There’s something truly special about a dish that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. Creamy garlic chicken is exactly that—rich, comforting, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, a date night at home, or simply because you’re craving something indulgent yet easy to make, this recipe delivers.

This dish is all about simplicity. Tender, juicy chicken is seared to perfection and then smothered in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce. The aroma alone is enough to make your kitchen feel like a five-star restaurant. The best part? It comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal that feels anything but ordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make – This dish requires just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep.
• Full of flavor – The combination of garlic, cream, and herbs creates a restaurant-quality dish.
• Versatile – Serve it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
• Crowd-pleaser – Even picky eaters will love this creamy, savory dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika for a boost of flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—garlic cooks quickly!

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This step adds extra flavor to the sauce. Stir in the heavy cream, thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add the Parmesan and Chicken

Stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Then, return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over it. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors can meld together.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!

Helpful Tips

• Pound the chicken – If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness for even cooking.
• Don’t overcook the garlic – Burnt garlic can turn bitter, so sauté it just until fragrant.
• For extra thickness – If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of water.
• Customize the flavors – Add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for a fun twist.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 2-4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Notes

• This recipe pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
• Leftover sauce? It makes a great dip for crusty bread!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 600mg

(Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs will add even more juiciness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time as they may take a little longer to cook.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt. However, the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.

How do I make this dairy-free?

Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and replace Parmesan with a dairy-free alternative.

What can I serve with this dish?

This creamy garlic chicken pairs beautifully with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or even steamed vegetables.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the sauce ahead and store it separately. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and add the chicken to warm it through.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring the sauce back to life.
• Freezing: You can freeze the sauce separately for up to 2 months. However, cream-based sauces may slightly change in texture when thawed.

Related Recipes

If you loved this creamy garlic chicken, you might also enjoy:

• Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Parmesan Sauce
• Creamy Garlic Chicken
• Creamy Chicken with Boursin Sauce (Garlic and Fine Herbs)

Conclusion

Creamy garlic chicken is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for guests. With its rich, velvety sauce and tender chicken, it’s a dish that never fails to satisfy. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or veggies, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it tonight and let the creamy goodness speak for itself!

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