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Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe – Easy Meals To Cook

Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

As a food enthusiast and registered dietitian, every recipe I create comes loaded with memories and experiences. Cooking isn’t just about food; it’s about sharing. 

Today, I’d love to take you on a delicious journey where creamy garlic chicken steals the show. This dish is not just another recipe; it’s a blend of flavors, memories, and a sprinkle of culinary magic.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

What is Creamy Garlic Chicken?

Creamy garlic chicken is a rich, comforting dish perfect for any dinner table. Picture this: tender chicken breasts bathed in a creamy sauce infused with the boldness of garlic and complemented by savory chicken stock and a touch of Parmesan. 

It’s hearty. It’s satisfying. And above all, it’s simple enough for any home cook to master.

The allure of creamy garlic chicken lies in its balance. The sweetness of the cream contrasts beautifully with the sharpness of the garlic. 

When done right, every bite feels indulgent, yet you know it’s laced with love and care. It’s a recipe passed down in many households, but it’s still ripe for exploration.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken

  • Simplicity: You don’t need to be a chef to create a stunning dish. With just a handful of ingredients, you can impress your family and friends.
  • Flexibility: This recipe adapts beautifully. Want to spice things up? Add more garlic or some chili flakes. Keep it mild? Adjust as you see fit.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: From kids to adults, everyone enjoys creamy garlic chicken. It’s just one of those dishes that brings smiles to the table.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and reheat it when guests arrive. Less stress in the kitchen means more quality time with loved ones.
  • Comfort Food: After a long day, nothing beats a comforting bowl of creamy goodness.

The Ingredients

Let's take a closer look at what you’ll need to bring this recipe to life. Feel free to grab your apron and the following ingredients:

  • 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breast fillets
  • 1/4 cup plain flour
  • 1/2 tsp zesty Italian herb blend
  • 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1 whole head of garlic (around 8-9 cloves)
  • 1 cup rich chicken stock
  • 3/4 cup velvety heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp roasted garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

These ingredients come together to create a melody of flavors, making this dish a must-try!

Creamy Garlic Chicken Copycat Recipe

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Start by heating the extra virgin olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a pan over medium heat.

Once the butter melts and shimmers, add the whole head of garlic—yes, all those beautiful cloves! Cooking them gently allows the flavors to release. Stir continuously for about two minutes until fragrant. Keep an eye on them; you don’t want any brown bits!

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the garlic works its magic, it’s time to prepare the chicken. Season it with salt, pepper, and that zesty Italian herb blend. Then, lightly coat them in flour. This creates a beautiful crust.

In a different pan, add the remaining butter. Once it’s melting, carefully place the chicken breasts in. Sauté for about six to seven minutes on each side until golden brown. The smell will draw everyone in, so prepare for some hungry faces!

Step 3: Add the Chicken Stock

Once your chicken is perfectly browned, it’s time to introduce the chicken stock. Pour in a cup to create depth. Scrape up any bits stuck to the pan; that’s where the flavor is.

Let it simmer for about five minutes. This process keeps the chicken juicy and tender.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Now, let’s bring the cream into the party! Slowly add the heavy cream and stir. You’ll see the magic happen as the sauce thickens.

At this point, toss in the grated Parmesan cheese, roasted garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Want more garlic? Go for it!

Step 5: Final Touch & Serve

Return the chicken to the pan, making sure each piece gets fully coated in this creamy luscious sauce. Let everything mingle for another three to four minutes.

Once the flavors blend and the sauce thickens to your desired consistency, it’s showtime! Carefully plate the chicken and drizzle any extra sauce over the top.

Pro Tip: Garnish with parsley or more cheese if you like.

Tips & Tricks

  • Don’t rush the garlic: Sauté it on medium heat and give it time to release its flavors.
  • Rest the chicken: After cooking, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy.
  • Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs greatly enhance the flavor.
  • Adjust the creaminess: For a lighter version, you can substitute half the cream with milk.
  • Try it with different proteins: While the classic is chicken, pork or shrimp can also be delicious alternatives.

Can I Store Creamy Garlic Chicken?

Yes! If you happen to have leftovers (which is a rare occurrence), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days.

