Garlic Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors and a comforting texture, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This chicken recipe promises a juicy main course that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
Why Make This Recipe
The combination of garlic and fresh herbs creates a flavorful marinade that seeps into the chicken, resulting in a dish that is both aromatic and delicious. Not only is Garlic Herb Chicken packed with flavor, but it’s also straightforward to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks alike. With its rich sauce and creamy mashed potatoes, this dish offers comfort food at its best, satisfying both the palate and the soul.
How to Make Garlic Herb Chicken
Creating Garlic Herb Chicken is both enjoyable and rewarding. The process involves marinating the chicken with aromatic herbs, searing it to perfection, and then creating a luscious sauce that complements the dish beautifully. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the step-by-step directions to achieve this mouth-watering meal.
Ingredients:
- 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
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Directions:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, chopped parsley, and thyme leaves. Rub this herb mixture all over the chicken breasts, pressing gently so it adheres to the meat. Let the chicken rest at room temperature for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the chicken breasts in the pan and sear without moving them for 5-6 minutes until a deep golden-brown crust forms. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-6 minutes. Add butter to the pan and baste the chicken with the melted butter and pan juices. Once the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, transfer chicken to a plate and tent with foil.
In the same skillet with the remaining drippings, add brown sugar and balsamic vinegar. Stir continuously over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and begins to caramelize, about 2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce reduces by half and becomes slightly syrupy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
While the chicken cooks, peel and cut the potatoes into evenly sized chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold salted water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain thoroughly and return the potatoes to the pot. Add butter and heavy cream, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate, creating a bed for the chicken. Place one chicken breast on top of the mashed potatoes. Drizzle the reduced pan sauce generously over the chicken and around the plate. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately while hot, ensuring each guest gets plenty of that delicious sticky glaze.
Pro Tips for Success with Garlic Herb Chicken
- Prep Ahead: You can marinate the chicken the night before, letting the flavors really sink in and making the cooking process faster the next day.
- Perfect Searing: Make sure the pan is hot enough before adding the chicken; this will create a beautiful golden crust.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To guarantee that your chicken is cooked perfectly and remains juicy, a thermometer should read 165°F.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to taste the sauce as it reduces; this will help you adjust the seasoning to your personal preference.
- Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to let the juices redistribute for a moist bite.
Flavor Variations for Garlic Herb Chicken
- Add Citrus: A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice can brighten the flavors, giving the dish a fresh and zesty twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give your chicken a spicy undertone.
- Herb Swaps: Try using different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil for varying flavors.
- Mushroom Addition: Consider adding sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a little cream cheese or goat cheese into the sauce for an extra creamy texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Herb Chicken
Garlic Herb Chicken can be paired wonderfully with various side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some suggestions:
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers for a healthy add-on.
- Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad drizzled with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty chicken and mashed potatoes.
- Rice or Quinoa: If you’re looking for an alternative to mashed potatoes, try serving the chicken over fluffy rice or quinoa for a different texture.
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: These vegetables add vibrant color, and their crunch pairs wonderfully with the soft textures of chicken and potatoes.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Garlic Herb Chicken
To store any leftovers of Garlic Herb Chicken, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
If you prefer to freeze the chicken, it’s best to do so without the mashed potatoes, as they might not retain their texture once thawed. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven to retain its moisture.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————–|————|
| Calories | 480 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Carbohydrates| 42g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 680mg |
FAQ About Garlic Herb Chicken
Can I make Garlic Herb Chicken with skin-on chicken?
Yes, you can absolutely use skin-on chicken breasts for this recipe. Just remember that the cooking time might be slightly longer due to the skin, which can affect the final dish’s texture. The skin will also add some additional crispiness and flavor.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option or are looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can use coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk thickened with a bit of cornstarch. This will yield a creamy texture without the heaviness of heavy cream.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Garlic Herb Chicken can be prepared a few hours in advance. You can season and marinate the chicken early in the day or even the night before. Just cook it fresh before serving for the best results.
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
This recipe works great with other cuts of chicken, such as thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the pieces you are using, as they may take longer to cook than chicken breasts.
How spicy is this dish?
This Garlic Herb Chicken is not spicy at all unless you add spicy elements like crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce. It’s designed to be savory and aromatic, appealing to a broad range of palates.
What wine pairs well with Garlic Herb Chicken?
A white wine such as a buttery Chardonnay or a crisp Pinot Grigio would pair beautifully with this dish. If you prefer red, a light-bodied Pinot Noir complements the flavors without overwhelming them.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Herb Chicken is a delightful meal that showcases the perfect balance of flavors while remaining simple to prepare. With its savory garlic and herb infusion, complemented by creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you choose to make it for a casual family night or during special gatherings, it’s guaranteed to impress. Try this recipe today and enjoy the warm, comforting taste of garlic herb-infused chicken alongside a heaping spoonful of mashed potatoes!
Print
Garlic Herb Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A delightful chicken dish featuring a savory garlic and herb marinade, served with creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
- 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
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Combine garlic, parsley, and thyme in a bowl; rub the mixture on the chicken.
- Let chicken rest for 10 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side.
- Add butter and baste the chicken; cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Transfer chicken to a plate and cover with foil.
- In the same skillet, add brown sugar and balsamic vinegar; cook until caramelized, then add chicken broth and simmer until reduced.
- Peel and cut potatoes; boil until fork-tender, then mash with butter and heavy cream.
- Serve chicken on a bed of mashed potatoes and drizzle with sauce.
Notes
Marinate the chicken overnight for enhanced flavor. Adjust seasoning according to taste during sauce reduction.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing / Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
