Description
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a luscious one-pan dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich garlic cream sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners, this recipe pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 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
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- 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.
- 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.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For a healthier option, use half-and-half or light cream instead of heavy cream.
- Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus to the sauce for extra nutrition.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.