Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a rich, comforting dish that feels homey but also a little fancy, this Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It combines tender chicken breasts bathed in a velvety garlic-infused cream sauce, with hints of Parmesan and Italian herbs that add layers of flavor. Perfectly simple to make yet indulgently satisfying, this recipe brings together everyday ingredients to create a dish that everyone will rave about at the dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe is essential, but don’t worry—they’re all straightforward and work together to build a harmony of creamy, garlicky goodness. Each element plays an important role, from the savory chicken breasts to the luscious Parmesan cheese that gives the sauce that irresistible depth.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing tender, juicy protein that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For perfectly searing the chicken with a slight crisp on the outside.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic, robust flavor that’s impossible to resist.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps deglaze the pan to capture all those delicious browned bits.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, silky texture that defines this Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty richness that elevates the sauce to something special.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of dried basil, oregano, and thyme to brighten and balance the creaminess.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of fresh color and a mild herbaceous note at the end.
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional): For an extra touch of richness if you want to take that creamy sauce to the next level.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by heating the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides—that’s where a lot of the flavor begins. Once the skillet is hot, place the chicken in and let it cook undisturbed for about 6-7 minutes per side. You want a golden-brown crust that locks in all those juicy juices. When it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), remove the chicken and set it aside for now.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Sauce

Use the same skillet to keep all those lovely browned bits in play. Add the minced garlic and cook on medium heat for 1-2 minutes until the aroma fills your kitchen. Be careful here because garlic burns quickly, and burnt garlic would add unwanted bitterness. Stir constantly to keep it just right.

Step 3: Add Liquids

Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan. This means scraping up all those tasty seared bits stuck to the skillet bottom. Let the broth simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly, intensifying the flavor of the base sauce before it gets creamy.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Parmesan

Now, the magic moment—stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. This combination transforms the broth into that rich, velvety sauce you’re after. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. If it feels too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash more broth or cream to loosen it up just the way you like.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon some sauce over the top and let everything simmer gently for another 3-5 minutes so the chicken can soak up those garlicky, creamy flavors. For an ultra indulgent touch, stir in a tablespoon of butter at this stage to make the sauce even silkier and more luscious.

Step 6: Serve

Once everything is perfectly warmed through and smelling heavenly, garnish with fresh parsley and get ready to serve this Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe that’s sure to impress everyone at your table.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a fresh, mild herbal brightness that cuts through the richness of the sauce, balancing every bite. If you want a little extra zing, a light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes or lemon zest can add an exciting twist.

Side Dishes

This dish loves good company, so consider pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes for a soul-warming combo or freshly cooked pasta that can soak up every drop of that incredible garlic cream sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus offer a lovely crisp contrast and add a vibrant color punch to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, slice the chicken breasts and fan them out on the plate, spooning the sauce over each slice. Serve alongside a swirl of garlic mashed potatoes topped with chives, or arrange on a bed of wilted spinach to incorporate some greens directly on your plate. Another fun idea is to stuff the chicken breasts with mozzarella and herbs before cooking, adding an ooey-gooey surprise inside that your guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This creamy garlic chicken keeps very well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the chicken and sauce together in an airtight container to preserve all those luscious flavors.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream sauce from separating. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream during reheating can help restore that gorgeous creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and slightly deeper flavor but may require a little longer cooking time to reach the safe internal temperature.

Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?

You can swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will be a little different but still delicious.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the cream sauce a bit longer to reduce further, or stir in a small slurry of cornstarch and water. Just be sure to add it gradually and stir constantly to avoid lumps.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes! Adding mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes during the sauce-making step works wonderfully and boosts both flavor and nutrition.

What wine pairs well with Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe?

A crisp Chardonnay or a light Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy richness and herbal notes perfectly, offering a lovely balance to the dish.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe has quickly become a go-to comfort dish in my kitchen, and I truly believe it will earn a special place on your table as well. With its rich, garlicky sauce and perfectly cooked chicken, it’s an inviting, satisfying meal that’s easier to prepare than you might think. Give it a try and get ready to enjoy some serious, creamy deliciousness!

Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

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4.1 from 30 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delicious and comforting dish featuring juicy, pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a rich and flavorful garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe combines tender chicken with a savory sauce made from fresh garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Italian seasoning, garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of brightness.

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Ingredients

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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)

Garnish

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with your favorite side, such as pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

Notes

• Make sure the chicken breasts are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• If you prefer a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream, but it will be less rich.
• Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
• Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best taste and texture.
• This dish pairs well with a side of pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian-American