Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: creamy garlic chicken! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, with tender chicken swimming in a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce that just makes your taste buds dance. Seriously, every time I make it, the aroma fills my kitchen and draws everyone in. It’s quick to whip up, which is perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want something special. I remember the first time I made this for my family—they were blown away! They couldn’t believe how something so simple could taste so gourmet. Trust me, once you try this creamy garlic chicken, it’ll become your go-to recipe for cozy dinners and special gatherings alike!

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 boneless chicken breasts: Look for plump, fresh breasts for the best flavor and tenderness.
2 tablespoons olive oil: This will help sear the chicken and add a lovely richness.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must; it gives that irresistible aroma and flavor.
1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce creamy and luxurious—don’t skimp on it!
1 cup chicken broth: Use low-sodium broth for a balanced taste.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs to elevate the dish with its fragrant notes.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning your chicken just right.
Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and freshness to your finished dish.

How to Prepare Creamy Garlic Chicken

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the cooking process! I promise, it’s easier than you think and oh-so-rewarding. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal right at home!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. You want that oil nice and hot to get a good sear on the chicken!
While the oil is heating, season your 4 boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This seasoning is key for flavor!
Once the oil’s shimmering, carefully add the chicken to the pan. Cook it for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. You want that nice crust!
When the chicken is done, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate. Don’t worry; it’ll stay juicy while you make the sauce.
In the same pan, toss in your 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Watch it closely—it can burn quickly!
Next, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—those add amazing flavor!
Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, letting everything blend together beautifully.
Finally, return the chicken to the pan and let it simmer in that luscious sauce for 5-10 minutes, until it thickens up. Oh, the smell is divine!
Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley before serving. It adds the perfect touch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy garlic chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Here’s why you’ll adore it:

Quick to prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
Flavor-packed: The rich garlic cream sauce elevates the chicken to a whole new level.
Comfort food at its finest: It’s warm, satisfying, and feels like a hug in a bowl.
Versatile: Great on its own or served with rice or pasta for a complete meal.
Impressive enough for guests: Your family and friends will think you’re a culinary genius!

Tips for Success with Creamy Garlic Chicken

To make sure your creamy garlic chicken turns out absolutely perfect, here are a few tips from my kitchen to yours:

Don’t rush the searing: Let your chicken get a nice golden crust; it adds so much flavor!
Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic makes all the difference in taste. Avoid the pre-minced stuff!
Adjust the cream: If you want a lighter sauce, feel free to swap half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk, but keep an eye on the cooking time.
Taste as you go: Always taste your sauce before serving. A little extra seasoning might make it sing!
Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.

Variations of Creamy Garlic Chicken

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to customize this creamy garlic chicken! Here are some delicious ideas:

Add veggies: Toss in some spinach, mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. They’ll soak up that creamy goodness!
Spice it up: For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. Your taste buds will thank you!
Creamy herb variations: Try swapping out the Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different twist.
Cheesy goodness: Stir in some grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese at the end for an even richer sauce.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas; the possibilities are endless while keeping that creamy essence intact!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Just a quick note: the nutritional information for this creamy garlic chicken can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I do my best to provide accurate data, it’s always a good idea to check the labels for the most precise nutritional content. Enjoy your cooking!

FAQ About Creamy Garlic Chicken

Got questions about this creamy garlic chicken? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more flavor and tenderness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since they might take a bit longer to cook through.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt. Keep in mind that this may change the texture a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!

How can I make it gluten-free?
Simply ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free, and you’re good to go! This creamy garlic chicken is naturally gluten-free with the right broth.

Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving to maintain that creamy texture.

What pairs well with creamy garlic chicken?
This dish goes wonderfully with rice, pasta, or steamed veggies. A crisp salad on the side is also a great addition!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving creamy garlic chicken, the options are as delightful as the dish itself! I love pairing it with fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that luscious sauce—yum! If you’re in the mood for something a bit lighter, a side of steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach adds a fresh touch that balances out the richness. And don’t forget about pasta! Tossing it in the creamy sauce is simply divine. For drinks, a crisp white wine or a sparkling lemonade can elevate the meal even more. Enjoy every bite!

For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page!

Creamy garlic chicken: 5 Reasons It’s Your New Favorite Dish

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Low Calorie

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy garlic chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish made with tender chicken cooked in a rich garlic cream sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Add chicken to the pan and cook until browned on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side.
Remove chicken and set aside.
In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning.
Return chicken to the pan and simmer for 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Serve with rice or pasta.
Adjust garlic according to taste.
Can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
Calories: 450
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 40g
Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: creamy garlic chicken, chicken recipes, garlic chicken

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