You know those nights when you want something rich, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes? That’s exactly why I make this creamy garlic chicken at least once a week. The sauce! Oh my goodness—it’s so velvety and packed with garlicky goodness that you’ll want to lick the pan clean (no judgment here). I first discovered this recipe when I was desperate to impress my now-husband on one of our early dates. The moment he took that first bite, his eyes lit up, and I knew I had a keeper—both the recipe and the guy! What I love most is how the heavy cream and parmesan create this luxurious sauce that clings perfectly to juicy chicken. Trust me, this dish tastes way more complicated than it actually is.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken

This recipe has become my weeknight superhero for so many reasons:

• Ready in 30 minutes – From fridge to table faster than takeout!
• Minimal cleanup – One skillet does all the work
• Restaurant-quality flavor – That creamy garlic sauce tastes way fancier than it should
• Kid-approved – My picky eaters gobble it up (and get their veggies when I serve it with broccoli)
• Endlessly adaptable – Add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes when you’re feeling fancy

Seriously, this dish checks all the boxes – quick, comforting, and impressive enough for company. The first time I made it, I couldn’t believe something so simple could taste so decadent!

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make magic happen in your skillet tonight:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – about 6 oz each (pound them to even thickness if needed – trust me, it helps them cook evenly!)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – my go-to for that perfect golden sear
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – freshly minced is KEY (don’t you dare use that jarred stuff!)
• 1 cup heavy cream – this is where the magic happens – no skimping!
• 1/2 cup chicken broth – I use low-sodium so I can control the salt
• 1 teaspoon each dried oregano and thyme – my Italian grandma would approve
• Salt and pepper – to taste, but be generous with that chicken!
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan – the good stuff, not the powdered kind
• Fresh parsley – for that pretty pop of green at the end

See? Nothing crazy – just simple ingredients that transform into something spectacular. Now let’s get cooking!

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken

Okay, let’s get to the good stuff! This creamy garlic chicken comes together so easily, you’ll be amazed at how restaurant-quality it tastes. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a dish that’ll make everyone at the table think you slaved for hours.

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

First things first – heat that olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While it’s getting nice and hot, season both sides of your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. When the oil starts shimmering (that’s your cue it’s ready!), carefully add the chicken. Now here’s my secret – don’t touch it for 5-6 minutes! Let it get that beautiful golden crust. Flip and repeat on the other side until the internal temp hits 165°F. Remove to a plate and tent with foil – this keeps it juicy while we make the sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

In that same glorious skillet (don’t you dare wash it – all those browned bits equal flavor!), add the minced garlic. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant but not browned – burned garlic is the worst! Pour in the chicken broth and use your spoon to scrape up all those delicious browned bits from the pan. This is called deglazing, and it’s where the magic starts. Stir in the heavy cream, oregano, and thyme, then let it bubble gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the parmesan until it melts into creamy perfection.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Now for the grand finale! Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning that luscious sauce over each piece. Let everything cozy up together for another minute or two. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon nicely – if it’s too thick, add a splash more broth. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and freshness. And voila! You’ve just made the creamiest, dreamiest garlic chicken that’ll have everyone begging for seconds.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken

After making this dish countless times, I’ve picked up some game-changing tricks:

• Sauce too thin? Let it simmer a minute longer, or add an extra tablespoon of parmesan to thicken it up.
• Want some heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic adds the perfect kick!
• Garlic lovers? Double the garlic – I won’t tell! Just don’t burn it when sautéing.
• Chicken sticking? Make sure your pan is hot before adding it, and don’t move it until ready to flip.

These little tweaks can take your creamy garlic chicken from good to “oh my goodness, give me the recipe!”

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Garlic Chicken

This dreamy dish plays well with so many sides! My go-to is buttery mashed potatoes – they’re perfect for soaking up that luscious sauce. But honestly, it’s just as amazing over:

• Fluffy white rice (basmati is my favorite)
• Al dente fettuccine or egg noodles
• Crusty bread for mopping up every last drop
• Steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans

Honestly, I’d eat this sauce with a spoon, but that’s just between us!

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers? Lucky you! Store your creamy garlic chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. When reheating, go low and slow on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to bring the sauce back to its creamy glory. Microwaving works in a pinch, but tends to make the sauce separate – still tasty though!

Creamy Garlic Chicken Nutritional Information

Each serving (one chicken breast with sauce) packs about 420 calories, 28g fat (14g saturated), and 36g protein. Remember – these are estimates! Actual numbers can vary based on your exact ingredients and portion sizes. The parmesan adds calcium while the garlic brings all those wonderful health benefits we love.

FAQs About Creamy Garlic Chicken

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Oh honey, I wouldn’t recommend it! Milk just doesn’t have the fat content to create that luscious, velvety texture. If you absolutely must substitute, try half-and-half – but trust me, the heavy cream is worth every calorie.

What if my sauce separates?
Don’t panic! Just whisk in a tablespoon of cold butter off heat – it’ll come right back together. This sometimes happens if the sauce gets too hot or sits too long.

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! Cook the chicken and sauce separately, then combine when reheating. The sauce might thicken in the fridge – just thin it with a splash of broth when warming.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes indeed! Just double-check that your chicken broth is gluten-free (some brands add sneaky thickeners). Serve over rice or potatoes for a complete GF meal.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?
You bet! Thighs add even more flavor – just cook them a few minutes longer since they’re thicker. The extra fat makes the sauce even richer!

Did you make this creamy garlic chicken? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram – your feedback makes my day!

Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe That Melts in Your Mouth

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• Author: Christina R. Jones
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Lactose

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Description

A delicious and easy-to-make creamy garlic chicken dish that’s perfect for dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the pan.
5. Stir in heavy cream, oregano, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Add parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
7. Return chicken to the skillet and coat with the creamy sauce. Simmer for 2 minutes.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a little more chicken broth.
• Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: creamy garlic chicken, easy chicken recipe, garlic sauce