If you are craving something that feels both indulgent and comforting, this Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need to add to your weeknight dinner rotation. Tender chicken breasts bathed in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, flavored with Parmesan and Italian herbs, create a dish that is as simple as it is stunning. The rich sauce perfectly balances savory garlic and fresh spices, making every bite an irresistible experience. Whether you’re cooking for family or feeding guests, this recipe always impresses with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem straightforward, but each one plays a vital role in building the bold, creamy flavors that make this dish shine. From the fresh garlic’s punch to the Parmesan’s nutty richness, every component contributes to the perfect texture and vibrant taste.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The tender protein base that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken to a beautiful golden crust and adding depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: The star of the recipe, infusing the sauce with inviting aroma and sharpness.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and a savory backbone to the sauce when deglazing the pan.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, rich texture that defines the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a salty tang and melts smoothly for a luscious finish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of dried basil, oregano, and thyme that adds an herby complexity.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning the chicken and balancing the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh herbal note at the end.
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional): For an extra layer of richness and luxurious mouthfeel in the sauce.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. When the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook it undisturbed for 6 to 7 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms and the meat is cooked through and juicy. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. This step locks in moisture and forms the flavorful base for your creamy sauce.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Sauce
Using the same skillet (don’t clean it yet, because those flavorful browned bits are pure gold), add the minced garlic. Stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant but be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter. This gentle cooking releases the garlic’s essential oils that will infuse the entire dish with aroma and flavor.
Step 3: Add Liquids
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan—this is where the deep flavor lives. Allow the broth to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so it reduces slightly, concentrating the savory notes for your sauce.
Step 4: Add the Cream and Parmesan
Next, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce gently simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will see it thicken into a velvety, creamy coating perfect for spooning. If it seems too thick for your liking, simply add a splash more chicken broth or cream to loosen it up and keep it gorgeous and silky.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon some sauce over each breast and simmer everything together for another 3 to 5 minutes to meld the flavors beautifully and heat the chicken through again. If you want to raise the richness factor, stir in a tablespoon of butter to melt into the sauce at this stage—it adds a dreamy silkiness that feels downright luxurious.
Step 6: Serve
Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken to add a pop of color and a fresh herbal brightness that contrasts perfectly with the creamy sauce.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice to brighten both flavor and presentation. For a little more texture and visual appeal, you can also add a few lemon zest curls or a drizzle of good quality olive oil just before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the sauce like a dream, while al dente pasta creates a comforting, hearty meal. Lighter options like steamed green beans or roasted asparagus offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning dinner table center, plate the chicken on a bed of sautéed spinach or baby kale. You can also serve it over fluffy cauliflower rice or polenta for a low-carb twist. Adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds right on top gives both an unexpected crunch and elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover creamy garlic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce tends to thicken as it chills, so it’s best to gently reheat to restore its smooth texture before serving again.
Freezing
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe freezes well, making it ideal for meal prep. Freeze cooked chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently over low-medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid high heat to keep the cream from breaking and the chicken tender.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work beautifully and add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust your cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese, but expect a slightly less rich sauce. Coconut milk is a dairy-free alternative but will add a subtle coconut flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your chicken broth and Italian seasoning don’t contain any hidden gluten ingredients. Always check labels to be safe.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
You can make the garlic cream sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, reheat gently and add the freshly cooked chicken to warm through.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir complements the creamy garlic sauce nicely, enhancing the rich flavors without overwhelming the palate.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe is one of those gems that feels special yet is so easy to make, bringing warmth and comfort to any meal you share it with. I encourage you to try it soon—once you taste the combination of tender chicken and that dreamy garlic cream sauce, it might just become your new favorite go-to dinner.
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Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender, pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a rich and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce enhanced with Italian seasoning. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe pairs beautifully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garlic Cream Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Make the Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the broth simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the Cream and Parmesan: Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. If the sauce gets too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
- Finish the Dish: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some of the sauce over them, and simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through and absorb some of the flavors. For an extra creamy texture, add 1 tablespoon of butter to the sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with your favorite side, such as pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- If sauce thickens too much, thin it out with extra chicken broth or cream.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat cream.
- Fresh garlic can be substituted with garlic powder if needed, but fresh provides the best flavor.
- This dish pairs well with a variety of sides like rice, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread.