To reheat, pop it in a microwave, or warm it gently on the stove. Add a splash of cream if it thickens too much during storage. Enjoy that second helping!

What Can I Serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken?

  • Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up that velvety sauce!
  • Pasta: Toss it with your favorite noodle for an unforgettable meal.
  • Steamed veggies: Balance the richness with some greens like broccoli or green beans.
  • Rice: A fluffy bed for your creamy chicken, soaking in all those flavors.
  • Mashed potatoes: Did someone say comfort food? Yes, please!

Variations

  • Mushroom Garlic Chicken: Slice up some fresh mushrooms and sauté them alongside the garlic for an earthy twist.
  • Pesto Garlic Chicken: Stir in some basil pesto while creating the creamy sauce for herbal tones and bright green color.
  • Spinach Garlic Chicken: Add fresh spinach to the sauce before you serve for a pop of color and nutrition boost.
  • Lemon Garlic Chicken: Squeeze fresh lemon juice or zest into the sauce for a refreshing zing.
  • Spicy Garlic Chicken: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Best Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

Conclusion

Get ready for compliments and happy bellies—enjoy your culinary journey with creamy garlic chicken!

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Cuisine
Courses
Difficulty Intermediate
Time
Prep Time: 10 mins Cook Time: 30 mins Total Time: 40 mins
Servings 4
Calories 179 kcal
Best Season Suitable throughout the year
Description

As a food enthusiast and registered dietitian, every recipe I create comes loaded with memories and experiences. Cooking isn’t just about food; it’s about sharing. 

Today, I’d love to take you on a delicious journey where creamy garlic chicken steals the show. This dish is not just another recipe; it’s a blend of flavors, memories, and a sprinkle of culinary magic.

Ingredients
  • 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breast fillets
  • 1/4 cup plain flour
  • 1/2 tsp zesty Italian herb blend
  • 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1 whole head of garlic (around 8-9 cloves)
  • 1 cup rich chicken stock
  • 3/4 cup velvety heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp roasted garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
    Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
  1. Start by heating the extra virgin olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a pan over medium heat.

    Once the butter melts and shimmers, add the whole head of garlic—yes, all those beautiful cloves! Cooking them gently allows the flavors to release. Stir continuously for about two minutes until fragrant. Keep an eye on them; you don’t want any brown bits!

  2. Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
  3. While the garlic works its magic, it’s time to prepare the chicken. Season it with salt, pepper, and that zesty Italian herb blend. Then, lightly coat them in flour. This creates a beautiful crust.

    In a different pan, add the remaining butter. Once it’s melting, carefully place the chicken breasts in. Sauté for about six to seven minutes on each side until golden brown. The smell will draw everyone in, so prepare for some hungry faces!

  4. Step 3: Add the Chicken Stock
  5. Once your chicken is perfectly browned, it’s time to introduce the chicken stock. Pour in a cup to create depth. Scrape up any bits stuck to the pan; that’s where the flavor is.

    Let it simmer for about five minutes. This process keeps the chicken juicy and tender.

  6. Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
  7. Now, let’s bring the cream into the party! Slowly add the heavy cream and stir. You’ll see the magic happen as the sauce thickens.

    At this point, toss in the grated Parmesan cheese, roasted garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Want more garlic? Go for it!

  8. Step 5: Final Touch & Serve
  9. Return the chicken to the pan, making sure each piece gets fully coated in this creamy luscious sauce. Let everything mingle for another three to four minutes.

    Once the flavors blend and the sauce thickens to your desired consistency, it’s showtime! Carefully plate the chicken and drizzle any extra sauce over the top.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 178kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 14.2g22%
Saturated Fat 7.3g37%
Cholesterol 38mg13%
Sodium 449mg19%
Total Carbohydrate 9g3%
Sugars 2g
Protein 4g8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note
  • Don’t rush the garlic: Sauté it on medium heat and give it time to release its flavors.
  • Rest the chicken: After cooking, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy.
  • Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs greatly enhance the flavor.
  • Adjust the creaminess: For a lighter version, you can substitute half the cream with milk.
  • Try it with different proteins: While the classic is chicken, pork or shrimp can also be delicious alternatives.