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Chicken Breasts in Creamy Garlic Sauce – Tender, Juicy & Restaurant-Worthy!

If there’s one dish that feels fancy but is secretly simple, it’s this: Chicken Breasts in Creamy Garlic Sauce. Tender pan-seared chicken simmers in a velvety, garlicky cream sauce that’s loaded with flavor and comes together in less than 30 minutes. It’s cozy, comforting, and absolutely irresistible. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners but elegant enough for guests. The creamy garlic sauce wraps each bite of juicy chicken in luxurious flavor, and it pairs effortlessly with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or roasted veggies. Whether you're craving something hearty yet simple or looking to impress with minimal effort, this dish delivers on every level.
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Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🍗 Protein
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
🧄 Vegetables & Aromatics
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley or thyme chopped (for garnish)
🧂 Pantry & Seasonings
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder to season chicken
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 tsp paprika adds color & depth
🧈 Dairy & Fats
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
🍋 Optional
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice for a hint of acidity and brightness
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth for thinning the sauce slightly

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Paper towels (to pat chicken dry)

Method
 

Step 1. Prepare the Chicken
  1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
  2. Season both sides with:
  3. Garlic powder
  4. Paprika
  5. Salt and pepper
  6. Let sit while your pan heats up.
Step 2. Sear the Chicken
  1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).
  3. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm.
Step 3. Sauté Garlic
  1. Reduce heat to medium.
  2. Add 1 tbsp butter to the same skillet.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, just until fragrant (do not let it brown).
Step 4. Make the Creamy Sauce
  1. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth (if using). Stir well.
  2. Add parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and sauce thickens slightly.
  3. Optional: add lemon juice for brightness.
  4. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5. Combine & Simmer
  1. Return chicken to the skillet. Spoon sauce over each piece.
  2. Cover and simmer on low for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 6. Garnish & Serve
  1. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or thyme.
  2. Serve hot with your choice of side dishes.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
Freeze chicken and sauce together for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Stovetop: Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or broth.
Microwave: Cover and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between.
Avoid boiling the sauce—it can separate.
🥄 Variations
Mushroom Garlic Chicken: Add 1 cup sliced mushrooms when sautéing garlic.
Spinach Garlic Chicken: Stir in 2 cups baby spinach in the last 2 minutes of simmering.
Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Wine-Infused: Deglaze the pan with white wine before adding cream.
Cheesy Upgrade: Add shredded mozzarella or gouda for an extra creamy twist.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Boneless thighs work great and stay juicy—just adjust cooking time slightly.
2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
Use half-and-half or whole milk + 1 tsp flour to help thicken.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut cream and a dairy-free parmesan-style cheese.
4. How do I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer longer or add 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with water.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients (especially broth and cheese) are certified gluten-free.
6. What sides pair well with garlic cream chicken?
Mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
7. Can I add vegetables to the pan?
Yes—mushrooms, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even zucchini are great add-ins.
8. Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Make the full dish and reheat gently before serving.
9. Will the sauce curdle?
Not if heated gently. Avoid boiling once the cream is added.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Definitely. Use a larger pan and make sure chicken isn’t overcrowded.
🏁 Conclusion
This Chicken Breasts in Creamy Garlic Sauce recipe is the epitome of simple meets sensational. It’s rich, indulgent, and deeply satisfying—without requiring fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
Whether served over pasta for a decadent dinner or paired with veggies for a lighter meal, this dish brings the kind of comfort food flavor that makes people ask for seconds.