The aroma of creamy garlic chicken wafting through the house is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine tender chicken bathed in a luscious garlic cream sauce, tantalizing your taste buds before you even take a bite. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a culinary genius, despite it being ridiculously simple to whip up.
Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, this creamy garlic chicken will be the star of the show. Trust me; you’ll find yourself craving it long after the last bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy garlic chicken is incredibly easy to prepare and bursting with flavor
- It’s visually stunning with its rich sauce
- Perfect for impressing guests or satisfying your family on busy nights
- Plus, it pairs well with almost any side dish!
I remember the first time I made this creamy garlic chicken for my friends; their faces lit up like kids in a candy store. Everyone went back for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work best; adjust based on your guest list.
- Fresh Garlic: Use about 6 cloves for that robust flavor—fresh is always best!
- Heavy Cream: This creates the luxurious sauce; don’t skimp on it!
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium is ideal to control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
- Olive Oil: For cooking the chicken; choose high-quality oil for better taste.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated for richness; it adds depth to the sauce.
- Fresh Herbs (like parsley or thyme): Chopped finely to add freshness and color.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients on the counter. Mince the garlic and chop your herbs while daydreaming about how good dinner will be.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them gently in the pan.
Make It Saucy: Once the chicken is golden brown (about 6-7 minutes per side), remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Add minced garlic to the pan, sautéing until fragrant—your kitchen will smell divine!
Add Creaminess: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth while scraping any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add Flavor Boosters: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste your sauce—don’t be shy! Adjust seasoning if needed.
Combine Everything: Return your golden-brown chicken breasts back into the pan, coating them well with that delicious sauce. Let everything cook together for another 5 minutes so those flavors meld beautifully.
Cooking should be an adventure filled with sensory delights; enjoy each step!
This creamy garlic chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with delightful aromas and mouthwatering flavors that linger long after dinner is over!
You Must Know
- This recipe for creamy garlic chicken is a game-changer for weeknight dinners
- Its rich flavor and aroma will captivate everyone at the table
- Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup as breezy as a summer day!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken breasts on medium-high heat to lock in moisture, then prepare the creamy garlic sauce while they cook to perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add your favorite veggies like spinach or broccoli to enhance flavor and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect creamy garlic chicken, ensure your garlic doesn’t burn by adding it later in cooking
- Use fresh herbs for added depth of flavor, and let everything simmer briefly before serving for an irresistible aroma
Cooking this dish reminds me of that time I prepared it for my family’s gathering. The moment they took a bite, their eyes lit up with delight—it was as if I had created culinary magic right in my kitchen!
FAQ
Can I use boneless thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless thighs add extra juiciness and flavor to this creamy garlic chicken.
What can I serve with creamy garlic chicken?
Mashed potatoes or a side salad pair wonderfully with this delicious dish.
How can I make this recipe lighter?
Use low-fat cream or Greek yogurt as a substitute for heavy cream to reduce calories.
Creamy Garlic Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in creamy garlic chicken, featuring tender chicken in a rich garlic cream sauce that elevates any meal into a delightful experience.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme), chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Mince the garlic and chop the herbs.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper; cook until golden brown (6-7 minutes per side). Remove from the pan.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping the pan to mix flavors. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth; adjust seasoning if needed.
- Return chicken to the sauce, allowing it to simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with sauce (150g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
