If you are craving a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting, this Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Tender, golden chicken breasts bathed in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, enriched with Parmesan and brightened by a splash of lemon, make this dish an unforgettable weeknight winner. It balances rich, savory flavors and cozy textures perfectly, making it a true crowd-pleaser whether you’re cooking for family or friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients come together to create layers of flavor that are anything but simple. Each element plays a vital role in building a sauce that’s silky smooth and deeply satisfying, while the chicken stays juicy and delicious.
- 4 chicken breasts: The star protein that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the natural flavor of the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a light, fruity base for searing the chicken to golden perfection.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Brings richness and helps develop the sauce’s silky texture.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: The aromatic heart of the sauce, delivering punchy, warm flavor.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps create the sauce’s body.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The creamy foundation that makes this dish truly decadent.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers sharp, nutty notes and thickens the sauce flawlessly.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: A burst of brightness to cut through the richness.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh herby touch and beautiful color to finish.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step ensures each bite is perfectly flavorful and sets a solid foundation for the dish.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the chicken breasts in the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, until they turn a mouthwatering golden brown and are cooked through. Then remove chicken from the skillet and set it aside, keeping all those lovely browned bits in the pan for flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. This step unlocks the magic of garlic, releasing its fragrance and infusing the entire dish with its unmistakable savory aroma without burning it.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Next, pour in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring continuously as the sauce thickens, blending all those flavors into a velvety, rich sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken.
Step 5: Simmer the Chicken in Sauce
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them in the creamy garlic sauce. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes so the chicken absorbs even more of that irresistible sauce.
Step 6: Add Lemon and Garnish
Finish the dish by stirring in the lemon juice, which adds a zesty brightness that perfectly balances the creaminess. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley to bring in a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note right before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is your go-to garnish for this dish, adding a lovely contrast of green and a mild herbal lift. A light drizzle of extra olive oil or a few red pepper flakes can also be added for a bit of flair and warmth.
Side Dishes
This creamy chicken pairs wonderfully with simple sides that soak up that sauce. Think buttery mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even al dente pasta. For a fresh balance, steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a crisp garden salad make fantastic companions.
Creative Ways to Present
For a beautiful presentation, serve the chicken on a platter with the creamy sauce spooned generously over the top, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley. You can also slice the breasts and layer them over a bed of garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a rustic but elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover creamy garlic chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead option for busy weeknights or quick lunches.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, too. Just cool the chicken and sauce completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. You can store it for up to 2 months, so you always have a comforting meal ready to go.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from breaking. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream can help refresh the sauce’s texture and keep it luscious.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work brilliantly in this recipe, offering a juicier and even more flavorful alternative. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap out heavy cream for coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor, making the dish suitable for dairy-free diets.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the creamy garlic sauce in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat gently and add freshly cooked chicken to warm through.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
While fresh garlic provides the best flavor, you can use garlic powder in a pinch—about 1/2 teaspoon—to mimic the garlic taste, though the sauce may be less vibrant.
How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
To thicken, allow the sauce to simmer a bit longer uncovered to reduce. To thin it out, add small amounts of chicken broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe is a true testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something utterly comforting and delicious. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved recipe for gatherings or quiet nights at home. Dive in, savor every bite, and don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes a staple in your kitchen!
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Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a luscious garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe combines simple ingredients to create a gourmet-quality meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook each side for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it releases a fragrant aroma, being careful not to burn it.
- Prepare the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir continuously over medium heat until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Simmer the chicken: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Allow the chicken to simmer in the creamy garlic sauce for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Add lemon and garnish: Stir in the lemon juice for a bright finish. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- Make sure to not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference.
- If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to thin it out.
- This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
