Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe That’s Ready in 30 Minutes (Easy One-Pan Dinner)

If you’re looking for a comforting, restaurant-quality dinner that feels fancy but is secretly easy, this Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe is about to become your new favorite. Tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, garlicky cream sauce come together in one pan and in under 30 minutes. It’s the kind of meal that works just as well for a busy weeknight as it does for a cozy weekend dinner, and it pairs beautifully with everything from mashed potatoes to pasta or steamed veggies.

Below, you’ll find everything you need to make this recipe flawlessly the first time, plus tips, variations, and answers to the most common questions.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken

This recipe checks all the boxes. It’s quick, comforting, and incredibly flavorful without requiring complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients. The sauce is creamy without being heavy, the garlic adds depth without overpowering, and the chicken stays juicy and tender. It’s also versatile, making it easy to customize based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Best of all, it’s a one-pan recipe, which means fewer dishes and less cleanup.

Serving Size and Time Breakdown

Serving Size: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

This recipe is perfect for a family dinner but can easily be doubled if you’re cooking for guests or meal prepping for the week.

Kitchen Equipment Required

You don’t need anything fancy to make this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or spatula

A heavy-bottomed skillet works best to evenly cook the chicken and prevent the sauce from burning.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley or basil, chopped

These simple ingredients come together to create a sauce that tastes like it simmered all day.

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How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds extra flavor to the sauce.
5. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Simmer for another 3 to 5 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Chicken

For the juiciest chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan. If your skillet is small, cook the chicken in batches. Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before returning it to the sauce also helps lock in moisture. Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded cheese for a smoother sauce. If the sauce thickens too much, simply add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is cooking the garlic too long, which can make it bitter. Garlic only needs about 30 seconds in the pan. Another issue is using high heat once the cream is added. Keep the heat at medium or lower to prevent the sauce from separating. Lastly, avoid skipping the step of scraping the pan after adding the broth. Those browned bits are packed with flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly flexible. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly thinner. Boneless chicken thighs work just as well and add even more flavor. If you want a low-carb or keto-friendly option, serve this over cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles. You can also add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra texture and flavor.

How to Store and Meal Prep

Store leftover creamy garlic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce. This dish is great for meal prep, but it’s best enjoyed fresh since cream-based sauces can thicken when chilled.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve creamy garlic chicken over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up every drop of sauce. For a lighter plate, pair it with roasted asparagus, green beans, or a crisp side salad. Sprinkle fresh herbs or extra Parmesan on top just before serving to make it look restaurant-worthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best made fresh. If making ahead, reheat gently and add liquid as needed to restore the sauce.

Can I use milk instead of cream?
Milk can be used, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Whole milk works better than low-fat options.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, this creamy garlic chicken is naturally gluten-free.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F, and the juices should run clear.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create incredible flavor. It’s fast, comforting, and versatile enough to fit into any meal plan. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just yourself, this dish delivers big on taste with minimal effort. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a regular in your dinner rotation.