Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1/2 tsp paprika (optional); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Creamy Garlic Chicken is a rich and comforting dish made with tender chicken breasts simmered in a velvety garlic-infused cream sauce. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make in one skillet, and perfect for those nights when I want something hearty, satisfying, and full of bold, savory goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe transforms simple ingredients into something that tastes restaurant-worthy. The chicken stays juicy, and the creamy garlic sauce is luxurious without being too heavy. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, which makes it perfect for weeknights, yet it’s fancy enough to serve for guests. I usually pair it with mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of the sauce.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
olive oil
butter
garlic (minced)
chicken broth
heavy cream
parmesan cheese (grated)
salt
black pepper
paprika (optional)
fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Directions

I start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a bit of paprika if I want extra color and flavor.
I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. I remove the chicken and set it aside.
In the same skillet, I reduce the heat to medium, add butter, and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
I pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan, then stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
I add the grated parmesan and stir until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
I return the chicken to the pan, spoon the sauce over the top, and let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
Just before serving, I garnish with chopped parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add mushrooms or baby spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. If I want a little tang, I stir in a splash of white wine or lemon juice. I’ve also made this with boneless chicken thighs for a richer taste. And for a low-carb version, I serve it with cauliflower mash or steamed veggies instead of pasta or potatoes.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the chicken gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals. If the sauce thickens too much, I add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, I often use boneless thighs when I want more flavor. They stay juicy and work great with the creamy sauce.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

I keep the heat on low when adding cream and avoid boiling it. Stirring constantly while the sauce simmers helps keep it smooth.

What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken?

I love serving it over mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or with roasted vegetables. Crusty bread is perfect for mopping up the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I cook everything and store it in the fridge, then reheat gently before serving. It’s just as good the next day.

Can I freeze this recipe?

I don’t recommend freezing it since the cream sauce can separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken is one of those recipes I keep coming back to—it’s fast, easy, and full of rich, comforting flavors. Whether I’m cooking for the family or treating myself to a cozy dinner, this dish always hits the spot. With tender chicken and a luscious sauce, it’s a simple recipe that delivers big results every time.

Creamy Garlic Chicken