Introduction
Creamy garlic chicken is a restaurant-quality dish you can easily make at home in just 30 minutes. This one-pan recipe features tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, this dish has become a family favorite across America and beyond.
Why This Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe Works
Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal cleanup
Budget-friendly: Uses affordable, everyday ingredients
Versatile: Pairs with pasta, rice, potatoes, or vegetables
Family-approved: Creamy, flavorful sauce that everyone loves
Meal-prep friendly: Reheats beautifully for leftovers
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
If chicken breasts are very thick, slice them horizontally to create even thickness.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Transfer chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Reduce heat to medium and simmer until liquid is reduced by half, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Simmer for 3-5 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Return chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top.
Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to rewarm the chicken.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken
Even cooking: Pound or slice chicken breasts to even thickness for consistent cooking.
Don’t rush: Allow the sauce to reduce properly for maximum flavor concentration.
Fresh garlic: Use freshly minced garlic rather than jarred for the best flavor.
Temperature control: Keep the heat at medium when making the sauce to prevent curdling.
Quality ingredients: Use real Parmesan cheese (not the pre-grated kind) for a smoother sauce.
Common Questions About Creamy Garlic Chicken
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They typically require about the same cooking time but offer more flavor and moisture.
How can I make this recipe lighter?
To reduce calories, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese. You can also use light cream cheese as a thickener.
What can I serve with creamy garlic chicken?
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with:
Pasta (especially fettuccine or linguine)
Steamed rice or risotto
Mashed or roasted potatoes
Steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus
A simple green salad with vinaigrette
Can I make creamy garlic chicken ahead of time?
Yes! The dish reheats well. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this creamy garlic chicken recipe is naturally gluten-free, assuming your chicken broth is gluten-free. Always check your specific ingredients for hidden gluten.
Variations to Try
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
Add 8 oz of cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the finished chicken and sauce. Toss to coat and serve with additional Parmesan.
Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Creamy Garlic Chicken
Add 2 cups fresh spinach and 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce during the final simmer.
Mushroom Creamy Garlic Chicken
Sauté 8 oz of sliced mushrooms after cooking the garlic and before adding the broth.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 425 per serving
Protein: 35g
Fat: 30g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 1g
This nutrition information is an estimate based on the ingredients listed.
Conclusion
This creamy garlic chicken recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The rich, velvety sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken, creating a meal that’s sure to impress family and dinner guests alike. Whether served over pasta, rice, or alongside your favorite vegetables, this dish is guaranteed to become a regular in your dinner rotation.