If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you absolutely have to try this Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish where tender chicken breasts get coated in a luscious, buttery garlic sauce that’s rich, zesty, and downright irresistible. The balance of garlic, cream, and a touch of lemon juice takes every bite to the next level. Whether you’re cooking a weeknight dinner or want to impress guests without fuss, this recipe is a total winner in both comfort and flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic in this Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe comes from a handful of ingredients that’re easy to find but essential for building those deep, rich flavors and creamy textures. Each component plays its role— from the crispy coating on the chicken to the smooth, garlicky sauce that ties everything together beautifully.
- 1/4 cup flour: Helps create a light, crispy coating on the chicken for that perfect sear.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the chicken evenly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth to the seasoning.
- 2 large chicken breasts: The star of the dish, they get tender and juicy when cooked just right.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided): Used for searing the chicken and sautéing garlic, bringing a lovely richness.
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 5-6 cloves): Gives the dish that unmistakable creamy garlic flavor you’ll love.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps build the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to that silky smooth, indulgent sauce that clings perfectly to the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor and rounds out the sauce.
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice: Brightens the sauce with a fresh zing to balance all the richness.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Coating
Start by whisking the flour, salt, and black pepper together in a medium bowl. This simple mix is your secret weapon for getting a nice, crispy crust on the chicken that locks in all the juicy flavor.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to make four thinner pieces. This helps the chicken cook faster and more evenly. Dredge each piece in your flour mixture until fully coated. The flour mixture will give the chicken its golden-brown, slightly crunchy exterior.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Place the chicken pieces in the hot oil and cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until they develop a gorgeous golden crust. This step seals in the juices, making each bite tender and flavorful. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside to rest.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pan, then toss in your minced garlic. Sauté it briefly—just 30 to 60 seconds—until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly browned. Be careful not to let it burn because that can turn the sauce bitter.
Step 5: Build the Sauce
Pour in your chicken broth and heavy cream, followed by the garlic powder. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil and then let it bubble away for 7 to 8 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening and reducing by more than half, resulting in a velvety consistency that’s perfect for coating the chicken.
Step 6: Finish and Warm Through
Stir in the lemon juice carefully to add a fresh pop of brightness to your creamy garlic sauce. Return the chicken breasts to the pan and cook them just until heated through, about 1 to 2 minutes. Now your Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe is ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches such as freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan add a lovely visual contrast and an extra layer of flavor. These garnishes make the dish feel special and inviting, encouraging everyone to dive right in.
Side Dishes
This rich and creamy chicken pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery pasta are fantastic choices that soak up the luscious garlic sauce perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe over a bed of fluffy rice pilaf or nestled alongside roasted potatoes and colorful veggies on a large platter. The sauce looks stunning draped over the chicken, making every plate look like it belongs at a fancy dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any left, store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days, making it great for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This dish freezes nicely, too! Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and keep for up to two months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the cream sauce from breaking. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream can help restore the sauce’s silky texture for an almost freshly made taste.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe. They tend to be juicier and will add even more flavor, though you might want to adjust cooking times just slightly.
Is this sauce suitable for freezing?
Yes, the creamy garlic sauce freezes well. Just know that sometimes cream-based sauces can separate a bit when frozen and reheated, so gentle reheating and stirring often helps bring it back to silky perfection.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap the heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream, though this will change the flavor slightly. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if you want to make it completely dairy-free and vegetarian-friendly.
How can I make the garlic flavor more intense?
If you want to punch up the garlic flavor, add an extra clove or two of minced garlic when sautéing, or sprinkle some roasted garlic into the sauce for a sweeter, mellow garlic note.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe is mild and creamy, focused on mellow garlic and lemon flavors rather than heat. You can always add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a little kick!
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe has become one of my favorite go-to dinners because it’s simple, quick, and so deeply comforting. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel cozy at home but impressive enough to serve guests with zero stress. I’m confident once you try it, it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen, too. So grab your ingredients and get ready for some serious deliciousness!
Print
Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This creamy garlic chicken recipe features tender pan-seared chicken breasts coated in a flavorful garlic-infused creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick and comforting dinner, it combines simple ingredients like garlic, heavy cream, and lemon juice for a rich and zesty finish.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large chicken breasts (cut into 4 thinner pieces)
Sauce and Cooking
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 5–6 cloves)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the coating: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Coat the chicken: Cut each chicken breast in half to create 4 thinner pieces. Transfer them to the bowl with the flour mixture and toss to coat each piece evenly on all sides.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the garlic: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic to the pan. Cook for 30-60 seconds, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and slightly browned but not burnt.
- Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and sprinkle in the garlic powder. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and let it cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and reduces by about 60%.
- Finish the dish: Stir in the lemon juice to add brightness to the sauce, then return the cooked chicken pieces to the pan. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, just long enough to warm the chicken through and coat it in the creamy garlic sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Make sure not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter quickly.
- Serve this dish over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a complete meal.
- To ensure even cooking, pound chicken breasts to an even thickness before cutting if needed.
