Creamy Garlic Chicken

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Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken is the ultimate comfort food — rich, satisfying, and full of flavor. This dish features tender, juicy chicken breasts pan-seared until golden, then simmered in a luscious garlic cream sauce infused with Parmesan cheese and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply craving a cozy homemade dinner, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

It pairs beautifully with pasta, fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies. Plus, it’s quick enough for a busy weeknight and elegant enough for special gatherings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or substitute with thighs for extra juiciness)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Cream Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 6 to 8 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a blend of dried basil, thyme, and oregano)
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh chopped parsley or basil, for garnish

Instructions

1. Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Once hot and shimmering, add the chicken breasts. Sear for 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C / 165°F).

Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover lightly with foil to keep warm.

2. Build the Garlic Base

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown or burn — this is where the flavor begins!

3. Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any caramelized bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about 2 to 3 minutes so the broth reduces slightly, intensifying the flavor.

4. Create the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Let it warm through for about 2 minutes.

Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes rich and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.

5. Return the Chicken

Carefully place the chicken breasts back into the skillet, coating them in the sauce. Simmer for an additional 3 to 5 minutes so the flavors can meld and the chicken is warmed through.

6. Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve immediately over your choice of pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, with a generous spoonful of that creamy garlic sauce.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pasta: Serve over fettuccine or linguine for a hearty Italian-style dinner.
  • Rice: Pair with fluffy basmati or jasmine rice to soak up every drop of sauce.
  • Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or sautéed spinach make excellent sides.
  • Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce complements the buttery texture perfectly.

Tips for Success

  • Juicy Chicken: For even cooking, pound thick chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking.
  • Extra Creamy Sauce: Add a touch more Parmesan if you like your sauce extra cheesy.
  • Flavor Boosters: Add sliced mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach to the sauce for extra texture and flavor.
  • Spice It Up: For those who love heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

 

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