Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tsp paprika (optional); 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; Creamy Garlic Sauce: 4-5 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup chicken broth; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Creamy Garlic Chicken is a rich, savory dish that combines tender, golden-brown chicken with a luscious, garlicky sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food—warm, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this dish never fails to impress.

Imagine tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection, bathed in a velvety garlic cream sauce that’s infused with herbs and spices. It’s a restaurant-quality meal you can easily make at home with simple ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy nights.

One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean easier cleanup.
Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.
Versatile: Pairs well with pasta, rice, or veggies.

Comforting and Flavorful: The creamy garlic sauce brings richness and warmth.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Making the Creamy Garlic Sauce

Sauté the Garlic: In the same pan, add a bit more oil or butter if needed. Cook the minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Melt the Cheese: Add the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the sauce thickens.

Combining the Chicken and Sauce

Return the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet.

Coat in Sauce: Spoon the creamy garlic sauce over the chicken and simmer for 5 more minutes.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken

Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic brings out the best flavor—avoid jarred garlic.

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken breasts dry out quickly, so cook just until done.
Thicken the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Pasta: Toss the chicken and sauce with fettuccine or spaghetti.

Rice: White or brown rice soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
Veggies: Serve with roasted broccoli, green beans, or a fresh salad.

Variations and Substitutions

Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs for more juiciness.

Add Veggies: Mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes add extra flavor.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a lactose-free version.

Storing and Reheating Creamy Garlic Chicken

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Freezing: Freeze the sauce separately for best texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 450

Protein: 40g
Carbs: 6g
Fat: 30g

Why Creamy Garlic Chicken is a Family Favorite

It’s flavorful, comforting, and easy to make. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead meal, perfect for meal prep and leftovers. The creamy sauce makes everything taste amazing!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the Sear: Searing adds a golden crust and locks in flavor.
Overcrowding the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed for even browning.

Rushing the Sauce: Let it simmer slowly for the best texture and taste.

How to Make It a One-Pan Meal

Add veggies like spinach or mushrooms directly into the sauce for an all-in-one dish. Serve with crusty bread to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce.

Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken

Garlic Bread: Double the garlic goodness.

Mashed Potatoes: A classic comfort pairing.
Steamed Veggies: Lightens up the richness of the dish.

FAQs About Creamy Garlic Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay juicy and add extra flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and reheated before serving.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

A: Simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water).

Can I make this dish spicy?

A: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

A: Yes! It’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats.

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a must-try recipe that combines simple ingredients into a decadent, restaurant-quality meal. It’s easy to make, versatile, and packed with flavor. Whether paired with pasta, rice, or veggies, this dish will become a staple in your home cooking routine. Give it a try and savor every creamy, garlicky bite!