Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy garlic chicken is a rich and flavorful dish that brings comfort and elegance to the dinner table with minimal effort. This one-pan recipe combines tender, seared chicken breasts with a luscious garlic cream sauce that’s bursting with savory depth. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, it’s a versatile main course that pairs wonderfully with pasta, potatoes, or fresh vegetables. The aroma alone will have everyone gathered around the table in anticipation. Best of all, it’s quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 6 oz each)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
  
  

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 6 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  
  

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce:
   In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan and scrape up any browned bits. Simmer for 2–3 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

4. Combine and Serve:
   Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
   
   

Serving Suggestions

This dish yields 4 servings and can be enjoyed with a variety of sides:

• Pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)

• Creamy mashed potatoes

• Steamed or sautéed green vegetables

• Warm, crusty bread for dipping in the sauce
  
  

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Note: Approximate values. Actual nutrition may vary depending on exact ingredients used.

• Calories: 450–550 kcal

• Protein: 35–40g

• Fat: 30–35g

• Carbohydrates: 5–10g

• Fiber: 0–1g

• Sugar: 1–2g

• Sodium: 600–800mg
  
  

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

• Freezing: You can freeze the cooled chicken and sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  
  

This creamy garlic chicken recipe is perfect for when you want something fast, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you're hosting guests or just feeding your family, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.