Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken: A Luxurious, Velvety Dream in Every Bite 🍗🧄✨

1. Introduction

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this irresistible Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe from our dinner recipe collection! Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish features tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, velvety garlic sauce that will make your taste buds sing. The combination of aromatic garlic, savory Parmesan, and smooth cream creates a symphony of flavors that’s both elegant and satisfying. If you love creamy chicken dishes, you might also enjoy exploring our complete recipe archive for more delicious ideas.

2. Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create this restaurant-quality dish at home:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (regular paprika works too)
• 2 tablespoons high-quality olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
• 6 large garlic cloves, finely minced (about 2 tablespoons)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (for better flavor control)
• 1 cup heavy cream or whipping cream (35% MF)
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (not pre-shredded)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

For those looking for alternative ingredients, check out our Budget Bytes version of this recipe that uses more economical ingredients.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels – this ensures a perfect sear. If your chicken breasts are very thick (over 1 inch), consider butterflying them for even cooking. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. This simple seasoning blend will enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and create a beautiful crust when seared. For more chicken preparation tips, visit our About page where we share professional cooking techniques.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet (preferably stainless steel or cast iron) over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers before adding the chicken – this ensures proper searing. Add the chicken breasts and cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate tented with foil to keep warm. Don’t worry about cooking through completely as it will finish in the sauce later.

Step 3: Create the Garlic Base

In the same skillet (don’t wash it – those browned bits equal flavor!), reduce heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. The aroma should be heavenly! If you love garlic as much as we do, you might enjoy our garlic bread recipes too.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, using a wooden spoon to scrape up all those flavorful browned bits. This is where the magic happens! Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Let the sauce simmer gently (not boil) for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly – it should coat the back of a spoon. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce, and spoon the sauce over the top. Let everything heat through together for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

4. Serving Suggestions

This creamy garlic chicken pairs beautifully with so many sides! Here are our top recommendations:

• Garlic mashed potatoes (double the garlic goodness!)
• Buttered pasta or fettuccine (perfect for soaking up sauce)
• Steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans
• Crusty bread or our homemade bread rolls
• A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette

5. Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken when chilled – simply add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. We don’t recommend freezing as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

6. Variations

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Try these delicious twists:

• Add 1 cup sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy flavor
• Stir in 2 cups fresh spinach at the end for extra nutrients
• Swap chicken for shrimp for a decadent seafood version
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version
• Add a splash of white wine when deglazing the pan
• Try our sourdough discard in the breading for a crispy coating

7. Tips for Success

Follow these pro tips for perfect results every time:

• Use freshly grated Parmesan – pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents that can make sauce grainy
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing – cook in batches if needed
• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving for juicier results
• Adjust garlic quantity to your preference – we love lots!
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness (165°F)
• If sauce is too thin, simmer longer; if too thick, add more broth

8. Nutritional Information

Each serving (1 chicken breast with ¼ of the sauce) contains approximately:

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 35g (excellent source)
• Carbohydrates: 5g (low-carb friendly)
• Fat: 32g (includes 18g saturated fat)
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 2g
• Calcium: 20% DV
• Iron: 8% DV

9. Conclusion

This creamy garlic chicken recipe is sure to become a family favorite with its perfect balance of rich, comforting flavors and simple preparation. The luxurious sauce transforms ordinary chicken breasts into an extraordinary meal that feels restaurant-quality. Whether you’re cooking for a special date night or just craving some serious comfort food, this dish delivers every time. For more comforting recipes, check out our sourdough discard creations. Try it tonight and experience the magic of creamy garlic chicken! And don’t forget to read our disclaimer for important recipe notes.

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