Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that comes together in just 30 minutes, this Creamy Garlic Chicken is about to win a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. Think juicy, golden chicken breasts bathed in a luscious garlic-parmesan sauce—each bite dreamy, savory, and impossible to resist. Whether you’re making a weeknight meal or a special weekend treat, the recipe’s rich flavors and silky texture will make every dinner feel special. You’ll want to serve extra bread (or potatoes!) to mop up every last drop.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Garlic Chicken is how a handful of kitchen staples can create such a showstopping meal. Each ingredient brings its own magic—bold flavor, tender texture, or a pop of color—that takes this dish over the top.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for maximum convenience and juicy results.
• Salt: Essential for enhancing every bite and bringing out the natural flavors.
• Black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
• Paprika: Offers subtle warmth and an appetizing golden color.
• Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken for a beautiful golden crust.
• Butter: Enriches the sauce for that irresistible creamy finish.
• Garlic cloves (minced): The heart of the dish, providing punchy, fragrant flavor.
• Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and keeps the sauce from being too heavy.
• Heavy cream: The key to a silky, lush sauce.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce and gives it that savory, nutty twang.
• Italian seasoning: Balances the flavors with herbal notes.
• Fresh parsley (optional): Lends a fresh pop of green at the end.
• Extra Parmesan for garnish: You can never have too much cheese—sprinkle as much as you’d like!

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry—they’ll sear up golden and gorgeous. Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika, rubbing the spices in gently to coat the chicken completely. This simple mix ensures every bite is well-seasoned and flavorful.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Set a large skillet over medium-high heat and swirl in the olive oil. When it’s shimmering, add your chicken breasts. Let them sizzle undisturbed for 5–6 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Searing locks in all the juices, so don’t rush this part! Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Lower the heat to medium and add the butter right into the same skillet—don’t wash it! As soon as it melts, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes, stirring, until the kitchen smells heavenly and the garlic softens without browning. This is where the Creamy Garlic Chicken starts building its bold flavor.

Step 4: Deglaze and Create the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Those little bits are pure flavor gold for your sauce! Bring the broth to a gentle simmer, then stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens ever so slightly and turns irresistibly creamy.

Step 5: Simmer Everything Together

Nestle the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the garlicky sauce over the top so each piece is coated. Let everything simmer together for another 2–3 minutes. This helps the chicken soak up even more flavor and ensures the sauce is perfectly heated through.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley and extra Parmesan right before serving for some sparkle and a big flavor finish. Your Creamy Garlic Chicken is now ready to take center stage at your table!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken

Garnishes

A scatter of chopped fresh parsley brightens the whole plate, and a heavy-handed shower of grated Parmesan adds even more creamy, salty goodness. If you really want to impress, add an extra pinch of freshly cracked black pepper over the top for a little bite.

Side Dishes

Creamy Garlic Chicken is ALL about that sauce—so be sure to serve it over mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, buttery noodles, or even a bed of sautéed spinach. Side salads, roasted vegetables, or warm crusty bread are all welcome additions to soak up every last spoonful of the creamy garlic sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special twist, slice the chicken and fan it atop a mound of pasta or spoon it alongside roasted veggies in a dinner bowl. You can also tuck extra sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the skillet for a pop of color and even more flavor. For a family-style dinner party, serve the chicken from the skillet right at the table and let everyone dig in!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow any leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken to cool before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay delicious for 3 to 4 days. The sauce keeps its creamy texture, so you’ll love it just as much the next day.

Freezing

Cream-based sauces can be a little finicky when frozen, but you can freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken in a pinch. Spoon the chicken and sauce into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results—just be sure to stir well after reheating to bring the sauce back together if it separates.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce is too thick. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave at 50% power to keep the chicken juicy. Either way, keep an eye on it so the chicken doesn’t dry out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work beautifully here. They’re juicier and even more flavorful, and you can cook them in exactly the same way—just adjust the searing time if your thighs are on the thicker side.

What’s the best way to ensure my chicken is juicy?

The trick is not to overcook it! Sear your chicken until golden, then remove from the pan as soon as it’s cooked through. Letting it simmer briefly in the sauce keeps it moist and tender while soaking up even more flavor.

How can I make Creamy Garlic Chicken gluten free?

The recipe is naturally gluten free as written! Just double-check your chicken broth and Parmesan to be sure they’re free from any added gluten-containing ingredients.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Definitely. Sautéed mushrooms or baby spinach are classic additions that pair perfectly with the garlicky cream sauce. Simply add them right before the chicken returns to the pan so they cook gently in the sauce.

What should I do if my sauce gets too thick?

If your creamy garlic sauce reduces too much or tightens up, slowly stir in an extra splash of chicken broth or cream until you reach your ideal consistency. Don’t worry—this dish is very forgiving!

Final Thoughts

There’s just something irresistible about Creamy Garlic Chicken—it’s simple, bold, and effortlessly elegant all at once. It’s the kind of meal you’ll crave again and again, whether you’re cooking for the family or treating yourself. Give it a try soon and watch how quickly it disappears from everyone’s plate!

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