1️⃣ Introduction
Creamy Garlic Chicken is one of those “how is this so good with such simple ingredients?” kind of meals. Juicy pan-seared chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, garlicky cream sauce that’s silky, comforting, and packed with flavor.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights and fancy enough for guests. One skillet, minimal prep, and big restaurant-style vibes—this recipe is a total winner.
2️⃣ Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6–7 oz each)
- 1 tsp Salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Paprika
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 6–7 garlic cloves, finely minced (fresh is best)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
- ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
3️⃣ Essential Kitchen Tools & Appliances
- Large skillet or frying pan (heavy-bottom works best)
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups & Measuring spoons
- Tongs
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Whisk (for smooth sauce)
4️⃣ Preparation Steps (Barney Style 🦕)
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels (this helps it brown better).
- Season both sides of chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Mince the garlic and grate the Parmesan cheese.
- Measure out cream and broth so everything is ready before cooking.
👉 Once the pan gets hot, things move fast—prep first!
5️⃣ Cooking Instructions (The Magic Happens Here ✨)
- Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken breasts and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce
4. In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add 1 tbsp butter.
5. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–40 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it burn).
6. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up all the flavorful bits from the pan.
7. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
8. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring gently, until sauce thickens.
Finish
9. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over it.
10. Simmer everything together for 2–3 minutes.
🔥 Secret Tip: If sauce gets too thick, add a splash of broth. Too thin? Simmer one extra minute.
6️⃣ Serving Suggestions 🍽️
Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken with:
- Fluffy mashed potatoes
- Steamed rice or garlic butter rice
- Pasta or fettuccine
- Roasted vegetables or sautéed green beans
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for that final chef’s touch.
7️⃣ Additional Tips & Variations
- Make it healthier: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
- Add veggies: Mushrooms or spinach work beautifully in the sauce.
- Extra flavor boost: Add ½ tsp garlic powder along with fresh garlic.
- Keto-friendly: Serve with cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles.
- Spicy version: Add extra chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
8️⃣ Nutrition Details (Per Serving – Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Fat | 34 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 520 mg |
9️⃣ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless thighs work great and stay extra juicy.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze creamy garlic chicken?
Cream sauces don’t freeze perfectly, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Reheat gently.
Q: What can I use instead of Parmesan?
Pecorino Romano or Asiago are great substitutes.
Q: How do I reheat without splitting the sauce?
Reheat on low heat and add a splash of milk or broth.
🔟 Wrap-Up
Creamy Garlic Chicken is comfort food at its finest—simple ingredients, bold garlic flavor, and a sauce so good you’ll want to lick the pan. It’s one of those recipes you’ll keep coming back to, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Fun fact: Garlic has been used in cooking for over 5,000 years, and honestly… this recipe proves why it’s still undefeated 🧄💛
