Creamy Garlic Chicken

A refined and comforting dish where tender chicken meets a luxuriously smooth garlic cream sauce—perfect for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish offers rich garlic flavor without being overpowering, thanks to the mellowing of garlic in the sauce. It’s quick to prepare, luxurious in texture, and pairs beautifully with a wide range of side dishes. Its combination of creaminess and subtle seasoning makes it a go-to recipe for both casual and special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper

• Optional seasoning: Italian seasoning or paprika

• All-purpose flour (for dusting)

• Olive oil and unsalted butter

• Garlic, minced or thinly sliced

• Chicken stock or broth

• Heavy cream

• Parmesan cheese, grated

• Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)

• Fresh parsley and lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Directions

1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings. Lightly coat with flour.

2. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium–high heat. Sear chicken until golden brown and nearly cooked through, then remove from the skillet.

3. Reduce heat, melt additional butter, and add garlic. Sauté until fragrant.

4. Pour in chicken stock and let it reduce by half.

5. Stir in heavy cream and Dijon mustard if using, and simmer until the sauce begins to thicken.

6. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth and creamy.

7. Return the chicken to the skillet and cook for 2–3 more minutes until fully done.

8. Serve with chopped parsley and a wedge of lemon if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Serves: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20–30 minutes

• Total Time: 30–40 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor.

• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter or dairy-free version.

• Add mushrooms, spinach, or caramelized onions for extra flavor and texture.

• Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, fresh note.

Storage / Reheating

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

• To freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months (note: sauce may slightly change texture).

• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce is too thick. Microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals.

FAQs

How can I keep the chicken moist?

Cook only until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and avoid overcooking.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, replace butter with oil and use coconut milk or plant-based cream.

Will freezing change the sauce?

It may slightly alter the texture, but whisking while reheating helps restore creaminess.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

Simmer longer or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry.

Can I make this with chicken thighs?

Yes, just adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs take longer.

What sides go well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or crusty bread are excellent options.

What if the sauce separates when reheating?

Gently whisk in a splash of cream or warm milk until smooth.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, store in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, if you replace flour with a gluten-free alternative or omit it.

Does the garlic flavor overpower the dish?

No, cooking softens and sweetens the garlic, giving a balanced flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken combines the elegance of a restaurant-quality meal with the ease of a weeknight dinner. With its velvety sauce, tender chicken, and adaptable flavor profile, it’s a recipe that fits seamlessly into both everyday cooking and special occasions

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