Creamy Garlic Chicken – Rich, Juicy & Ready in 30 Minutes

Introduction

This creamy garlic chicken is a dreamy, one-skillet dinner featuring golden-seared chicken breasts nestled in a silky, garlicky cream sauce. It’s rich, savory, and deeply satisfying — the kind of comfort food you crave after a long day.

Made with simple pantry staples like garlic, cream, chicken broth, and a hint of Parmesan, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes. The chicken stays juicy and tender, while the sauce is luscious enough to spoon over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice. It’s easy enough for a weeknight, but elegant enough to serve to guests.

If you’re looking for a reliable, creamy chicken recipe that’s guaranteed to please, this is it.

Ingredients Overview

Each ingredient plays a role in building deep flavor while keeping the prep quick and easy.

Chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal here. Slice them in half horizontally (butterfly style) for faster cooking and more surface area to sear.
• Chicken thighs also work — they’re juicier but may take slightly longer to cook.

Tip: Pat chicken dry before searing for the best golden crust.

Garlic

Fresh garlic cloves (not pre-minced or jarred) are essential. This recipe uses 5–6 cloves, sautéed until fragrant but not browned, creating the base of the sauce.

Roasting the garlic first is optional, but will add a sweet, mellow depth.

Cream

• Heavy cream creates the richest texture and balances the garlic’s sharpness.
• Half-and-half works as a lighter option but may not thicken as well.
• Avoid milk — it will curdle or thin the sauce too much.

Chicken Broth

Adds savory depth and helps loosen the sauce so it’s not overly thick. Use low-sodium broth to better control the seasoning.

Parmesan Cheese (Optional)

A small handful of grated Parmesan adds umami and richness to the sauce. It also helps thicken and adds a touch of saltiness.

Seasonings

• Salt & black pepper – for balance
• Italian seasoning or dried thyme – optional, for added flavor
• Fresh parsley or chives – for garnish and a pop of color

Butter & Oil

• Butter for richness
• Olive oil for a higher smoke point when searing

Step-by-Step Instructions

This dish cooks quickly, so have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start.

1. Prepare and Season the Chicken

• Slice 2 large chicken breasts in half horizontally to create 4 cutlets.
• Season both sides with salt, pepper, and (optional) a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add chicken cutlets in a single layer.
• Cook 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
• Remove and set aside on a plate; tent with foil to keep warm.

3. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 5–6 garlic cloves, minced

Sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant — do not brown.

Whisk in:

• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Simmer for 1–2 minutes, scraping up browned bits

Then add:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: a pinch of dried thyme or red pepper flakes

Simmer 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

4. Finish the Dish

Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and simmer for 2–3 minutes to reheat and allow flavors to combine.

Garnish with chopped parsley or chives before serving.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Cooking Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing — work in batches if needed.
• Let the sauce simmer gently — avoid a hard boil to prevent curdling.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor.

Flavor Variations

• Mushroom garlic chicken: Sauté sliced mushrooms before adding garlic.
• Spinach version: Stir in a handful of baby spinach near the end.
• Lemon twist: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
• Bacon version: Stir in crisp bacon pieces for extra richness.

Substitutions

• Lighter option: Use half-and-half and reduce butter slightly.
• Dairy-free: Use full-fat coconut milk and skip the Parmesan.
• Low-carb/keto: Serve over sautéed zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

Creamy garlic chicken is ultra-versatile and pairs beautifully with a range of sides. Try it with:

• Mashed potatoes – for soaking up every drop of sauce
• Steamed rice or pilaf
• Pasta – fettuccine, linguine, or orzo
• Roasted or sautéed vegetables – broccoli, asparagus, green beans
• Crusty bread – for dipping

It’s perfect for:

• Quick weeknight meals
• At-home date nights
• Make-ahead lunches (sauce reheats well)

Nutritional & Health Notes

This dish is indulgent but can fit a balanced meal plan, especially when paired with veggies or a light side.

Approximate Nutrition (per serving, serves 4):

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 5–6g
• Fiber: <1g

To lighten it:

• Use chicken breast, half-and-half, and serve with steamed vegetables.
• Omit Parmesan and reduce cream for a cleaner version.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Fresh garlic is highly recommended for flavor, but pre-minced can work in a pinch. Use 1–1½ tsp for every 1 clove.

Q2: How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer uncovered until it naturally reduces. You can also add 1 tsp flour or cornstarch dissolved in broth if needed.

Q3: Can I make this ahead?

Yes. Store cooked chicken and sauce separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream.

Q4: Can I freeze creamy garlic chicken?

The sauce may separate when thawed. For best results, freeze only the chicken and make the sauce fresh when reheating.

Q5: What herbs go well with garlic cream sauce?

Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary work beautifully. For a springy twist, try fresh basil or tarragon.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?

Yes — just use a larger skillet and brown the chicken in batches. Double the sauce ingredients accordingly.

Q7: Is this recipe spicy?

No — but you can add red pepper flakes or cayenne for gentle heat if desired.

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