Description
Creamy Garlic Chicken features succulent chicken breasts cooked in a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce. The sauce is infused with fresh garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese for a comforting, flavorful dish that pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet simple.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or fresh basil and thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
-
Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. -
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to burn it. Add the chicken broth (or white wine) and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. -
Add Cream and Parmesan:
Reduce the heat to medium-low, then stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Season with additional salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if desired) to taste.
-
Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the creamy garlic sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to ensure the chicken is coated and heated through.
Notes
- For a lower-fat version, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream, but the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.
- You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a crispy chicken exterior, you can finish the chicken in the oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes after searing it.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Creamy Garlic Chicken, Garlic Chicken, Easy Chicken Dinner, Creamy Chicken Recipe, Chicken in Garlic Sauce, Comfort Food Chicke