Creamy Garlic Chicken: A One-Pan Wonder for Dinner
Looking for a quick, satisfying, and flavorful dinner? This Creamy Garlic Chicken checks all the boxes. Juicy, golden-brown chicken breasts simmered in a rich, velvety garlic-Parmesan cream sauce make this dish a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this one-skillet recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort.
From the aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil to the creamy texture of the sauce, this recipe is as comforting as it is delicious. Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables to soak up every drop of the delectable sauce!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes for a no-fuss dinner.
- Rich and Creamy: The Parmesan garlic sauce is indulgent and flavorful.
- One-Pan Recipe: Fewer dishes, more flavor!
- Versatile: Pairs well with pasta, rice, or veggies for a complete meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create thinner, evenly sized pieces.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper, then lightly dredge in flour, shaking off any excess.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce
- In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for added flavor. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the pieces to coat them thoroughly.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Chef’s Tips
- Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings out the best flavor for the sauce.
- Customize the Protein: Swap chicken for pork chops or shrimp for a tasty variation.
Serving Suggestions
- Over Pasta: Toss the sauce with linguine or fettuccine for a creamy pasta dish.
- With Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted asparagus.
- Over Rice: The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with fluffy white or wild rice.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Garlic Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
- Mushroom Lovers: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy addition.
- Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly option.