Description

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is a rich, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts (or thighs) cooked to golden perfection, then simmered in a luxurious garlic-infused cream sauce. It’s a quick and easy recipe perfect for weeknight dinners yet indulgent enough for special occasions. The garlic brings a savory, aromatic depth to the dish, while the cream adds a smooth, velvety texture. Best served with pasta, rice, or low-carb options like cauliflower rice, this recipe can be customized with various vegetables and seasonings to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden on each side and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing to a simmer. Add the thyme and reduce the sauce for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the chicken. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to reheat the chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Chicken Options: You can use either chicken breasts or boneless, skinless thighs. Thighs provide a richer, juicier flavor, but chicken breasts are leaner and cook faster.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for achieving the best flavor. Use at least 4-5 cloves, but feel free to add more if you’re a garlic lover. Be careful not to overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
Cream: Heavy cream is used to create a rich sauce. For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream, though the sauce may be slightly less thick and rich.
Parmesan (Optional): Parmesan cheese adds extra depth to the sauce and helps thicken it. If you prefer a cheesier sauce, add more Parmesan, or leave it out for a lighter version.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can elevate the flavor. You can also experiment with dried herbs or add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Vegetables: Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra cream or broth to revive the sauce’s texture.