Save Creamy Garlic Chicken is the answer when you crave something both comforting and elegant with minimal fuss. These juicy chicken breasts are smothered in a luxurious garlic sauce that comes together in less than an hour, making it weeknight friendly but special enough for company.
When my family first tasted this dish their plates were practically licked clean before I could sit down. It is now a repeat request for cozy Sunday suppers.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for tenderness and easy cooking Choose plump pieces that are uniform in size so they cook evenly
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and highlighting the natural chicken flavor Opt for fine sea salt if you have it
- Black pepper: Adds a little gentle heat and depth Freshly cracked is best
- Olive oil: Used for browning the chicken which gives a beautiful golden crust Choose extra virgin if possible for best flavor
- Garlic: The heart of the sauce Use fresh firm cloves for the most aroma and sweetness
- Chicken broth: Helps deglaze and builds a savory base Use low sodium and check gluten content if needed
- Heavy cream: The secret to that luscious silky sauce Use fresh cream for the richest result
- Parmesan cheese: Lends salty richness and helps thicken the sauce Freshly grate your own for best texture and melt
- Italian herbs: Brings warmth and complexity Dried is fine or mix basil oregano and thyme
- Butter: Butter rounds out the sauce with richness Use unsalted for easy control over seasoning
- Fresh parsley: Brightens as a garnish Choose vibrant green leaves and chop just before serving
- Extra Parmesan: Optional but highly recommended for a savory finish Grate just before using
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season all over with salt and pepper Press the seasoning into the surface so it sticks
- Brown the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high When oil shimmers add the chicken breasts in a single layer Cook for about six minutes on each side without moving until they are deeply golden and cooked through Transfer chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm
- Make the Garlic Butter Base:
- Lower the heat to medium In the same skillet add the butter and let it melt completely Sprinkle in the minced garlic Stir constantly for one to two minutes just until the garlic is fragrant and soft Never let it brown or it will taste bitter
- Deglaze the Pan:
- Pour in the chicken broth and use a sturdy spatula to scrape up every browned bit from the pan bottom Those caramelized bits are packed with flavor Let the liquid simmer for two to three minutes to reduce slightly
- Create the Creamy Sauce:
- Stir in the heavy cream Parmesan and dried herbs Keep the heat on medium and whisk gently for three to four minutes You want the sauce to thicken enough to coat the back of a spoon but not rapidly boil
- Finish with Chicken:
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan Nestle the pieces into the sauce Spoon some sauce over each breast Cook for another two to three minutes just until the chicken is heated through and beautifully coated
- Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer chicken to plates spooning extra sauce over the top Sprinkle on chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if you like Serve immediately
Save I always look forward to the moment that fresh garlic hits the skillet That aroma instantly brings my kitchen to life and always makes my kids wander in asking what is for dinner
Storage tips
Let leftovers cool completely before storing Transfer to an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to three days For best results reheat gently over low heat stirring often to keep the sauce smooth If the sauce thickens too much add a splash of extra cream or broth
Ingredient substitutions
You can swap chicken thighs for breasts just increase cook time slightly For a lighter version use half and half instead of heavy cream Use Grana Padano instead of Parmesan if that is what you have No Italian herbs Try a mix of basil and oregano
Serving suggestions
Creamy Garlic Chicken is incredible over fluffy white rice tender pasta or creamy mashed potatoes Roasted broccoli or green beans are perfect sides for soaking up sauce For a truly comforting touch try it with crusty bread to swipe through every drop
Save This dish is your ticket to effortless comfort food with a restaurant wow factor I have learned that just a few steps and some patience with the sauce transform weeknight chicken into something crave worthy Enjoy every last bite
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well in this dish. Adjust the cooking time as needed for thickness.
- → How do I make the sauce lighter?
Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter texture.
- → What can I serve with this chicken?
This dish is delicious with rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed vegetables.
- → Is the dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free chicken broth and check all ingredient labels for added gluten.
- → Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Sliced mushrooms or spinach can be sautéed with garlic for extra flavor and nutrition.
- → What wine pairs well with this meal?
A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce beautifully.