This Garlic Butter Creamed Corn Chicken is a tasty dish that combines juicy chicken with sweet creamed corn and rich garlic butter. It’s comforting and packed with flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for their quick cooking time. If you’re looking for a swap, try using thighs for a juicier bite or even turkey cutlets for a different flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove. Don’t skip this step – garlic is key to that lovely taste!
Creamed Corn: You can use canned or fresh creamed corn. If you can’t find creamed corn, blend whole corn with a bit of cream until smooth as a substitute. It might change the texture slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the dish. If you want a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk. Just keep the consistency in mind; it might not be as creamy.
Parmesan Cheese: This is optional, but it adds a nice salty note. If you want a non-dairy option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without dairy. Or, use your favorite cheese instead!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to keep it juicy. First, don’t overcook it! A good rule of thumb is 165°F internal temperature. Secondly, letting the chicken rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute.
- Season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking for better flavor.
- Sear the chicken in hot oil to lock in moisture—don’t move it around too much!
- Remove it when it’s golden, then cover it while you make the sauce. This keeps it warm.
These little tips can make a big difference in how delicious your dish turns out!
How to Make Garlic Butter Creamed Corn Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup creamed corn (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Butter Creamed Corn Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook. So in about 30-35 minutes, you’ll have a tasty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This helps to enhance the flavors of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on one side, then flip them and cook for another 5-6 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Add Corn and Cream
Next, stir in the creamed corn and the heavy cream, mixing everything well. Cook this mixture for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. This is when the flavors really start to develop!
5. Finish the Sauce
If you’re using Parmesan cheese, add it now along with the dried or fresh thyme. Stir everything to combine, so the cheese melts into the sauce and adds creaminess.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some of that delicious sauce over the top of the chicken and let them cook together for another 2 minutes. This helps the chicken absorb all those wonderful flavors!
7. Serve and Garnish
To finish, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy, garlicky chicken with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed veggies!
This dish is sure to impress family and friends. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the chicken thoroughly before cooking. The best way to do this is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight or to submerge it in cold water in a sealed bag for a quick thaw. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking to ensure it browns nicely.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken a few hours in advance. Just store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat and warm the sauce separately to avoid overcooking the chicken.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring the sauce occasionally for even heating. If the sauce thickens too much, you can add a splash of cream or broth to bring it back to the desired consistency.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk. Keep in mind that it might not be as rich, but it will still taste great! If you want a dairy-free substitute, try using coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
