Description
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a rich, flavorful dish with tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy, garlicky sauce. This one-pan meal is savory, creamy, and aromatic, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Paired with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables, it’s sure to be a family favorite.
Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 tablespoon butter
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6 cloves garlic, minced
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½ cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup grated parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Prepare the chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Make the garlic sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant (but not burnt).
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Add broth and cream: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping the skillet to release any browned bits from the chicken. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
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Add seasonings: Stir in parmesan cheese, thyme, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
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Combine chicken and sauce: Return cooked chicken to the skillet and spoon some sauce over the top. Simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavors of the sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
Variations: Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.Substitutes: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier and more flavorful option.Make it dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives for a vegan option.Add white wine: For a more complex flavor, add a splash of white wine to the skillet after cooking the garlic and before adding the broth.