Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a luscious garlic cream sauce. It is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal yet elegant enough to serve for guests. The balance of cream, garlic, and seasoning creates an irresistible flavor that pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a simple side of vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe combines simplicity and elegance in one dish. It is easy to prepare with minimal ingredients and requires only one pan, making clean-up effortless. The creamy sauce is deeply infused with garlic, providing a warm and savory taste that elevates the chicken to a restaurant-quality level. It is an adaptable dish suitable for casual family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt
• Pepper
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt the butter.
5. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
7. Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
8. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce. Simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a juicier option.
• Add mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Replace Parmesan with Asiago or Gruyère cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Incorporate red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving at high heat to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Ensure the heat is low when adding the cream and stir constantly to create a smooth sauce.

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Yes, but fresh minced garlic is recommended for the best flavor.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

You can substitute coconut cream and omit the Parmesan cheese, though the flavor will vary.

What sides go well with creamy garlic chicken?

Mashed potatoes, steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or pasta pair beautifully with this dish.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce separately and combine them just before serving.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Can I freeze creamy garlic chicken?

It is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

How do I thicken the sauce if it is too runny?

Let it simmer a little longer or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time to ensure it is fully cooked.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use a mixture of milk and butter or half-and-half, though the sauce will be less rich.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delicious, versatile dish that is both simple and impressive. Whether you are preparing a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe offers rich flavors with minimal effort. With a creamy sauce bursting with garlic flavor and tender, juicy chicken, it is sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

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