A creamy, garlicky chicken dish that cooks fast and tastes rich.
introduction
This Creamy Garlic Chicken is simple and tasty. The sauce is rich with cream and parmesan. Garlic adds strong flavor. You can make it in one skillet. It works for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner.
why make this recipe
You should make this because it is fast and easy. It uses few ingredients. The sauce is smooth and fills the chicken with flavor. It feels special but does not take much time.
how to make Creamy Garlic Chicken
This section shows the main steps. Cook the chicken first, make the garlic cream sauce in the same pan, then return the chicken to the sauce so it soaks up the flavor.
Ingredients :
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions :
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook in the skillet until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine.
- Gradually add parmesan cheese while stirring, until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
- Return chicken to the skillet and coat it in the sauce.
- Garnish with parsley if desired and serve.
how to serve Creamy Garlic Chicken
Serve the chicken over cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. You can also add steamed vegetables on the side. Spoon extra sauce over the chicken and sides.
how to store Creamy Garlic Chicken
Let the dish cool to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream or milk when reheating if the sauce is thick.
tips to make Creamy Garlic Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry before cooking for a better sear.
- Do not burn the garlic; cook it until fragrant for best taste.
- Add parmesan slowly and stir so the sauce stays smooth.
- Use low to medium heat when simmering the sauce to avoid breaking it.
- Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper at the end.
variation (if any)
- Add mushrooms: cook sliced mushrooms after you remove the chicken, then add garlic and cream.
- Add spinach: stir fresh spinach into the sauce until wilted.
- Make it spicy: add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the garlic.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes. Use boneless, skinless thighs and cook until they reach 165°F (74°C). They may take a bit longer.
Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Use whole milk and a little flour or cornstarch to thicken if needed.
Q: How do I keep the sauce from clumping when I add the parmesan?
A: Stir constantly and add the cheese slowly. Keep the heat low so the cheese melts smoothly.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Cook and cool, then store in the fridge. Reheat gently and add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened.
Q: Is this recipe freezer safe?
A: You can freeze it, but the sauce may change texture. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
For another clear step-by-step version, see Creamy Garlic Chicken • Salt & Lavender for tips and photos. If you want a budget-friendly take, check Creamy Garlic Chicken – Budget Bytes. For more cozy variations and ideas, visit Creamy Garlic Chicken – The Cozy Cook.
Creamy Garlic Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts Boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking the chicken
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Adds strong flavor
- 1 cup heavy cream For the creamy sauce
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated Incorporate slowly for smooth sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste For seasoning
- Parsley for garnish Optional; adds color
Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook in the skillet until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine.
- Gradually add parmesan cheese while stirring, until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
Final Assembly
- Return chicken to the skillet and coat it in the sauce.
- Garnish with parsley if desired and serve.
