfect quick dinner idea.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Garlic Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the chicken, work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic provides the best flavor. If you're short on time, you can use pre-minced garlic from a jar, but the fresh stuff is always better.
- Adjust the seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a richer flavor.
- Thicken the sauce: If the sauce is too thin after simmering, you can whisk in a tablespoon or two of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to thicken it up.
Variations:
- Spicy Cheesy Garlic Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Cheesy Garlic Chicken: Substitute heavy cream for half of the milk for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Vegetable Cheesy Garlic Chicken: Add your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, peas, or mushrooms, during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This cheesy garlic chicken recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes achievable through simple homemade cooking. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your preferences and dietary needs, making it a perfect addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy!