Okay, let’s talk comfort food. We’re not talking just any comfort food, we’re talking about the kind that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a big, warm blanket and a good movie. This Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe is exactly that, only it’s way easier to make than it tastes. Forget complicated sauces and hours in the kitchen; this one comes together in a snap. If you love the richness of Chicken Alfredo but want something even simpler and more flavorful, this will become your new go-to! I kid you not, I threw this together last week when I was short on time, and the family devoured it. It’s the perfect creamy, garlicky goodness that you crave after a long day.
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What is Creamy Garlic Chicken?
Think of Creamy Garlic Chicken as your favorite chicken dinner, but amplified. It’s essentially juicy, perfectly cooked chicken breasts smothered in a luscious, Creamy Garlic Sauce. The sauce is the real star here – it’s rich, flavorful, and so incredibly easy to make. The recipe leverages simple ingredients you likely already have, so no running to a specialty store needed. It’s not overly complicated, and that’s what makes it so appealing. It’s the kind of dish that’s comforting enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve to guests. Plus, the sauce clings to every piece of chicken, ensuring each bite is packed with garlicky goodness. The magic is in the simplicity, I tell ya!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Honestly, where do I even begin? This recipe has so much going for it. First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world. The garlic infuses into the creamy sauce, creating this unbelievably savory and comforting flavor profile. I honestly find myself sneaking spoonfuls of just the sauce sometimes (don’t judge!). Secondly, it’s SO easy to make. I’m talking minimal prep time and a straightforward cooking process. This is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you need a delicious dinner on the table fast.
What I love most about this is that it is a budget-friendly meal. Chicken breasts are relatively inexpensive, and the rest of the ingredients are pantry staples. You can feed a family of four without breaking the bank, which is always a win in my book. Then there’s the versatility! You can serve this Creamy Garlic Chicken with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or even mashed potatoes. It’s a blank canvas for creating a complete and satisfying meal. This stands out from similar recipes because of the simplicity of the ingredients while still delivering bold flavors. You might be thinking this sounds a bit like Chicken Francese, but it’s not. Chicken Francese has a light lemon sauce and is more complicated, this is just pure creamy garlic bliss. I guarantee this will become a family favorite in no time!
How do I make Creamy Garlic Chicken?
Quick Overview
How do I make Creamy Garlic Chicken? What are some good ways to season chicken breasts? How do you make the garlic sauce in the same pan? What are some of the best chicken flavors to mix and match? When the chicken is cooked through, you’ll simmer it in the sauce until it’s unbelievably tender. Is the whole process so easy?
Ingredients
For the Creamy Garlic Chicken:
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Aim for about 6-8 ounces each. Pound them to an even thickness for even cooking – this also helps them stay juicy!
* 2 tablespoons olive oil: Extra virgin is my go-to for flavor, but regular olive oil works fine too.
* 4 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced is key for that pungent garlic flavor. Don’t skimp!
* 1 cup chicken broth: Low sodium is best so you can control the saltiness.
* 1/2 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce so rich and decadent. Don’t substitute with milk.
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, savory depth to the sauce. Freshly grated melts best.
* 1 tablespoon butter: This adds richness and shine to the final sauce. Unsalted is my preference.
* 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a warm, aromatic touch.
* Salt and pepper to taste: Season generously!
* Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
First things first, prep your chicken. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Get a large skillet ready and set it over medium-high heat. You’ll need that pan nice and hot to get that golden-brown sear.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Add the olive oil to the hot skillet. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Don’t worry about cleaning the pan; those browned bits are pure flavor!
Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. How do you cook garlic? What are the browned bits on the bottom of the pan? All the flavor lives! Bring the broth to a boil and let it reduce, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheese
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Set aside. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes, or until it has thickened. Is it possible to Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Add the butter, stirring until it is melted and fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Simmer the Chicken in the Sauce
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and nestle them into the creamy garlic sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken to coat it evenly. Serve immediately. Let the chicken simmer for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and the sauce is thick. has thickened to your liking.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the Creamy Garlic Chicken with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite side. This dish is great over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, and it pairs perfectly with roasted potatoes. What are vegetables like broccoli or asparagus?
What should I serve it with?
What is a creamy garlic chicken? What are some of my favorite pairings?
What is a good weeknight dinner?Serve it over a bed of linguine or fettuccine pasta. What is the best garlic sauce to serve with noodles? Add a simple side salad with olive oil to balance out the richness.
For a Special Occasion:Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus. What is the best way to prepare a delicious meal? What are some good crusty breads to make for soaking up that delicious sauce?
For a lighter meal:Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. What is the best way to enjoy the flavors of a dish without the carbs? Add a side of steamed green beans or cucumber salad to eat for lunch. My family loves to dip bread into the sauce. What can I do? What’s the best way to soak up that creamy garlic goodness?
How can I make Creamy Garlic Chicken?
What are some tips for making Creamy Garlic Chicken? Is it perfect?
Chicken Breast Prep: How do IBefore cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. How do you cook chicken breasts? If the chicken is too thick, it tends to dry out before it’s fully cooked.
What is Garlic Know Don’t burn the garlic! Burnt garlic tastes bitter and can ruin the whole dish. Keep the heat on medium-low and watch it carefully. It should be fragrant and golden, not brown or black.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken.
Parmesan Power:What are some good ways to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting. The pre-shredded stuff often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
Cream Consideration: Don’t boil the cream! Boiling can cause it to curdle. Keep the heat on low and let the sauce simmer gently.
Herb Heaven:I’ve even swapped the Italian seasoning for a mix of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano. What is the depth of flavor?
Butter Boost:Add a tablespoon of butter at the end of cooking to add richness and shine to the sauce. What is a little trick that makes ‘a big difference’?
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house! How do I store and reheat them?
Room Temperature: Do not leave the creamy chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it cools down completely before storing.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating Magic: To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to the skillet to prevent the sauce from drying out. Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may not be as creamy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe is a winner in my book. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The creamy garlic sauce is seriously addictive, and the chicken is always tender and juicy. It’s the perfect comfort food for a busy weeknight or a special occasion. I hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as my family does!
If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other chicken recipes, like my Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken or my Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry. They’re all easy to make and bursting with flavor. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. I love to hear your own twists and variations!
Savory Lemon Herb Chicken: 5 Tips to Perfect Every Bite!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into halves
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 4 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1 cup chicken broth low sodium
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon honey optional, for sweetness
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and lemon zest on both sides.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken until golden brown on each side, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and garlic powder. Stir for about 30 seconds.
- Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, thyme, and honey. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and slowly stir in heavy cream. Let simmer until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and cook for another 5-7 minutes.
