Are you searching for a quick and delicious dinner idea that will impress your family or friends? Look no further than this Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe. Packed with savory flavors, this recipe combines tender chicken breasts, a rich and creamy garlic sauce, and a touch of herbs to create a meal that’s both comforting and elegant.
Whether it’s for a weekday dinner or a special occasion, this dish is incredibly easy to prepare and will leave everyone asking for seconds. Keep reading to learn how to cook this crowd-pleaser, discover helpful tips, and elevate your culinary skills with ease.
How Long Does It Take?
One of the standout features of this recipe is its quick cooking time. Here’s how the time breaks down:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. To save even more time, consider pre-measuring your ingredients and preparing the chicken in advance. Using pre-minced garlic or kitchen tools like garlic presses can also speed up the process.
Time Management Tips:
- Use a large skillet to cook multiple chicken breasts at once.
- Chop and prep ingredients while the chicken is searing to maximize efficiency.
- Cook side dishes (like steamed vegetables or rice) during the chicken’s simmering time for a complete meal ready in no time.
The Must-Have Kitchen Tools
Before you get started, make sure you have these essential kitchen tools:
- Non-Stick Skillet or Sauté Pan – Ideal for searing the chicken and creating a beautiful sauce without sticking.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife – For precisely slicing chicken and chopping ingredients.
- Cutting Board
- Garlic Press – A time-saving tool for ensuring finely minced garlic.
- Whisk – For blending the creamy sauce to perfection.
- Meat Thermometer – Optional but useful for ensuring the chicken is fully cooked.
Stocking your kitchen with the right tools makes recipes like this one even more straightforward and enjoyable to execute.
A Breakdown of Ingredients
Here’s a comprehensive list of everything you’ll need to make this quick and easy recipe:
- Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless) – 4 pieces
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons for searing
- Butter – 2 tablespoons for extra flavor
- Garlic Cloves (minced) – About 4-5 cloves
- Chicken Broth – 1 cup; enhances the chicken flavor
- Heavy Cream – 1 cup; creates the rich, creamy base
- Parmesan Cheese (grated) – ½ cup for a cheesy touch
- Salt and Black Pepper – To taste
- Fresh Parsley (chopped) – For garnishing
- Optional Add-Ins:
- Spinach for a healthier twist
- Mushrooms for an earthier flavor
- Lemon Juice for a tangy kick
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Looking for healthy ingredients? Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- For dairy-free versions, use a plant-based butter alternative and skip the Parmesan cheese.
- You could also use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier results.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Creamy Garlic Chicken
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides to ensure the chicken is flavorful. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. At this stage, the chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked since it will finish cooking in the sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
After searing the chicken, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Add butter to the same skillet and let it melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Be cautious during this step as garlic can burn quickly, resulting in a bitter flavor. Stir frequently to ensure it cooks evenly.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour chicken broth into the skillet, using a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up the browned bits left from searing the chicken. These bits add extra flavor to the sauce. Reduce the heat to low-medium, then slowly whisk in heavy cream, ensuring it combines well. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s fully melted, creating a smooth and creamy sauce that will coat the chicken beautifully.
Step 4: Simmer and Combine
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, ensuring they’re submerged in the creamy garlic sauce. Let the dish simmer on low for about 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to fully cook. The chicken’s internal temperature should reach 165°F. Once cooked, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness to the rich creamy sauce.
Quick Cooking Tips:
- Keep your skillet on medium heat to avoid scorching the cream.
- Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more broth if it’s too thick or letting it simmer longer to thicken.
Perfect Pairings and Serving Ideas
This rich and creamy chicken dish pairs beautifully with simple side dishes. Here are some of our favorite serving suggestions:
- Mashed Potatoes – The ultimate comfort food combo.
- Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus balance the richness of the sauce.
- Crusty Bread – Perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce.
- Rice or Pasta – Turn this into a hearty meal by serving it over your favorite pasta or fluffy white rice.
Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a few parsley leaves for a stunning presentation.
Tips to Elevate Your Creamy Chicken Dish
- Use Fresh Garlic for the best flavor, as it enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
- Experiment with Herbs: Add thyme, rosemary, or basil for unique flavor combinations.
- Make it Eye-Catching: Add a pop of color by tossing cherry tomatoes or spinach into the sauce.
- Double the Sauce: If your family loves extra sauce, double the ingredients for the creamy mixture so everyone can enjoy more over their rice or pasta.
Nutritional Profile (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Sodium: Moderate
Storing Leftovers Safely
Have leftovers? No problem! Place the chicken and sauce into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so on low heat to avoid curdling the sauce. Unfortunately, this recipe doesn’t freeze well due to the cream-based sauce’s tendency to separate when thawed.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, this recipe is perfect as a make-ahead meal! You can cook the chicken and prepare the creamy garlic sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce and chicken on the stovetop over low heat. If the sauce has thickened in the fridge, add a splash of heavy cream or chicken broth while reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! This dish is naturally a gluten-free recipe, as long as your ingredients are certified gluten-free. Double-check that your chicken broth and Parmesan cheese are free from any hidden gluten (some processed options may contain additives).
Since the sauce is thickened naturally with cream and cheese, there’s no need for flour or other thickeners, making it a crowd-pleaser for anyone with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.
My Sauce Isn’t Thick Enough. What Can I Do?
Sometimes sauces need a little help to achieve the perfect consistency. If your creamy garlic sauce is too thin, don’t worry! Simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow the liquid to reduce naturally.
Alternatively, try this quick sauce thickening tip: mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the simmering sauce and cook for another minute or two until it thickens to your liking.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts boneless, skinless – 4 pieces
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons for searing
- Butter – 2 tablespoons for extra flavor
- Garlic Cloves minced – About 4-5 cloves
- Chicken Broth – 1 cup; enhances the chicken flavor
- Heavy Cream – 1 cup; creates the rich creamy base
- Parmesan Cheese grated – ½ cup for a cheesy touch
- Salt and Black Pepper – To taste
- Fresh Parsley chopped – For garnishing
Instructions
- Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides to ensure the chicken is flavorful. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. At this stage, the chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked since it will finish cooking in the sauce later.
- After searing the chicken, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Add butter to the same skillet and let it melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Be cautious during this step as garlic can burn quickly, resulting in a bitter flavor. Stir frequently to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Pour chicken broth into the skillet, using a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up the browned bits left from searing the chicken. These bits add extra flavor to the sauce. Reduce the heat to low-medium, then slowly whisk in heavy cream, ensuring it combines well. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s fully melted, creating a smooth and creamy sauce that will coat the chicken beautifully.
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, ensuring they’re submerged in the creamy garlic sauce. Let the dish simmer on low for about 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to fully cook. The chicken’s internal temperature should reach 165°F. Once cooked, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness to the rich creamy sauce.
Notes
- Use Fresh Garlic for the best flavor, as it enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
- Experiment with Herbs: Add thyme, rosemary, or basil for unique flavor combinations.
- Make it Eye-Catching: Add a pop of color by tossing cherry tomatoes or spinach into the sauce.
- Double the Sauce: If your family loves extra sauce, double the ingredients for the creamy mixture so everyone can enjoy more over their rice or pasta.
