If you’re craving a comforting and delicious meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, you’ve come to the right place. This Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe is a must-try! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings together the richness of cream and the bold taste of garlic, all wrapped around tender chicken breasts. Read on for the complete recipe and some handy tips that will make this dish a new favorite in your household.
What is Creamy Garlic Chicken?
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a dish that features tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich and creamy garlic sauce. The sauce is made with simple ingredients like heavy cream, garlic, butter, and chicken broth, all of which come together to create a luxurious and flavorful experience. The dish is easy to prepare, yet it feels indulgent enough to serve at a dinner party or a special family meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you through every step to ensure perfect results.
Ingredients List for Creamy Garlic Chicken
For this mouthwatering Creamy Garlic Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts: These are the star of the dish, providing a tender and juicy base for the creamy garlic sauce.
- Salt & pepper to taste: These simple seasonings enhance the flavor of the chicken and the sauce.
- Flour for dredging: This helps to create a slight crust on the chicken when it’s pan-seared, giving the dish texture and depth.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken, olive oil adds a mild flavor and helps achieve a nice golden-brown crust.
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided): Butter adds richness to both the chicken and the sauce, making the dish more luxurious.
- 1 whole head garlic, cloves peeled: Garlic is the star of the sauce, adding a deep, aromatic flavor.
- ½ cup chicken broth or stock: This adds depth to the sauce and helps to deglaze the pan.
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice: The lemon juice adds a subtle tang that balances the richness of the cream.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder: This boosts the garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream: The cream creates the sauce’s rich and velvety texture.
- Parsley, chopped (optional): Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the finished dish.
Substitutions and Variations
This Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe is versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some substitutions and variations you might consider:
- Chicken thighs instead of breasts: For a juicier and more flavorful option, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs. They may require a slightly longer cooking time, but the result will be worth it.
- Gluten-free flour: If you’re gluten-intolerant, simply swap the regular flour for a gluten-free alternative.
- Vegetarian version: Replace the chicken with firm tofu or seitan, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This will give you a creamy, garlic-infused dish without the meat.
- Adding vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus into the dish to make it a more complete meal. Simply sauté them before adding the cream to the sauce.
- Spicy kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce.
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil to give the dish a unique twist.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Cooking this Creamy Garlic Chicken is straightforward, and the results are guaranteed to impress. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a dish that’s full of flavor and perfectly cooked every time.

- Prepare the chicken breasts: Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece lightly in flour, shaking off any excess. This will help create a nice crust on the chicken when it cooks.
- Sear the chicken: Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and the pan is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Cook the garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the peeled garlic cloves. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are soft and fragrant but not browned.
- Deglaze the pan: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds incredible flavor to the sauce.
- Make the creamy garlic sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and add the garlic powder and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
- Combine and finish cooking: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for another 5 minutes, or until it’s fully coated and heated through.
- Garnish and serve: If desired, sprinkle the dish with chopped parsley before serving. This adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the rich and creamy chicken.
How to Cook Creamy Garlic Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating the perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken requires just a few simple steps. Here’s a more detailed guide to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:
- Season and dredge the chicken: Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper, then dredge each breast in flour. This step helps create a flavorful crust when the chicken is seared.
- Heat the skillet: Use a large, heavy skillet to ensure even cooking. Heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until the butter is fully melted and slightly bubbling.
- Sear the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Sear each side for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown. The goal is to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
- Prepare the garlic: After removing the chicken from the skillet, add more butter if needed. Toss in the peeled garlic cloves and cook until they’re soft and fragrant. The garlic should be tender but not burnt, which would give the sauce a bitter taste.
- Create the sauce: Add the chicken broth and lemon juice, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This deglazing process adds rich flavor to the sauce. Then, pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and starts to thicken.
- Simmer the chicken: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, allowing them to cook in the sauce for a few more minutes. This step ensures the chicken absorbs the creamy garlic flavors fully.
- Finish and serve: Once the chicken is done, garnish with parsley and serve immediately. The creamy garlic sauce should be thick enough to coat the chicken but not too thick to overpower it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a simple recipe like Creamy Garlic Chicken can have its pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcrowding the pan: When searing the chicken, make sure there’s enough space between each piece. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam rather than sear, resulting in a less crispy exterior.
- Burning the garlic: Garlic can go from golden to burnt in seconds, which can make the sauce bitter. Keep an eye on it and adjust the heat as needed.
- Not reducing the sauce: If you don’t allow the sauce to reduce, it may be too thin and watery. Simmering it helps concentrate the flavors and achieve the desired creamy consistency.
- Using low-fat cream: For the best results, use full-fat heavy cream. Lower-fat alternatives may cause the sauce to separate or not thicken properly.
Serving and Presentation Tips
A dish as delicious as Creamy Garlic Chicken deserves to be served and presented beautifully. Here’s how you can elevate your meal:
- Serve over pasta: Creamy Garlic Chicken pairs wonderfully with pasta. Choose fettuccine, linguine, or penne to soak up the sauce.
- Accompany with vegetables: Serve the chicken alongside sautéed spinach, steamed asparagus, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Add a starch: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes or a side of rice would be perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds color and freshness to the dish.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken
Serving Creamy Garlic Chicken is as simple as plating it alongside your favorite side dishes. Here are a few ideas to make your meal complete:
- Over pasta: Toss your favorite pasta in the creamy garlic sauce and place the chicken on top. This makes for a hearty and satisfying dish.
- With crusty bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread to mop up every last bit of the delicious sauce.
- On a bed of greens: For a lighter option, serve the chicken on a bed of mixed greens with a drizzle of the creamy sauce as a dressing.
Presentation Ideas for Creamy Garlic Chicken
When it comes to presentation, a few small touches can make your dish look as good as it tastes:
- Garnish with herbs: Fresh parsley or chives add a vibrant green contrast to the creamy white sauce.
- Use a white plate: Serving the dish on a white plate allows the colors of the chicken, sauce, and garnishes to pop.
- Layer the ingredients: For a more sophisticated look, layer the chicken over pasta or mashed potatoes, then drizzle the sauce artfully over the top.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe Tips
Here are a few additional tips to help you perfect your Creamy Garlic Chicken:
- Tenderizing the chicken: If your chicken breasts are thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness for quicker and more even cooking.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove and add the seared chicken to warm through.
- Leftover sauce: The sauce can be used as a delicious gravy for mashed potatoes or as a dip for bread.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs work well and are juicier than breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Q: Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken?
A: While you can freeze the chicken, the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh.
Q: What can I use instead of flour for dredging?
A: You can use cornstarch or almond flour as a gluten-free alternative.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe is the perfect blend of comfort and elegance, making it a great choice for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Don’t forget to experiment with different variations and make it your own. Enjoy!
PrintCreamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
This creamy garlic chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic, cooked to perfection in a rich and savory cream sauce. Keywords: creamy garlic chicken, garlic chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Flour for dredging
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 whole head garlic, cloves peeled
- ½ cup chicken broth or stock
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- Parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add remaining butter and peeled garlic cloves, sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Cook until reduced slightly.
- Stir in heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Return chicken to the pan, simmer until chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
- Garnish with parsley before serving if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of white wine to the sauce.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 46g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
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