A plate of creamy garlic chicken is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Imagine tender chicken bathed in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, inviting you to dive right in with a fork and maybe a spoon if youβre feeling fancy. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, causing everyone nearby to mysteriously emerge from their rooms like moths to a flame. Itβs the kind of dish that makes you feel like a culinary genius, even if you still struggle with boiling water.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends. They arrived expecting takeout and instead found me proudly standing over the stove, channeling my inner chef. Their reactions were pricelessβwide eyes and murmurs of βWhat is this sorcery?β It was a hit! Now, we have βCreamy Garlic Chicken Nightβ as a regular event on our calendarsβbecause who wouldnβt want an excuse to indulge in all that garlicky goodness?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy garlic chicken recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and comes together in under 30 minutes
- The combination of garlic and cream creates a rich flavor profile that pleases every palate
- Visually appealing with its golden-brown chicken and creamy sauce, it looks gourmet but is simple enough for weeknight dinners
- Versatile enough to pair with rice, pasta, or veggies, itβs perfect for any occasion
I made this dish once for my family dinner, and it became an instant favoriteβthey still ask for it weekly!
Essential Ingredients
Hereβs what youβll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on how many people youβre feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm garlic cloves for the best flavor; fresh is always better than pre-minced.
- Heavy Cream: For that luscious sauce; donβt skimp hereβitβs all about the creaminess!
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness of the dish.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated cheese adds depth; feel free to add extra if youβre feeling indulgent.
- Olive Oil: For cooking the chicken; it adds flavor and helps prevent sticking.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): Chopped parsley adds color and freshness as a garnish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Letβs Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop the garlic finely so those aromatic flavors are ready to unleash.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on each sideβabout 6-7 minutes per side.
Add the Garlic: Once your chicken is cooked through (and smelling fabulous), reduce heat and toss in minced garlic. Stir until fragrantβabout 30 secondsβand watch out for that sizzling sound!
Create the Sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet along with chicken broth. Stir gently while scraping up any tasty bits stuck on the bottomβthis is where flavor lives!
Add Cheese & Simmer: Sprinkle grated Parmesan into your sauce and let it melt while simmering on low heat for about 5 minutes until thickened slightly.
Serve & Enjoy!: Plate your creamy garlic chicken over rice or pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley if desiredβand watch everyone swoon at dinnertime!
This creamy garlic chicken recipe has transformed countless weeknight dinners into something special without breaking a sweat in the kitchen! Enjoy every bite as you bask in compliments from family or friends who think youβre some sort of culinary wizard.
You Must Know
- Creamy garlic chicken is a versatile dish
- It pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or vegetables
- Adding fresh herbs enhances the flavor and aroma, creating an irresistible meal that delights everyone at the table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavors; then prepare your creamy sauce while the chicken cooks. This ensures everything is hot and ready together.
Add Your Touch
Customize your creamy garlic chicken with different herbs like thyme or basil, or add sautΓ©ed mushrooms for extra texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid curdling the cream.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To make your creamy garlic chicken even better, use fresh garlic for a stronger flavor
- Donβt rush the searing process; itβs crucial for taste
- Always taste your sauce before servingβit might need a touch more seasoning!
Creating my creamy garlic chicken recipe was a game-changer during dinner parties; everyone loved it, and I couldnβt stop smiling when they asked for seconds.
FAQ
What can I serve with creamy garlic chicken?
Creamy garlic chicken pairs well with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! This recipe works wonderfully with turkey or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
How do I make it dairy-free?
Substituting coconut cream or almond milk can create a delicious dairy-free version of creamy garlic chicken.
PrintCreamy Garlic Chicken Recipe β Easy & Delicious
This Creamy Garlic Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish made with tender chicken breasts in a luscious, creamy garlic sauce. The sauce is infused with the savory depth of garlic and a touch of Parmesan cheese, creating the perfect complement to the juicy chicken. This dish is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Serve it with rice, pasta, or vegetables for a complete, comforting meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165Β°F/75Β°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
- Add the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, thyme, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top.
- Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve the creamy garlic chicken with your choice of side dishes and enjoy!
Notes
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing Instructions: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
- Side Suggestions: This creamy garlic chicken pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, pasta, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad.
- Add-ins: Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
Keywords: Creamy Garlic Chicken, garlic chicken recipe, chicken in garlic cream sauce, easy creamy chicken, garlic parmesan chicken, chicken with creamy sauce, one-pan creamy chicken, flavorful chicken dinner, garlic chicken skillet, comfort food chicken recipe.