Description
This Indulgent Creamy Garlic Sauce with Grilled Chicken Bites recipe features tender grilled chicken pieces tossed in a rich and velvety garlic cream sauce. Perfectly seasoned and quick to prepare, this dish combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with a luscious creamy sauce infused with fresh garlic and Parmesan cheese, garnished with vibrant parsley for a delightful finishing touch. Ideal for a comforting yet elegant meal in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 pieces Chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces (Use breast for leaner bites, thighs for juicier options.)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (Helps achieve a golden crust during cooking; can substitute with vegetable oil.)
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor; adjust based on broth saltiness.)
- 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adds mild heat.)
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced (Fresh garlic is recommended for optimal taste.)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (Can use half-and-half for a lighter version.)
- 0.5 cup Chicken Broth (Low-sodium optional for controlling salt levels.)
- 2 tablespoons Butter (A dairy-free alternative works for lactose-free versions.)
- 0.25 cup Parmesan Cheese, optional (Nutritional yeast can substitute for a vegan option.)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped (Can swap with other herbs like basil for a different flavor.)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Begin by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear. Season the chicken with olive oil, salt, and black pepper, coating evenly to enhance flavor and crust formation.
- Grill Chicken: Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat for approximately 5 minutes. Grill the seasoned chicken pieces for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust and are fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure safety and juiciness.
- Sauté Garlic: In a separate skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and just turning golden, being careful not to burn it as it could cause bitterness.
- Make Sauce: Deglaze the skillet by adding the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom for added flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to cook while stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly, creating a rich, velvety texture.
- Toss Chicken in Sauce: Return the grilled chicken bites back into the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce. Add the Parmesan cheese if using and gently toss to coat all pieces evenly. Let it simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens further.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately, ensuring each bite of chicken is smothered in the creamy garlic sauce for maximum indulgence.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half and chicken thighs with chicken breasts.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to better control the salt level in the sauce.
- Butter can be replaced with a dairy-free alternative for lactose intolerance.
- Parmesan cheese is optional; nutritional yeast can be used to maintain a cheesy flavor for vegan adaptations.
- Ensure the grill pan is preheated well to get a good sear on the chicken.
- Do not overcook garlic to avoid bitterness; sauté until just fragrant and lightly golden.
