Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts is a delectable dish that combines tender, pan-seared chicken with a rich, flavorful garlic-infused cream sauce. This recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, offering a comforting meal that’s sure to impress.Budget Bytes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and cream creates a luxurious sauce that enhances the chicken’s natural flavors.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish can be prepared in under an hour.
Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides, including pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables, making it adaptable to different preferences.
Comfort Food: The creamy sauce and tender chicken provide a satisfying and comforting meal.
Impressive Presentation: Despite its simplicity, this dish looks and tastes like a gourmet meal, perfect for entertaining guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Let them simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serve: Plate the chicken breasts and spoon the creamy garlic sauce over the top.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutesSalt & Lavender
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
Use Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with pork chops or shrimp for a different take on the dish.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Herb Infusion: Include fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley to enhance the aromatic profile.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Adjust cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.

What can I serve with creamy garlic chicken?

This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and reheat it before serving.

How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Simmer the sauce longer to reduce it, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative and use a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, adding a splash of white wine can enhance the flavor.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Avoid boiling the sauce vigorously; keep it at a gentle simmer.

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Freshly minced garlic is recommended for the best flavor, but pre-minced can be used in a pinch.

What type of Parmesan cheese is best?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and offers superior flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts

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Author: Olivia
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 2–4 servings

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Description

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts recipe features juicy, pan-seared chicken smothered in a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a quick and comforting weeknight dinner, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or veggies.

Instructions

Slice chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets (optional for quicker cooking).
Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds.
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
Return chicken to the pan and coat with the sauce. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes.