This Easy Garlic Butter Creamed Corn Chicken is a tasty meal that everyone will love! Juicy chicken is cooked in a creamy garlic butter sauce with sweet corn for a cozy dish.
I think the best part is how quick it is to make—perfect for busy weeknights! Just cook the chicken, stir in the corn, and let it all come together in a buttery delight!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you need a quicker option, use thin chicken cutlets or even chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Bacon: I love the flavor that crispy bacon adds! If you prefer to skip it, consider using turkey bacon or smoked paprika for that smoky flavor without the meat.
Corn: Fresh corn gives the best sweetness, but frozen corn works really well, too. Canned corn is an option, but be sure to drain it first!
Cream: Heavy cream is what makes this dish rich and creamy, but half-and-half or a non-dairy cream can be substituted for a lighter version.
How Do You Make Sure Your Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken to the right temperature can be tricky! Here are some tips to nail it:
- Start with medium heat to avoid burning while ensuring the chicken cooks through.
- Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for perfectly juicy chicken.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep the juices inside!
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Sauce?
If you want a creamier sauce, thickening it is crucial. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix a small amount of all-purpose flour with cold water to create a slurry before adding it to prevent lumps.
- Add the flour gradually to the simmering mixture, stirring constantly until it thickens. This keeps things smooth!
- If you want a simpler method, just let it simmer longer. The sauce will naturally thicken as it reduces.
Easy Garlic Butter Creamed Corn Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Bacon and Sauce:
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 20 minutes in total! That includes about 10 minutes for prep work and another 10 minutes for cooking. Just a quick and easy meal that’s satisfying and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start off by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This ensures every bite is flavorful!
2. Cooking the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, but keep the tasty bacon fat in the skillet—it’s packed with flavor!
3. Cooking the Chicken:
Add the butter to the skillet with the bacon fat. Once melted, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Making the Garlic Corn Sauce:
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant—this is where the magic begins!
5. Adding the Corn:
Next, stir in the corn kernels and cook for about 3-4 minutes if using fresh corn, or until heated through if using frozen corn. This step adds that lovely sweetness!
6. Pouring in the Cream:
Now it’s time to bring in the cream! Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Bring it to a gentle simmer for all the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Final Seasoning:
Add in the fresh thyme and smoked paprika (if using), along with the crispy bacon pieces you set aside earlier to add crunch and additional flavor.
8. Thickening the Sauce:
If you’d like a thicker sauce, sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to combine. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
9. Bringing It All Together:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, placing them into the creamed corn mixture. Spoon some of that delicious sauce on top to keep everything moist and flavorful!
10. Final Simmer and Serve:
Allow everything to simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors and heat the chicken through. Garnish with extra thyme leaves and fresh black pepper if you like.
11. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve your creamy, garlicky chicken hot with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or some crusty bread. Your family and friends will love this comforting dish!
This savory, creamy dish combines tender garlic-butter chicken with luscious creamed corn and crispy bacon, creating a comforting, flavorful meal sure to please!
FAQ About Easy Garlic Butter Creamed Corn Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen corn is a great alternative and will save you time. Simply add it directly to the skillet and cook until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream. Just keep in mind that the consistency and flavor will slightly change.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce is too thick.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is cooked through but still tender.
