Creamy Garlic Chicken with Herbs is a comforting and flavorful dish that transforms simple chicken breasts into an inviting homemade meal. The chicken is cooked until golden and then covered with a smooth sauce made from garlic, cream, broth, and aromatic herbs.
Ready in approximately 35 minutes, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners but elegant enough to serve on special occasions. Pair it with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 4 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 5 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and gently pound the thicker parts until each piece has an even thickness. This helps the chicken cook evenly and prevents the thinner sections from becoming dry.
Season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for approximately five minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of the chicken. Its internal temperature should reach 165°F, or 74°C. Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean plate and cover it loosely to keep it warm.
Reduce the heat and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the chopped garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly. The garlic should become fragrant without turning dark.
Pour in the chicken broth and gently scrape the bottom of the skillet to release the flavorful browned pieces. Allow the liquid to simmer for two minutes.
Add the heavy cream, Parmesan, oregano, and thyme. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Simmer over low heat for three to five minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken.
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some sauce over each piece and cook for another two minutes. Finish with fresh parsley and lemon juice.
Tips for a Smooth Sauce
Keep the heat low after adding the cream. Boiling the sauce too rapidly can affect its texture. Grating the Parmesan finely will also help it melt more evenly.
If the sauce becomes too thick, mix in a small amount of chicken broth. If it is too thin, allow it to simmer gently for a few additional minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken with mashed potatoes, white rice, pasta, or crusty bread to enjoy every bit of the sauce. Steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted asparagus make excellent side dishes.
For extra freshness, garnish the meal with additional parsley and a squeeze of lemon. Rich, aromatic, and simple to prepare, this creamy chicken recipe is a dependable option for a satisfying dinner.
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Linda Carter is a writer specializing in recipes and practical home cooking. With extensive experience helping readers prepare flavorful and accessible meals, Linda shares easy-to-follow recipes, helpful cooking tips, and creative ideas on our platform. Her goal is to make cooking simpler and more enjoyable, inspiring readers to create delicious dishes for everyday meals and special occasions.