This Easy Garlic Butter Creamed Corn Chicken is a cozy dish packed with flavor! Tender chicken is cooked in a creamy garlic butter sauce with sweet corn that makes every bite comforting.
You know it’s a winner when dinner is ready in just 30 minutes! I love serving this over mashed potatoes or rice—it’s the kind of meal that makes everyone smile. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great here. If you need a substitute, consider chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness. You can also use turkey breasts if you’re looking for a leaner option.
Bacon: Bacon adds a delightful crunch, but if you’re aiming for a healthier version, turkey bacon or pancetta works well too. For a plant-based option, try using mushroom bacon or simply omit it.
Creamed Corn: Using canned creamed corn is super easy. If you’re making your own, just blend cooked corn with a bit of cream. You could use frozen corn too; just cook it down until it thickens.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, half-and-half works as a substitute. You can even use coconut cream for a dairy-free option that still provides richness.
Thyme: Fresh thyme is fantastic, but if you only have dried thyme, reduce the amount by half as it’s more concentrated. Other herbs like rosemary or parsley can also brighten the flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Tender?
Cooking chicken can be tricky—overcooking can lead to dryness! Here are some tips to keep it moist:
- Start with chicken at room temperature—this helps it cook evenly.
- Don’t skip seasoning! Salt and pepper enhance the flavor and texture.
- Use a meat thermometer. Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing, so juices redistribute.
Easy Garlic Butter Creamed Corn Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices bacon
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups creamed corn (canned or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This flavorful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once it’s done, remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once it has cooled, chop or break the bacon into smaller pieces and set it aside.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In the same skillet, add the olive oil and butter, mixing with the leftover bacon drippings for added flavor. When the butter has melted and is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute or until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
5. Make the Creamed Corn Sauce:
In the same skillet, stir in the creamed corn, heavy cream, chicken broth, and thyme leaves. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to combine all the flavors.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top so they’re nicely coated.
7. Add the Bacon:
Add the crispy bacon pieces to the skillet and mix gently into the sauce, ensuring everything is well combined.
8. Simmer and Season:
Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors and allow the sauce to thicken a bit. Give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish with extra fresh thyme and a sprinkle of black pepper. This dish pairs wonderfully over mashed potatoes, rice, or with some crusty bread to soak up that delicious creamy garlic butter sauce. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Creamed Corn Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quicker results. Pat them dry before seasoning to allow for better browning.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Let everything cool before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream to refresh the sauce if it thickens too much.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy chicken dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, cooked rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
