How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken: A Comforting Delight

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If there’s one dish that never fails to impress, it’s Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken. Juicy chicken breasts smothered in a rich, buttery garlic sauce make for a meal that feels indulgent yet incredibly easy to make. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy family gatherings, or even a romantic meal for two. Best of all, you only need simple ingredients to create a dish that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant.

Let’s dive into this comforting recipe that will soon become a staple in your kitchen!

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What is Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken?

At its core, Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken combines tender chicken breasts with a velvety sauce made from butter, garlic, cream, and flavorful seasonings. This dish is beloved for its ability to turn basic ingredients into a luxurious, satisfying meal. It’s the perfect blend of richness from the butter and cream, and the bold, aromatic flavor of garlic.

Whether served over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, this recipe has an unbeatable versatility that makes it a favorite for families and food lovers alike.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Easy to Make: Simple steps and minimal prep work mean you can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes.
✔️ Rich and Flavorful: The creamy garlic butter sauce is perfectly seasoned and complements the chicken beautifully.
✔️ Versatile: Serve it with pasta, rice, veggies, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
✔️ Budget-Friendly: You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry!
✔️ Restaurant-Quality at Home: Impress your family or guests without breaking the bank.

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Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken

To achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and mild smokiness)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter, for cooking)

For the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Grated Parmesan cheese

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How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
2. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Stir in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze and release all the flavorful bits.
4. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
5. Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them.
2. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to let the chicken absorb the flavors.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese.

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Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for juicy results.
• Fresh Garlic is Key: Minced fresh garlic provides the best flavor—avoid pre-minced jarred garlic if possible.
• Customize the Sauce: Add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
• Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce isn’t thick enough, simmer it for a few extra minutes or whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

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What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken

Pair this dish with sides that complement its creamy richness. Here are some ideas:

• Pasta: Serve the chicken and sauce over fettuccine or penne for a comforting pasta dish.
• Rice: Fluffy white rice or buttery mashed potatoes soak up the sauce beautifully.
• Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted asparagus provide a fresh contrast.
• Bread: Crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop of the sauce.

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Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

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FAQs About Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well in this recipe and remain juicy during cooking.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free butter for a creamy, dairy-free alternative.

3. What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

If the sauce isn’t thick enough, whisk in a slurry of 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water.

4. Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes! This dish is naturally low-carb and fits well into a keto diet.

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Conclusion: A Dish You’ll Want to Make Again and Again

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken is a dish that checks all the boxes—easy, flavorful, and versatile. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family meal or a show-stopping dinner for guests, this recipe delivers every time. The buttery garlic sauce paired with tender chicken is so good, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again.

So, grab your skillet and get cooking—your taste buds are in for a treat! Don’t forget to share your creations in the comments or try some of our other easy dinner recipes.