I’m about to share a recipe that’s been able to change my life completely. Creamy Garlic Chicken. If you love Chicken Alfredo, prepare to meet its even more deliciousness. What are some of the best flavorful, slightly quicker Is this a comfort food? When you have dinner on a weeknight, you know it will be takeout. What do you do?againIs this one of those recipes that once you try it, it’ll become a regular in your rotation?
What is Creamy Garlic Chicken?
Think of Creamy Garlic Chicken as the ultimate weeknight indulgence. It’s essentially juicy chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and then smothered in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce that’s so good, you’ll want to lick the plate (and I won’t judge you if you do!). Unlike some cream sauces that can be heavy and overwhelming, this one is balanced with just the right amount of garlic, herbs, and a touch of Parmesan for that perfect umami kick. It’s rich without being overly rich, comforting without being heavy. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser, even for the pickiest eaters.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some good reasons to eat Creamy Garlic Chicken? What are some of the best flavor combinations? You get that beautiful sear on the chicken, which adds a lovely caramelized note, and then that yummy seared chicken. What is the best garlicky sauce you have ever had? Is it savory, rich, and intensely satisfying? What I love most about this is how ridiculously easy it is to make. We’re talking maybe 30 minutes, start to finish. What do you do when you stare at the fridge and wonder what to do with it? Is it possible to have all of the ingredients in your pantry in one go?
What is the cost of living? Chicken breasts are fairly budget-friendly, especially when you buy them in bulk, and the rest of the meat is quite expensive. What are some pantry staples? How do you get a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank? What are some of the best dishes to serve with this dish? What are some good side dishes to serve over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even alongside roasted veggies? What’s not to love? Is garlic in this recipe a bad thing? Is it over the top?
How do I make Creamy Garlic Chicken?
Quick Overview
How do I make Creamy Garlic Chicken? Is it true that I am not Is it safe to cook chicken breasts in a skillet until golden brown? What’s the best way to make garlic cream sauce? What is the best way Lastly, you’ll return the chicken to the pan to soak up all that goodness. What is a one-pan wonder?
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: About 6-8 ounces each. Make sure they are even thickness if you can for even cooking or pound them lightly to even them.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: I always use extra virgin olive oil for that extra flavor kick, but any neutral oil will do.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a nice base layer of garlic flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika: For a touch of smokiness and color.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, of course. Don’t skimp on the pepper!
What is the recipe for Creamy Garlic Sauce?
• 2 tablespoons butter: Unsalted is best so you can control the saltiness of the sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly mince the garlic. It really makes a difference.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Low sodium, so you can adjust the salt to your liking.
• 1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce ultra-creamy and decadent. Don’t substitute with milk or half-and-half, it won’t be the same.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a lovely nutty flavor. Why is fresh grated always better?
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: For a pop of freshness and color.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle earthy note that complements the garlic beautifully.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Again, to taste!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear! Season them generously with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is nice and hot before adding the chicken.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Carefully place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You want to hear that sizzle! Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. An internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is what you’re looking for. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. That’s happened to me before – not a pleasant surprise!
Step 4: Add Broth and Thyme
Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These little bits are packed with flavor, so don’t skip this step!
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Parmesan
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. I usually add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick too!
Step 6: Return Chicken and Simmer
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them, making sure they’re nicely coated. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce has thickened further.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately over your favorite sides, like pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables. Don’t forget to drizzle some extra sauce over everything!
What to Serve It With
What are some good recipes for Creamy Garlic Chicken? What are some of my favorite ways to serve it: with a spoon or by hand.
Over Pasta:Toss it with cooked fettuccine, spaghetti, or linguine for a classic and comforting meal. Is Parmesan cheese good for you?
With Rice:Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice for an easy and satisfying option. How does rice soak up the sauce?
What are the best ways to eat Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect complement to this dish. They’re so comforting and pair beautifully with the garlicky sauce.
What is the best way to serveFor a lighter and healthier meal, serve it alongside some roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. What are some of the best flavors that work together?
What is Crusty Bread?What are some good crusty breads to make for soaking up the sauce? My family loves serving this with roasted asparagus or a simple green salad.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Creamy Garlic Chicken
Want to make sure your Creamy Garlic Chicken is absolutely perfect every time? Here are some of my top tips:
Pound the Chicken: If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, pound them lightly with a meat mallet to ensure they cook evenly. This will prevent some parts from being overcooked while others are still undercooked.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will lower the temperature of the pan and prevent the chicken from browning properly. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is key for getting the best flavor in the sauce. Don’t use pre-minced garlic, as it can lack flavor.
Don’t Burn the Garlic: Be careful not to burn the garlic when cooking it in the butter. Burnt garlic can become bitter and ruin the flavor of the sauce. Cook it over medium heat for just about a minute, or until fragrant.
Use Heavy Cream: For the creamiest and most decadent sauce, use heavy cream. Don’t substitute with milk or half-and-half, as it won’t be the same.
Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese to taste. I usually add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
Simmer the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly before adding the chicken back to the pan. This will help the sauce cling to the chicken and create a more flavorful dish.
Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the fresh parsley! It adds a pop of freshness and color that really elevates the dish.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken, here’s how to store and reheat it:
Refrigerator Storage: Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the chicken is cooled completely before storing it.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the Creamy Garlic Chicken. Place the leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat the chicken, you can use the microwave, oven, or stovetop. In the microwave, heat it in 30-second intervals until heated through. In the oven, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. On the stovetop, heat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to prevent it from drying out.
Glaze Timing Advice: You can add a touch of fresh parsley after reheating to freshen it up!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to recipe for Creamy Garlic Chicken. I promise you, once you try this, it will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. What more could you ask for? If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my other chicken recipes for more inspiration. And don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how yours turns out! I can’t wait to hear from you. Happy cooking!
Creamy Garlic Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Chicken breasts
- 4 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 0.5 cup Chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Butter
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until chicken is cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.
