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Creamy garlic chicken is the kind of dish that makes any meal feel comforting and special. Juicy pieces of chicken are cooked to a golden brown before being smothered in a rich, velvety sauce that combines fragrant garlic with luscious cream. It comes together quickly with everyday ingredients and always satisfies, turning an ordinary evening into something memorable.
I first whipped this up when I had unexpected guests one evening and they couldn’t stop raving about how comforting and indulgent it was. It quickly became my go-to when I want to impress without stress.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts or thighs: choose fresh or well-trimmed pieces for juicy meat
- Garlic: the star of the dish for an aromatic, savory depth
- Heavy cream: creates the luscious texture that makes the sauce unforgettable
- Olive oil: helps achieve that beautiful golden sear
- Salt and black pepper: simple seasoning that enhances all flavors
- Chicken broth or stock: adds gentle savory notes and thins the sauce just enough
- Fresh parsley: a bright finishing touch for color and freshness
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pat chicken dry and season with salt and pepper. Place the chicken skin side down or smooth side if skinless. Cook for about 6 minutes without moving it to develop a deep golden crust. Flip and cook another 5 minutes until just cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic:
- Reduce heat to medium low and add minced garlic to the skillet. Cook gently for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and slightly golden but not burnt. This gentle cooking draws out the garlic’s sweetness and depth.
- Make the Cream Sauce:
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Let it simmer for a minute to reduce slightly. Then add the heavy cream and stir. Allow the sauce to thicken over medium low heat, about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Finish:
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over each piece. Let everything simmer together for 3 to 4 minutes so the flavors meld and the chicken finishes cooking perfectly in the sauce. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving.
I adore the cream sauce because it feels indulgent but comes together so easily. One family dinner evening, my usually picky eaters declared this their new favorite, asking for it week after week. The garlic cream sauce elevates simple chicken into something truly special.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat to prevent the cream from breaking. This dish also freezes well. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap heavy cream with half and half or whole milk mixed with a spoonful of flour for a lighter sauce. Use chicken thighs for more flavor and tenderness, especially if they have skin. If you want extra flavor, add a splash of white wine when making the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles to make a hearty meal. A side of sautéed green beans or roasted broccoli brings balance and a pop of color. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness perfectly.
Serve warm garnished with chopped parsley and enjoy with mashed potatoes or crusty bread. Reheat gently to preserve the cream sauce texture.
Common Questions About the Recipe
- → What cut of chicken works best for this dish?
Chicken breasts or thighs both work well, with thighs offering more juiciness and breasts providing leaner meat.
- → How do I achieve a creamy sauce without curdling?
Simmer the cream gently and avoid boiling, stirring frequently to maintain a smooth, velvety texture.
- → Can I add vegetables to enhance the dish?
Yes, mushrooms or spinach complement the creamy sauce well and add extra flavor and nutrition.
- → What sides pair well with creamy garlic chicken?
Steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or buttered pasta are excellent choices to balance the richness.
- → How long does it take to prepare this dish?
From start to finish, it typically takes under 30 minutes, making it ideal for quick, comforting meals.