Oh boy, do I have a delicious treat for you today! Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite comfort foods: Garlic Chicken with Asiago Gravy. Honestly, this dish is like a shower of flavor on a gloomy day—or a warm hug after a tough week. Picture this: succulent chicken coated in garlicky goodness, all smothered in a rich, creamy gravy that’s speckled with the delightful sharpness of Asiago cheese. It’s total soul food!
I remember the first time I made this dish. I was hosting a dinner party for some friends and wanted to impress them. Of course, I was a little nervous, but as soon as I started cooking, all my worries melted away. The aroma of garlic filled the kitchen, drawing everyone in and sparking excited chatter. By the end of the night, my friends were begging for the recipe, and I realized it was destined to be a staple in my kitchen. So, let’s dive in!
What’s in Garlic Chicken with Asiago Gravy?
Chicken Breasts: The star of the dish! I prefer using skinless, boneless chicken breasts for a healthy, lean option, but you could easily swap in thighs for a juicier bite.
Garlic: A must-have! Fresh garlic brings the flavor to life, creating that mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen with love.
Asiago Cheese: This sharp cheese is what makes the gravy sing. You could use freshly grated for the best taste, but pre-grated works too in a pinch.
Heavy Cream: It’s all about that creaminess! This helps in creating a rich, luxurious gravy that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
Chicken Broth: I like low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish better. It adds warmth and depth to the gravy.
Butter: Because what’s better than adding a little butter to bring everything together and create that silky sauce?
Flour: This is your thickening agent for the gravy, giving it that luscious texture.
Seasoning: Salt, black pepper, and a touch of paprika for a bit of warmth. Feel free to adjust to your taste!
Is Garlic Chicken with Asiago Gravy Good for You?
Let’s be honest here. While this dish is incredibly tasty and satisfying, it’s a bit indulgent due to the cream and butter. But hey, everything in moderation, right?
Chicken Breasts: A great source of lean protein that’s essential for muscle repair and growth. Plus, it’s low in fat!
Garlic: Not only does it add flavor, but it’s also known to have many health benefits, including boosting your immune system and reducing blood pressure.
Asiago Cheese: This beautiful cheese does pack some calories, but it’s also high in calcium and protein, so it can be part of a balanced diet.
If you’re watching your calorie intake, consider serving this hearty dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to help balance it out. You could also modify the recipe to use less cream or switch to a lighter cheese.
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (serves 4)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup freshly grated Asiago cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
How to Make Garlic Chicken with Asiago Gravy?
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and paprika on both sides.
2. **Sear the Chicken:** In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chicken breasts and sauté until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes per side). Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. **Make the Gravy:** In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
4. **Whisk in Flour:** Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and whisk constantly for about a minute until it thickens.
5. **Add the Broth and Cream:** Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and then the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer and stirring constantly until thickened.
6. **Cheesy Goodness:** Stir in the grated Asiago cheese until melted and well combined. If the sauce is too thick, you can always add a bit more broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
7. **Return the Chicken:** Nestle the chicken back into the gravy, allowing it to reheat and soak up those delicious flavors for an additional 5 minutes.
8. **Serve and Enjoy:** Plate the chicken with a generous spoonful of gravy over the top, and don’t forget to garnish with some extra Asiago or fresh herbs if you like!
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Chicken with Asiago Gravy
Alright, my fellow food enthusiasts! To elevate your Garlic Chicken, consider serving it over a fluffy bed of mashed potatoes or pasta to soak up that creamy gravy, or maybe even with some crusty bread for dipping. You could also add a side of grilled asparagus or sautéed greens for some color and nutrition. And if you want to get really fancy, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme on top elevates the dish’s presentation and taste!
I promise you, once you try this dish, it’ll become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, put on your apron, and get ready to impress your taste buds (and maybe some friends too). If you make this Garlic Chicken with Asiago Gravy, please let me know how it turns out—I can’t wait to hear all about it! Happy cooking!
