If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen rotation. Tender chicken breasts simmered in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce topped with Parmesan and fresh herbs create a flavor combination that’s both indulgent and comforting. It’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to impress guests without any fuss. Once you experience the rich, velvety sauce paired with juicy chicken, this recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are beautifully simple but work together to create the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors. Each element is essential, from the garlic that infuses the dish with aromatic depth to the Parmesan that brings a subtle salty richness.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provides juicy protein and the perfect base for the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a smooth richness and helps achieve that gorgeous golden crust on the chicken.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Packs the garlic punch that defines this dish’s flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and deglazes the pan to incorporate all those delicious browned bits into the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to the indulgent creaminess that coats every bite.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses the sauce with a nutty, savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings herbal warmth with basil, oregano, and thyme.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate every component.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, vibrant finish just before serving.
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional): For that extra touch of richness and silky texture in the sauce.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to ensure a beautiful sear. Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides for balanced flavor. Cook the chicken for 6 to 7 minutes per side, letting a golden crust form, which locks in juiciness. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside—don’t worry, we’ll bring it back for the grand finale.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Sauce
Right in the same skillet, add your minced garlic and sauté it for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly. The fragrant aroma of garlic will fill your kitchen and set your taste buds tingling. Keep a close eye to avoid burning, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and detract from the sauce’s creamy goodness.
Step 3: Add Liquids
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and use it to deglaze the pan. This means scraping all those delicious browned bits off the bottom into the sauce, intensifying the flavor. Let the broth simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so it reduces slightly and becomes richer, setting up the perfect base for your creamy mixture.
Step 4: Add the Cream and Parmesan
Now comes the magic moment: pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese along with the Italian seasoning. Stir gently and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken and develop its signature velvety texture. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little more broth or cream to loosen it up to your liking.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Return your perfectly cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon that heavenly sauce over them. Allow everything to simmer together for another 3 to 5 minutes. This final step lets the chicken soak up those incredible flavors, making the dish even more irresistible. For a dreamy, extra creamy touch, stir in one tablespoon of butter just before removing the skillet from heat.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and brightness. Serve hot alongside your favorite pasta, fluffy mashed potatoes, or crisp steamed veggies for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and elegant.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the star garnish, bringing a burst of green freshness that balances the richness of the sauce beautifully. You could also sprinkle some extra Parmesan or add a light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple, comforting sides like buttery mashed potatoes that soak up the sauce or al dente pasta tossed in a bit of olive oil and garlic. For a lighter option, steamed green beans or roasted asparagus add a satisfying crunch and vibrant color.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the chicken sliced over a bed of creamy polenta or fluffy rice for a rustic touch. Another fun idea is plating it alongside roasted vegetables arranged in a colorful pattern—this dish looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for a cozy dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover creamy garlic chicken and sauce to an airtight container. Stored properly, it will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for a convenient and delicious next-day meal that reheats beautifully.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Use a freezer-safe container and ensure the sauce and chicken are fully cooled before sealing. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating. You can add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid the microwave if possible, as the sauce might curdle.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer extra juiciness and a richer flavor. Just adjust cooking time accordingly since thighs might take a bit longer to cook through.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version. The sauce will have a different but still delicious flavor.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce further or add a cornstarch slurry (mix of cornstarch and water) gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries! You can easily create your own by mixing dried basil, oregano, and thyme in equal parts for a fresh blend that works just as well.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and sauce separately and then assemble and heat everything just before serving. This makes for convenient meal prep with no sacrifice in flavor.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe enough—it’s a total crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re craving something comforting after a long day or want to impress friends with minimal stress, this dish brings all the savory, creamy goodness you’ve been dreaming of. Trust me, once you try it, it’s going to be on repeat in your kitchen!
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Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked in a rich and flavorful garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish combines the savory goodness of garlic and Italian seasoning with a luscious creamy sauce that 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 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
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. If you want 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 food safety.
- If the sauce thickens too much, adjust consistency with additional chicken broth or cream.
- For a lower fat version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
- This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Butter is optional but adds extra richness to the sauce.
