Delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipes: Pasta, Crockpot, Keto, and Thigh Variations

Creamy garlic chicken is a rich, indulgent dish that combines tender chicken with a luscious, velvety garlic cream sauce. This comfort food is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or when you want something that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The creamy garlic sauce infuses each bite with deep flavor, while the chicken remains juicy and perfectly cooked. Whether served with rice, pasta, or vegetables, creamy garlic chicken is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

In this article, we will explore a variety of creamy garlic chicken recipes, each with its unique twist. Whether you prefer a classic garlic chicken or a version with additional flavors like herbs, cheese, or spinach, there’s a recipe for every taste. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious, flavorful dish!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

To make your creamy garlic chicken recipes easier, ensure you have the following equipment ready:

• Large Skillet or Pan: A heavy-bottomed skillet works best for cooking the chicken and making the creamy sauce.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping garlic, herbs, and any vegetables or additional ingredients.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: For precise measurements of broth, cream, and spices.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the sauce and flipping the chicken without damaging the pan.
• Tongs: To easily flip and remove the chicken from the skillet.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken

The basic ingredients for creamy garlic chicken are simple, yet they create a dish bursting with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need for a classic version:

For the basic creamy garlic chicken recipe:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Chicken breasts are leaner, while thighs are juicier. Choose according to your preference.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sear the chicken and give it a crispy outer texture.
• 5-6 garlic cloves: Minced or finely chopped for maximum flavor. Garlic is the star of this dish!
• 1 cup heavy cream: This will create the rich, creamy base for the sauce.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds depth to the sauce and helps it simmer.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For extra creaminess and a slightly nutty flavor.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness to the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: For seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme adds a savory touch.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken?

Making creamy garlic chicken is a quick and easy process. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts (or thighs) to the skillet. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add the butter and allow it to melt. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Once the garlic is sautéed, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let the broth cook down slightly for about 2 minutes. Then, add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce. Continue simmering for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. You can add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Return the Chicken to the Pan

Once the sauce is ready, return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top of each piece. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors and stay moist. This step ensures the chicken is fully coated in the creamy garlic sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thickened, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the creamy garlic chicken with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve with your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, rice, or a side salad.

Variations of Creamy Garlic Chicken

While the basic creamy garlic chicken recipe is delicious on its own, there are several ways to elevate or change it up to suit different tastes. Here are some variations you can try:

1. Creamy Garlic Chicken with Spinach

For a vegetable-packed version, add fresh spinach to the creamy garlic sauce. Simply stir in a handful of spinach after adding the cream and cheese, letting it wilt down into the sauce. This variation adds a boost of vitamins and a pop of color to your dish.

2. Creamy Garlic Chicken with Mushrooms

If you love mushrooms, they’re a perfect complement to the creamy garlic sauce. Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet after sautéing the garlic. Let them cook until tender, then proceed with making the sauce as usual. The mushrooms absorb the cream sauce and enhance the overall flavor.

3. Lemon Garlic Chicken

For a lighter, zesty version, add the juice of one lemon to the sauce just before serving. The bright citrus flavor balances out the richness of the cream, making this variation a refreshing twist on the classic recipe. You can also add lemon zest for an extra layer of flavor.

4. Creamy Garlic Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes bring a tangy, umami-rich flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pan when you add the garlic, and let them infuse their flavor into the sauce. This variation adds a Mediterranean flair to your creamy garlic chicken.

5. Spicy Creamy Garlic Chicken

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the garlic and butter before adding the cream. This version gives the dish a spicy kick without overpowering the delicate garlic flavor.

Cooking Notes

• Chicken Breasts vs. Chicken Thighs: Both chicken breasts and thighs work well in this recipe. Chicken breasts are leaner, while thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender. You can use bone-in or boneless pieces based on your preference.
• Make It Low-Carb: For a low-carb version, you can serve the creamy garlic chicken with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables instead of traditional side dishes like potatoes or pasta.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated. The sauce may thicken upon refrigeration, so simply add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy garlic chicken pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options:

• Pasta: Serve the creamy garlic chicken over spaghetti, fettuccine, or any other pasta of your choice. The creamy sauce makes the pasta extra rich and flavorful.
• Rice: White rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice work wonderfully as a base for this creamy dish.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect side to soak up the garlic sauce, making for a comforting meal.
• Steamed Vegetables: For a lighter, healthier option, serve your creamy garlic chicken with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.

Helpful Tips

• For Extra Creaminess: You can add a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce to make it even creamier. This will give the sauce a velvety texture.
• Adjust the Consistency: If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer. If it gets too thick, simply add a bit more chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be sure to cook the chicken until it’s just done, as overcooking can cause it to dry out. Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Chicken

• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic will provide the best flavor. Avoid using garlic powder or pre-minced garlic in a jar, as they won’t give the same depth of flavor.
• Let the Sauce Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken for a few minutes to intensify the flavor. The longer the sauce simmers, the richer it will taste.
• Rest the Chicken: After removing the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices inside the chicken.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

25-30 minutes

Total Time:

35-40 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 400-500 (depending on serving size)
• Protein: 35g
• Carbs: 8g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 600mg

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? Yes, you can substitute milk, but the sauce may not be as rich and creamy. For a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to thicken it up.

Can I use frozen chicken? Frozen chicken is not recommended for this recipe, as it can release too much moisture and affect the texture of the sauce. For best results, use fresh or thawed chicken.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free? To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative. Use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for the cheesy flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy garlic chicken is a simple yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner or special occasion. With its rich, flavorful sauce and tender chicken, it’s a meal that everyone will love. Whether you stick with the classic version or try one of the variations, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the creamy goodness and savor every bite!