This creamy garlic chicken is packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes. It’s a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and garlicky notes that go wonderfully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. The sauce clings beautifully to the chicken, making every bite satisfying. Plus, it’s made with pantry staples and cooks in one skillet—less cleanup, more taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper
Olive oil or butter
Garlic cloves (minced)
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Italian seasoning or dried herbs (optional)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened.
Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and let it simmer together for 2–3 more minutes.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 25–30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a quick, cozy dinner.
Variations
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
Swap chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.
Use coconut milk for a dairy-free version, though the flavor will slightly change.
Add a dash of white wine to deglaze the pan before adding cream.
Spice it up with red pepper flakes or paprika for a bit of heat.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. This dish is not ideal for freezing, as the cream sauce may separate.
FAQs
Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of fresh?
Yes, you can, but fresh garlic provides the most robust flavor. Use about 1 teaspoon of pre-minced garlic per clove.
What can I serve with creamy garlic chicken?
It pairs well with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead, but it’s best served fresh. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear when sliced.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely. Spinach, mushrooms, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes all make great additions.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken if needed.
Can I make this dish keto-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is already low in carbs. Just ensure your sides are keto-friendly (like cauliflower mash or zoodles).
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your broth and Parmesan are certified gluten-free.
How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
Simmer the sauce a little longer, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken it to your liking.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients, but cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a satisfying, flavorful meal that comes together quickly with just a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or hosting guests, this dish delivers a comforting and impressive result every time. Serve it over your favorite sides and enjoy a rich, garlic-loaded meal that’s sure to become a regular on your menu
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a quick and comforting one-skillet dish featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. It’s ready in under 30 minutes and perfect served over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
4–5 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil or butter. Add the chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Reduce heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Add Italian seasoning if using. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
Return the chicken to the pan and spoon the sauce over the top. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes to heat through.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option.
For added flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding cream.
Add spinach or mushrooms for a veggie boost.
Use coconut milk for a dairy-free version (note: flavor will vary).
