There are few things in life as comforting as a skillet full of creamy garlic chicken simmering gently on the stove. This dish brings together everything we love about home cooking: tender golden chicken, a rich buttery garlic sauce, and that irresistible scent wafting through the kitchen.
Whether you’re cooking for the family on a weeknight or hosting a cozy dinner with friends, this recipe is sure to impress without stressing you out.
It’s simple enough for beginners, yet fancy-feeling enough to make you feel like a pro. One skillet, a handful of wholesome ingredients, and 30 minutes later—you’ve got a restaurant-worthy meal that warms both the belly and the soul.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One skillet magic: Less cleanup, more flavor.
- Creamy and comforting: That garlic-Parmesan sauce is the star of the show.
- Customizable: Add veggies, spice it up, or serve it over your favorite base.
- Quick and easy: Ready in about 30 minutes.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 2–3
Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet
- Tongs or spatula
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups/spoons
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The main protein, juicy and tender when seared properly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps to brown the chicken and adds a fruity richness.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Forms the base of the garlic sauce, adding creaminess.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fragrant and flavorful, garlic is the hero of this dish.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth – Adds depth and balances the richness of the cream.
- 3/4 cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Salty, nutty, and helps thicken the sauce naturally.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional) – For thickening the sauce if needed.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – Adds color and a fresh, herby finish.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F). Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Base: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (but not browned).
- Create the Cream Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any golden bits from the bottom of the skillet—that’s flavor gold! Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Thicken (Optional): If the sauce feels a bit thin, whisk in a small amount of flour or cornstarch dissolved in water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Return the Chicken: Place the chicken back in the skillet, spoon some sauce over the top, and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to soak in all that goodness.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Variations to Try
- Add veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for more color and texture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Lighter option: Use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter sauce.
- Cheesy twist: Try Asiago or Gruyère instead of Parmesan.
Storing Leftovers and Reheating
- To store: Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- To reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
- Freezing not recommended due to the cream sauce potentially separating.
Serving Suggestions
- Over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice to soak up the sauce.
- With a side of steamed green beans or roasted broccoli.
- Spoon it over crusty bread for a comforting, rustic meal.
Pro Tips
- Butter timing is key: Don’t let the garlic brown too much—it turns bitter fast.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: It prevents the chicken from browning nicely.
- Rest the chicken: A few minutes of resting before slicing keeps the juices locked in.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and tastes fresher than pre-shredded.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet is one of those meals that reminds us how simple ingredients can shine when treated with a little love and care. It’s cozy, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re whipping it up after a long day or making it part of a special weekend meal, this dish delivers every time. Here’s to more delicious, no-fuss dinners ahead!
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Creamy Garlic Chicken
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a decadent one-pan wonder with tender chicken simmered in a velvety garlic cream sauce. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough for guests. Serve it with mashed potatoes, pasta, or a hunk of crusty bread to soak up every last drop.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tbsp flour (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F). Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Base: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (but not browned).
- Create the Cream Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any golden bits from the bottom of the skillet—that’s flavor gold! Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Thicken (Optional): If the sauce feels a bit thin, whisk in a small amount of flour or cornstarch dissolved in water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Return the Chicken: Place the chicken back in the skillet, spoon some sauce over the top, and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to soak in all that goodness.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
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