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There’s nothing quite like a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor, and Creamy Garlic Chicken checks all the boxes. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a rich and velvety garlic cream sauce, resulting in a dish that’s indulgent yet simple to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this creamy garlic chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The garlic-infused sauce, made with butter, cream, and parmesan cheese, elevates the chicken to new heights of deliciousness. Whether served with mashed potatoes, pasta, or vegetables, this dish will leave you coming back for seconds. It’s the ideal balance of savory, creamy, and garlicky goodness that will have your family or guests asking for the recipe. Best of all, it’s made with minimal ingredients and can be on your table in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy Sauce

The garlic cream sauce is the star of the show, with its velvety texture and rich, garlicky flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.

2. Quick and Easy

With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy nights.

3. Perfectly Cooked Chicken

The chicken breasts are juicy and tender, perfectly coated in the creamy sauce for a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

4. Versatile

This creamy garlic chicken pairs well with many sides like rice, pasta, vegetables, or a simple salad, making it a flexible option for any meal.

5. Family-Friendly

The flavors in this dish are mild but delicious, making it a great option for both adults and kids alike.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
Olive oil
Butter
Garlic (minced)
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
Chicken broth
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Variations

Herb-Infused Sauce: Add a few sprigs of thyme, rosemary, or basil to the sauce for a burst of aromatic flavor.
Mushroom Lover’s Creamy Garlic Chicken: Sauté sliced mushrooms in the pan before adding the garlic and cream for a heartier dish.
Spicy Garlic Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
Low-Carb Version: Serve the chicken with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative to pasta or mashed potatoes.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 3: Add the Cream and Parmesan

Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to absorb some of the sauce.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish the creamy garlic chicken with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Pair with your favorite side dish and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; pre-minced garlic doesn’t have the same punch.

2. Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy—check for doneness using a meat thermometer (165°F or 75°C).

3. For a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce it.

4. If the sauce gets too thick, you can thin it out with a little more chicken broth or cream.

5. Don’t forget to scrape up any flavorful bits from the pan when making the sauce; they add depth to the flavor.

How to Serve

Creamy garlic chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it with mashed potatoes, pasta, or a green vegetable like steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach. It’s also great with rice or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover creamy garlic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

Freezing

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the creamy garlic chicken for up to 1 month. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra cream or broth to bring back the creamy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs would work wonderfully in this recipe.

2. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, half-and-half can be used as a lighter alternative, though the sauce may not be as rich.

3. Can I make this recipe with other proteins?

Absolutely! You can use pork chops, turkey breasts, or even shrimp for a different take on this creamy garlic dish.

4. How do I make the sauce spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.

5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like olive oil and coconut cream. Use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast in place of parmesan.

6. Can I make the sauce without chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or even water, though the flavor might be a bit lighter.

7. How do I make the chicken more flavorful?

Marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking for extra flavor.

8. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes! You can sauté vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers and stir them into the sauce for added flavor and texture.

9. How do I avoid the sauce separating?

Keep the heat low when adding the cream, and make sure to stir continuously to prevent curdling.

10. Can I make the creamy garlic chicken ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time, then combine them just before serving.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a perfect weeknight meal that feels indulgent but is quick and easy to prepare. With its rich, garlic-infused cream sauce and tender, juicy chicken, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking for a simple family dinner or something special for guests, this creamy garlic chicken recipe will deliver a comforting and flavorful experience every time. Enjoy this delicious dish with your favorite sides, and let it become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!