This Creamy Garlic Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! The rich garlic sauce pairs perfectly with tender, juicy chicken breasts for a dish that will impress anyone at your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight meal, this creamy chicken dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a simple yet decadent dish that combines the warmth of butter, the richness of heavy cream, and the irresistible flavor of garlic. The chicken is cooked to golden perfection and smothered in a velvety garlic sauce that’s easy to make and full of flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect option for busy nights when you still want something delicious and comforting.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the chicken is coated and the sauce is creamy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small chopped chili to the sauce for a little heat.
- Mushroom Garlic Chicken: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the garlic for a rich, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Lemon Garlic Chicken: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for a fresh, zesty twist that brightens up the dish.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative to traditional sides.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat and warm gently until heated through. You can also microwave the chicken for 1-2 minutes, stirring the sauce halfway through.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor and more tender meat. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
2. Can I make the sauce without heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the sauce may not be as thick and creamy.
3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas to the sauce for added flavor and texture. Just sauté them along with the garlic or add them to the sauce while it simmers.
4. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh or thawed chicken breasts for this recipe, as frozen chicken can release excess moisture, which might affect the texture of the sauce.
5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer.
6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can make the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat the dish in a skillet over low heat when you’re ready to serve.
7. How do I make this dish dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the butter and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut oil and coconut cream, or use a non-dairy heavy cream substitute.
8. Can I freeze the creamy garlic chicken?
Yes, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.
9. Can I serve this with pasta?
Absolutely! This creamy garlic chicken pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
10. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer a little longer, or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to the sauce and stir until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Chicken is the perfect dish when you want something quick, flavorful, and comforting. With its rich, creamy garlic sauce and tender chicken, it’s a dish that will impress your family and guests alike. Ready in just 20 minutes, this easy skillet meal is a great choice for busy nights when you still want something indulgent and satisfying. Enjoy it on its own or paired with your favorite sides for a complete and delicious dinner!
Print
Creamy Garlic Chicken
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish that features tender chicken breasts smothered in a velvety garlic sauce. Quick to make in just 20 minutes, this creamy chicken dinner is perfect for busy nights, special occasions, or anytime you crave comfort food.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes or until it thickens.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, coating the chicken in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small chopped chili to the sauce for a little heat.
- Mushroom Garlic Chicken: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the garlic for a richer, earthy flavor.
- Lemon Garlic Chicken: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh, zesty twist.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
