Creamy Garlic Chicken | Easy Dinner Recipe in 30 Minutes
Creamy Garlic Chicken is the kind of dish that instantly makes a meal feel special. The aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil fills the kitchen while juicy chicken breasts cook to golden perfection. A rich Parmesan cream sauce ties everything together, turning a simple skillet dinner into one of those delicious simple recipes you will keep making again and again. If you are searching for easy creamy garlic chicken that looks impressive but takes less than 30 minutes, this is the recipe for you.

Creamy Garlic Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for 6–8 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Lower heat to medium and add minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and scrape up browned bits. Simmer 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan. Simmer 3–5 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Return chicken to skillet and spoon sauce over. Cook 1–2 minutes to heat through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Nutrition
Notes
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Why you will love this creamy garlic chicken dinner
This creamy garlic chicken dinner has everything you want in comfort food. Juicy seared chicken rests in a velvety garlic cream sauce that feels indulgent yet approachable. It is a go to recipe for busy nights when you want something satisfying without spending hours cooking. Whether you pair it with pasta, rice, or mashed potato with chicken, it works beautifully for family dinners or good ideas for lunch the next day.
Highlights:
- Quick creamy garlic chicken recipe ready in 30 minutes
- Rich sauce made with fresh garlic and Parmesan cheese
- Versatile enough to pair with many sides
- Perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions
Ingredients for creamy garlic chicken
Here is what you need for this creamy garlic chicken recipe:
Ingredient | Measurement | Notes and Substitutions |
Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Avocado oil works too |
Chicken breasts | 4 boneless skinless | Chicken thighs for extra juiciness |
Salt and black pepper | To taste | Season generously |
Chicken broth | 1/2 cup | Vegetable broth if preferred |
Heavy cream | 1/2 cup | Half and half for lighter option |
Garlic | 4 to 6 cloves minced | Adjust amount to taste |
Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup grated | Fresh Parmesan melts best |
Fresh parsley | 1/4 cup chopped | Basil or chives for variation |
How to make creamy garlic chicken step by step
If you want to know how to make creamy garlic chicken at home without fuss, follow these simple steps:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for 6 to 8 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and scrape up browned bits from the skillet. Let simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Return chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Heat through for another 1 to 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot.
This method gives you easy creamy garlic chicken that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
How to serve creamy garlic chicken
The best part about creamy garlic chicken is how versatile it is. Serve it over pasta for a creamy Italian style dinner. Add a side of roasted vegetables and chicken mash for a comforting plate. Pair it with a crisp salad for lighter meals or spoon it over rice for a wholesome dinner.
Seasonal serving ideas include cherry tomatoes and basil for summer freshness, roasted squash in the fall, or mashed potato with chicken for winter holidays.
Secrets for perfect creamy garlic chicken
- Cook garlic gently until fragrant so it does not burn.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smooth sauce.
- Rest the chicken briefly before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Adjust the thickness of the sauce with broth if needed.
Mistakes to avoid
- Overcooking the chicken which makes it dry
- Adding garlic too early which can cause bitterness
- Using low fat cream which prevents the sauce from thickening
- Forgetting to season the sauce generously
Storage and reheating instructions
Storage Method | Instructions | Reheating Tips |
Refrigerator | Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days | Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream |
Freezer | Freeze for up to 2 months with sauce included | Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop |
This makes creamy garlic chicken a great choice for meal prep and good ideas for lunch later in the week.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Chicken is one of those delicious simple recipes that belongs in every kitchen. It is fast, flavorful, and versatile enough to be served as both dinner and meal prep. Whether you enjoy it with pasta, rice, or mashed potato with chicken, this easy creamy garlic chicken will become a family favorite. Save this creamy garlic chicken recipe for your weekly rotation and share it with friends who love comfort food at its best.