Creamy Garlic Chicken – Rich, Flavorful, and Easy to Make

Introduction

When you need a satisfying dinner that feels restaurant-worthy but takes under 30 minutes, Creamy Garlic Chicken delivers every time. Juicy, golden-seared chicken simmered in a luscious garlic cream sauce — it’s indulgent, comforting, and made with simple ingredients.

Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions, this dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or even sautéed greens. The creamy texture and savory garlic aroma make it irresistible from the first bite.

Ingredients Overview

This recipe is all about building flavor from a handful of everyday ingredients.

For the Chicken:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Choose chicken breasts for a leaner option or thighs for more juiciness.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential base seasoning.
• Garlic Powder: Enhances the garlic flavor in the meat itself.
• Olive Oil or Butter: For searing the chicken to a golden brown.

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• Fresh Garlic: The star of the show. Use 4–6 cloves, finely minced or grated.
• Heavy Cream: Creates the rich, velvety base. You can sub with half-and-half, but it will be slightly thinner.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth and balances richness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds saltiness and body to the sauce.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the garlic beautifully.
• Fresh Parsley: Optional, for garnish and a pop of color.

Optional Additions:

• Mushrooms: Sauté with the garlic for extra umami.
• Spinach or Kale: Stir into the sauce for a green boost.
• Lemon Juice or Zest: A splash at the end brightens the flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare and Season the Chicken

• Pat 1 ½ lbs of chicken dry. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.

2. Sear the Chicken

• Heat 2 tbsp olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add chicken and sear 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F).
• Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

• Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp butter and 4–6 minced garlic cloves.
• Sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
• Pour in ¾ cup chicken broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
• Add 1 cup heavy cream and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.
• Sprinkle in 1 tsp Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

4. Simmer the Sauce

• Let sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

5. Return Chicken to the Skillet

• Nestle the chicken back into the sauce.
• Simmer 2–3 more minutes until chicken is heated through and coated.

6. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Thicken Sauce More: Simmer uncovered longer or add 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free parmesan alternatives.
• Use Bone-In Chicken: Increase cook time and finish in the oven at 375°F until fully cooked.
• Add Vegetables: Mushrooms, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or asparagus work beautifully.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

• Serve With:
  • Creamy mashed potatoes
  • Buttered noodles or pasta
  • Steamed rice or cauliflower rice
  • Roasted vegetables
• Perfect For:
  • Weeknight dinners
  • At-home date nights
  • Holiday meals with minimal prep

The sauce is so rich and flavorful, you’ll want something on the side to soak up every drop.

Nutritional & Health Notes

Per Serving (1 of 4):

• Calories: ~460
• Protein: ~30g
• Fat: ~32g
• Carbs: ~6g
• High in Protein: Great for low-carb, keto-friendly diets.
• Adjustable Richness: Use half-and-half or lower-fat cream to reduce calories if needed.
• Balanced with Veggies: Add greens or pair with a light salad to complete the meal.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
A1: Yes. It will result in a slightly thinner sauce, but still creamy and delicious.

Q2: How do I avoid curdling the sauce?
A2: Keep the heat to medium when adding cream, and avoid boiling it rapidly.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A3: Yes. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream.

Q4: Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken?
A4: It’s best fresh, as cream-based sauces can separate. If freezing, reheat slowly and whisk sauce to bring it back together.

Q5: What’s the best pan to use?
A5: A large stainless steel or cast iron skillet gives the best sear and flavor, but nonstick will also work.

Q6: Can I add pasta directly to the sauce?
A6: Yes! Add cooked pasta to the sauce before returning the chicken. It soaks up flavor beautifully.

Q7: What herbs go well with this dish?
A7: Parsley, thyme, and basil all complement the garlic and cream sauce wonderfully.

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