If you’re searching for a comforting, restaurant-quality meal that’s easy enough for weeknights, this creamy garlic chicken recipe is exactly what you need. Tender, golden-seared chicken breasts are simmered in a rich garlic parmesan cream sauce that’s silky, savory, and deeply satisfying.

This garlic chicken recipe combines simple ingredients with bold flavors to create an easy chicken dinner recipe that feels elegant but takes less than 40 minutes from start to finish. Whether served over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, this creamy chicken skillet dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Why This Creamy Garlic Chicken Is So Popular

There’s something irresistible about garlic and cream together. The rich sauce clings to the chicken, locking in moisture while delivering layers of flavor.

Here’s why this garlic parmesan chicken stands out:

One-pan recipe for easy cleanup
Perfect balance of creamy and savory
Uses simple pantry staples
Great for meal prep
Pairs with many side dishes

This easy chicken dinner recipe is ideal for busy evenings when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Instructions

Season the Chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Garlic Base
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Deglaze the Pan
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This step adds deep flavor to your creamy chicken skillet sauce.
Create the Cream Sauce
Stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Allow the sauce to simmer for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add Parmesan Cheese
Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
Return Chicken to Skillet
Place the seared chicken back into the skillet. Spoon sauce over the top and simmer for 8–10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite side dish.

Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Chicken

Use Fresh Garlic

Freshly minced garlic provides stronger flavor compared to pre-minced varieties.

Don’t Overcook

Chicken breasts can dry out quickly. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.

Fresh Parmesan Is Key

Grating your own Parmesan ensures better melting and richer flavor.

Adjust Sauce Thickness

If sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth. If too thin, simmer a few extra minutes.

Delicious Variations

This garlic chicken recipe is extremely adaptable.

Spinach Creamy Garlic Chicken

Add 1 cup fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrients and color.

Mushroom Garlic Chicken

Sauté sliced mushrooms after cooking the chicken for an earthy depth of flavor.

Spicy Garlic Chicken

Add red pepper flakes for a gentle heat that balances the creamy sauce.

Low-Carb Option

Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly meal.

What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken

This creamy chicken skillet pairs beautifully with:

Mashed potatoes
Steamed white rice
Buttered pasta
Garlic bread
Roasted vegetables
Fresh green salad

The rich garlic parmesan chicken sauce makes every side dish taste better.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months (sauce texture may slightly change).

Reheating: Warm gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed.

Nutritional Highlights

Chicken breast is lean and high in protein, helping support muscle maintenance and satiety. Garlic contains antioxidants and beneficial compounds that may support immune health.

While the cream and cheese add richness, moderate portions keep this easy chicken dinner recipe balanced and satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless skinless thighs work wonderfully and provide extra juiciness.

Can I substitute half-and-half for heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be slightly less rich and may be thinner.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to perfect creamy garlic chicken lies in layering flavors:

Searing locks in juices
Garlic infuses aromatic depth
Broth deglazes and adds savory notes
Cream and Parmesan create silky richness

Together, these steps create a garlic parmesan chicken dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant kitchen.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Chicken is the ultimate comfort food for anyone who loves rich sauces and tender meat. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, this easy chicken dinner recipe transforms everyday chicken into something extraordinary.

Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or even special occasions, this creamy chicken skillet recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.