Go Back
Creamy Garlic Chicken served as a delicious and appetizing featured image.

Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken

Avatar photoAmelia Chen-Morrison
This Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Tender chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection and then simmered in a rich and flavorful creamy garlic sauce, making it a family favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Small bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Meat thermometer
  • Paper towels
  • Plate

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish optional
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

Instructions
 

  • Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
  • In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
  • Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
  • Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it's golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
  • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
  • Add the red pepper flakes, if desired.
  • Simmer the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
  • Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet and nestle them into the creamy garlic sauce.
  • Spoon the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it's nicely coated.
  • Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to warm through and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

Don't overcook the chicken. Adjust the garlic to your liking. To thicken the sauce, whisk 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the sauce. Add vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Serve over pasta, rice, vegetables, or with bread.