Creamy Garlic Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that feels both comforting and elegant, you’ve come to the right place! Creamy Garlic Chicken is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or special family dinners. The velvety garlic sauce coats tender chicken, making every bite a delightful experience. What I love most about this recipe is how quickly it comes together—ready in under 20 minutes! You can whip it up after a long day or impress guests with a gourmet meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you pair it with fluffy mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or your favorite pasta, it’s sure to become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, this dish appeals to both kids and adults alike!
• Versatile Pairings: Enjoy it with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta—there are so many options to make it your own!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the chicken and sauce earlier in the day for an even quicker dinner later on.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, cream, and parmesan creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this comforting dish is easy with simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half horizontally to make 4 steaks
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ¼ cup (35 g) plain (all-purpose flour)

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp freshly minced garlic
• ½ cup (125 ml) chicken stock
• 300 ml (10 fl oz) thickened (heavy) cream
• 1 tsp dijon mustard
• ½ cup (50 g) grated parmesan

To Serve

• Sea salt flakes, to taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Mashed potatoes, steamed rice or pasta
• Steamed greens
• 1 tbsp finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
• Lemon wedges

Variations

This recipe is flexible and allows you to get creative! Here are a few variations you might enjoy:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey cutlets or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes while cooking for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like a kick, add some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Change the cheese: Swap parmesan for another cheese like mozzarella or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, sweet paprika, onion powder, and thyme. This step infuses flavor right into the meat. Then press each piece into flour until well coated. This will help create a lovely crust when cooking!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Place the chicken in the pan and cook for about 5–6 minutes until it’s golden brown on both sides. Removing the chicken at this point ensures it stays juicy while we prepare our creamy sauce.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In that same pan, add another tablespoon of butter. Once melted, stir in your minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds—this releases all those beautiful flavors! Next, pour in the chicken stock and let it reduce by half; this concentrates the flavor even more.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Stir in the thickened cream and dijon mustard; reduce heat to medium. Let this simmer for about two minutes until slightly thickened. Finally, mix in your parmesan cheese—this is where things get wonderfully creamy!

Step 5: Finish Cooking

Return your cooked chicken to the pan for an additional 2–3 minutes so it absorbs all that gorgeous sauce. Taste one last time and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Plate your creamy garlic chicken alongside mashed potatoes or pasta and some steamed greens. Top with freshly chopped parsley and add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Garlic Chicken

Cooking can sometimes feel daunting, but with a few handy tips, you’ll create a dish that dazzles! Here are some expert suggestions to elevate your Creamy Garlic Chicken.

• Prep the chicken ahead of time: Cutting and seasoning the chicken breast in advance not only saves time but also allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, enhancing the overall taste.
• Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic packs a punch compared to its pre-minced counterparts. It gives your sauce an aromatic depth that will make your kitchen smell divine!
• Don’t rush the sauce: Allowing the sauce to simmer for a couple of minutes helps it thicken and meld the flavors beautifully. Patience is key for that creamy perfection!
• Taste as you go: Adjusting seasonings throughout cooking ensures that your final dish is perfectly seasoned. A little extra salt or pepper can make all the difference!
• Experiment with herbs: While thyme works wonderfully, feel free to try other herbs like rosemary or basil for a unique twist. Fresh herbs can brighten up the flavor profile.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken

Serving Creamy Garlic Chicken is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some delightful ideas to enhance your meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh flat-leaf parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, making your dish visually appealing and vibrant.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside provides a zesty kick that brightens up each bite, balancing out the creaminess of the sauce.

Side Dishes

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up all that luscious garlic sauce, providing comfort with every forkful.
• Steamed rice: Fluffy steamed rice serves as a neutral base that complements the rich flavors of the chicken without overpowering it.
• Pasta: Tossing pasta in the creamy garlic sauce creates an indulgent experience; consider using fettuccine or penne for added texture.
• Steamed greens: Lightly steamed greens such as broccoli or green beans add a healthy crunch and vibrant color to your plate, balancing out the richness of the dish.

With these serving suggestions and tips in mind, you’re on track to impress family and friends with your Creamy Garlic Chicken! Enjoy every delicious bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy delicious, creamy goodness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful dish, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I make Creamy Garlic Chicken without cream?

Absolutely! You can use coconut cream or a non-dairy milk alternative with a thickening agent like cornstarch for a lighter version.

What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or your favorite pasta. Don’t forget some greens on the side!

How long does Creamy Garlic Chicken last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Creamy Garlic Chicken?

Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully too and can add extra flavor and tenderness to your dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe as delightful as I do! It’s quick enough for busy weeknights but feels special enough to impress at any dinner table. Enjoy making this comforting dish that brings warmth and joy. Your kitchen is going to smell amazing—happy cooking!