Creamy Garlic Chicken

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Delight in the rich flavors of this creamy garlic chicken, a dish that's both comforting and indulgent.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-11T12:35:41.911Z

This creamy garlic chicken is a family favorite, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The rich, garlicky sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken breasts.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy sauce that coats the chicken perfectly
Garlic lovers will rejoice at the flavor intensity
Quick and easy to prepare, making weeknight cooking a breeze

      

A Perfect Weeknight Delight

Creamy Garlic Chicken is the ideal recipe for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The straightforward cooking process allows you to whip up this dish in about 30 minutes, making it a perfect meal for those hectic evenings. Plus, with minimal cleanup required, you can enjoy a comforting dinner without the fuss.

Using simple, wholesome ingredients, this dish not only satisfies your hunger but also pleases your palate. The combination of succulent chicken breasts and a rich garlic cream sauce creates a delightful experience that everyone in your family will love. With just a few pantry staples, you can impress your loved ones with a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

Versatile Serving Suggestions

Creamy Garlic Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, enhancing its appeal and allowing you to customize your meal. For a classic touch, serve it alongside fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta. Alternatively, roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad can add a vibrant contrast to the rich sauce, balancing the flavors perfectly.

If you're looking for a lighter option, consider serving this dish over a bed of quinoa or brown rice, which will absorb the delicious sauce. You can also use this creamy chicken in wraps or sandwiches, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or lunchboxes. The versatility of this dish makes it a staple for any home cook.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Sauce

To achieve the perfect consistency for your creamy sauce, it's essential to keep an eye on the heat while simmering. Cooking over medium heat allows the ingredients to meld beautifully without risk of burning. Stirring frequently helps to prevent the cream from sticking to the bottom of the skillet, ensuring a smooth and velvety texture.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine before the broth. It will elevate the dish and add complexity to the sauce. Additionally, feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like basil or oregano if thyme isn't your favorite. These small tweaks can make a big difference and help tailor the recipe to your taste.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Creamy Sauce

4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Gather all the ingredients before you start for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Add Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, coating it with the creamy sauce. Allow it to simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your choice of side dishes.

Enjoy your delicious creamy garlic chicken!

Storing Leftovers

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, storing them properly is key to enjoying this dish again. Allow the creamy garlic chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream can help restore the sauce's creamy consistency, ensuring you enjoy the full flavor experience even on the second day.

Making it Your Own

This creamy garlic chicken recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to personalize it to your liking. For a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce. If you prefer a deeper flavor, sauté some onions with the garlic at the beginning.

Vegetarians can enjoy a similar dish by substituting the chicken with hearty mushrooms or tofu. Simply follow the same cooking steps, and you'll have a delicious plant-based meal that retains all the richness and comfort of the original.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well for this recipe and can add extra moisture.

→ How can I make this recipe lighter?

You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat cream alternative.

→ What sides pair well with creamy garlic chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and reheat them gently before serving.