Name: Garlic Herb Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts (Trim any excess fat and pat dry before using.); 2 pounds russet potatoes (Peel and chop into even-sized pieces.); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (Chop finely to release flavors.); 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (Fresh is always best.); 4 cloves garlic, minced (Sauté until fragrant.); 3 tablespoons olive oil (Use to sear the chicken.); 1 cup chicken broth (Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.); ½ cup heavy cream (Stir in at the end for a smooth finish.); 2 tablespoons butter (Add for flavor and richness.); 2 tablespoons brown sugar (Adds a hint of sweetness.); 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (For acidity and depth.)

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Garlic Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that tantalizes your taste buds with its savory garlic and herb flavors. Picture it: tender chicken breasts infused with a delightful blend of olive oil, fresh parsley, and thyme, sautéed to a golden perfection. This dish not only looks stunning on your table but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. It’s perfect for family dinners, sunny barbecues, or even cozy gatherings with friends.

As you savor each bite, you’ll notice the perfect harmony of rich flavors and the crunch of roasted vegetables beside it. This article will guide you through creating this one-pan wonder effortlessly. From selecting the freshest ingredients to serving tips that impress, you’ll find everything you need to make Garlic Herb Chicken a new staple in your home cooking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that bring wonderful flavors.
Ease of Preparation: It’s a one-pan dish, making clean-up a breeze and preparation easy for any skill level.
Nutrition: Packed with protein and wholesome vegetables, it’s nutritious and satisfying.
Versatility: This dish pairs well with various sides and can be customized to suit your taste.
Presentation: The vibrant colors and aromas make it a showstopper for any meal.

You’ll find that this Garlic Herb Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also a joy to prepare and share.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total time: 40 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Note: Times may vary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Garlic Herb Chicken, start by selecting 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 4 cloves garlic minced, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, 2 tablespoons butter, 1 cup chicken broth, 2 pounds russet potatoes, ½ cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar.

Main Protein

What you use: Boneless skinless chicken breasts for their tenderness and ease of cooking.
How to prepare: Trim any excess fat and pat dry before using.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use chicken thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Tips: Make sure to let the chicken come to room temperature before cooking for even cooking.

Starch/Pasta

What you use: Russet potatoes, as they become wonderfully creamy and flavorful.
How to prepare: Peel and chop them into even-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, sweet potatoes or cauliflower rice work wonderfully.
Tips: Soak chopped potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, enhancing their creaminess when cooked.

Seasoning/Spice Blend

What you use: Fresh herbs like parsley and thyme for vibrant flavor.
How to prepare: Chop the herbs finely to release their flavors.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, dried herbs can be used, though fresh is always best.
Tips: Use fresh herbs whenever possible for the brightest flavors and aromas.

Liquids/Dairy

What you use: Olive oil and chicken broth to add moisture and richness.
How to prepare: Measure them out based on your recipe needs.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, vegetable broth or even wine can be used for depth of flavor.
Tips: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels in your dish.

Aromatics & Vegetables

What you use: Garlic and potatoes to enhance flavor and texture.
How to prepare: Mince garlic and chop potatoes into similar sizes.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, onions can be used instead of garlic for a sweeter note.
Tips: Sauté garlic until fragrant for the best flavor, but be careful not to burn it.

Optional Finishing Ingredients

What you use: Heavy cream adds a rich, creamy texture.
How to prepare: Stir it in at the end for a smooth finish.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, half-and-half or a dairy-free cream can work.
Tips: Stir in heavy cream off the heat to prevent curdling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Garlic Herb Chicken is simplified by its one-pan nature, making it easy to prepare and clean up.

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil and garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt. This step adds great depth to the dish.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth

Stir in the chopped potatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will soften the potatoes and infuse them with flavor. Cover the pan for 5-10 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Return Chicken and Herbs

Return the chicken to the pan, adding the fresh parsley, thyme, and butter. Cover the skillet and let everything cook together on low heat for about 10 minutes. This melds all the flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

Once the chicken is fully cooked, stir in the heavy cream, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes until thickened slightly. This step elevates the dish with a lovely, rich sauce.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Remove from heat and let the dish sit for a few minutes. This allows the sauce to settle. Plate it nicely, ensuring each serving has a piece of chicken and some potatoes, drizzling with sauce.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Dig in and enjoy your Garlic Herb Chicken! The tender chicken and creamy potatoes are sure to impress everyone at your table.

How to Serve

Presentation: Serve the chicken on a large platter, garnished with extra herbs.
Accompaniments: Pair with fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for balance.
Portions: One chicken breast per person is a good serving size, with potatoes as a side.
Beverage pairing: A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements this dish perfectly.

Enjoy your meal and the compliments to follow!

Additional Tips

Flavor enhancement: Use fresh herbs for an extra flavor boost.
Customization: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.
Serving suggestions: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Recipe Variations

Lemon Garlic Version: Add lemon juice and zest for a fresh citrus twist.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the sautéed garlic for added heat.
Herb Blend: Experiment with different fresh herbs like rosemary or basil for varied flavors.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Garlic Herb Chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Special Equipment

Large skillet
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

FAQ’s

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but they should be thawed completely before cooking for even cooking.
Is this dish healthy?
Yes, it contains lean protein and healthy fats from olive oil and butter.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything and store it in the refrigerator before cooking.
What if I want to customize the flavors?
Feel free to add your favorite spices or vegetables to make it your own.
Is there an alternative cooking method?
Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes instead of pan-searing.

Conclusion

In summary, Garlic Herb Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that combines health and flavor in each bite. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to impress family and friends with its rich aromas and vibrant colors. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, give this recipe a try—you’ll be delighted with the results!