Creamy garlic chicken recipe served on a plate with herbs and side dishes

Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe – Easy & Delicious

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It combines tender chicken breasts with a rich and flavorful creamy sauce made from garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs. This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious, making it a go-to choice for busy cooks and families alike. Plus, it pairs beautifully with various sides, so you can customize your meal to your liking.

how to make Creamy Garlic Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

  3. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Add the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, thyme, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.

  4. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

  5. Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve the creamy garlic chicken with your choice of side dishes and enjoy!

how to serve Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken is best served with a side of pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice pop of color and freshness.

how to store Creamy Garlic Chicken

To store leftovers, let the creamy garlic chicken cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.

tips to make Creamy Garlic Chicken

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in garlic and herbs for an hour before cooking.
  • Make sure to cook the chicken on medium heat to prevent it from browning too quickly.
  • If you love a bit of heat, don’t skip the red pepper flakes!
  • Serve with crusty bread to mop up the creamy sauce.

variation (if any)

You can easily customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use almond milk for a dairy-free option.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work great for this recipe. They will offer a bit more flavor and tenderness.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as the chicken broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

3. Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken?
While it’s possible to freeze it, the cream sauce may change in texture when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.