Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe for Beginners

Cooking a flavorful, comforting meal after a long day doesn’t have to be complicated. One of my favorite go-to recipes is this creamy garlic chicken. It’s a dish that brings together tender, perfectly cooked chicken breasts and a rich, velvety garlic sauce— all on the table in less than 20 minutes. The first time I tried this recipe, I was blown away by how easy it was to prepare, and how much flavor packed into just a few ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this dish will become a new staple in your kitchen.

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Perfect for beginner cooks, this creamy garlic chicken is not only quick but also versatile. The combination of the aromatic garlic, creamy sauce, and subtle spices makes it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the ingredients are simple and the method is easy to follow, making it a perfect way to get started with cooking, without feeling overwhelmed.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Beginners

For those just starting to explore the kitchen, a dish like creamy garlic chicken is ideal. It’s a quick, forgiving recipe that requires little prep time and minimal cooking skills. The recipe features boneless, skinless chicken breasts—an easy-to-handle, lean protein that cooks quickly and is a great choice for beginners. The garlic sauce adds depth and richness, without needing any complex techniques. Plus, with a total cooking time of just 20 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time.

Ingredients and Preparation

Before you begin, it’s essential to gather all the ingredients. This recipe uses straightforward pantry staples, and even if you don’t have something on hand, it’s easy to find substitutions. Let’s take a closer look:

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These will be cut in half horizontally to make 4 thinner steaks, which cook faster and more evenly.
• 1 tsp sea salt flakes: A must for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the flavor.
• ¼ tsp cracked black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth.
• 1 tsp sweet paprika: This gives the chicken a mild smokiness and a pop of color.
• 1 tsp onion powder: A subtle but necessary addition for flavor.
• 1 tsp dried thyme: Fresh or dried herbs will elevate the overall taste.
• ¼ cup (35g) plain (all-purpose) flour: Used to coat the chicken and give it a slight crust as it cooks.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: A healthy fat to cook the chicken in.
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness to the dish.

For the Sauce:

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter: For cooking the garlic and adding creaminess to the sauce.
• 1 tbsp freshly minced garlic: This is the star of the sauce, giving it that distinct, irresistible flavor.
• ½ cup (125 ml) chicken stock: Adds moisture and a savory depth to the sauce.
• 300 ml (10 fl oz) thick (double/heavy) cream: The key ingredient for the luscious, creamy texture of the sauce.
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Provides a slight tang to balance the richness of the cream.
• ½ cup (50g) grated parmesan: A savory, umami-packed addition that enhances the sauce.
• Sea salt flakes and cracked black pepper, to taste.

To Serve:

• Mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or pasta: Choose one of these starches to complement the creamy sauce.
• Steamed greens: Something light like broccoli or spinach works great to balance the richness.
• 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley: For a fresh, colorful garnish.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens up the dish and adds freshness.

Ingredient Substitutes:

• Chicken Breasts: If you prefer beef, a thinly sliced beef steak (like flank or sirloin) can work in this recipe.
• Heavy Cream: You can substitute half-and-half or milk, though the sauce won’t be as rich.
• Chicken Stock: You can use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor, though chicken stock provides the best depth.
• Parmesan Cheese: Other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can be used, but parmesan adds the most flavor and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the cooking process!

1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning your chicken breasts. Sprinkle sea salt, cracked black pepper, sweet paprika, onion powder, and dried thyme over both sides of the chicken. Press the chicken into the flour so that all sides are evenly coated. This will create a light crust when cooked, giving the chicken a nice texture.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and just cooked through. The chicken should be white and firm to the touch, with no pink in the center. If you’re unsure, you can use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. Set the Chicken Aside: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate. This helps keep it tender and juicy while you make the sauce.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of butter for the sauce. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should only be lightly golden.
5. Add Chicken Stock: Pour in the chicken stock and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes, allowing it to reduce by at least half. This will concentrate the flavor.
6. Add the Cream and Dijon Mustard: Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Reduce the heat to medium and let the sauce simmer for another 2 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
7. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and season with sea salt and cracked black pepper to taste. The cheese will melt into the sauce, making it even creamier and more flavorful.
8. Return the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken back into the pan, spooning some sauce over the top. Let it heat through for 2–3 minutes.
9. Serve and Garnish: Serve the creamy garlic chicken with your choice of mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or pasta. Add a side of steamed greens, then top with freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Chicken Overcooking: If the chicken cooks too quickly or browns too much, reduce the heat to medium-low to ensure the inside cooks without burning the outside.
• Thickening the Sauce: If your sauce isn’t thickening, let it simmer for a few more minutes. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken stock or cream to loosen it up.
• Even Coating of Flour: Press the chicken firmly into the flour to make sure all sides are evenly coated. This helps create a crispy crust that adds texture to the dish.
• Cooking Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, so stir it constantly when adding it to the butter. If it burns, start over with fresh garlic to avoid bitterness.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy garlic chicken is rich and flavorful, so it pairs beautifully with simple sides that won’t overpower the dish. Consider serving it with:

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce drizzled over buttery mashed potatoes is an indulgent treat.
• Steamed Rice: Fluffy white rice absorbs the garlic sauce, making it a comforting and satisfying pairing.
• Pasta: For a heartier option, serve the chicken with spaghetti or fettuccine. The creamy sauce will coat the noodles perfectly.

For vegetables, steamed greens like broccoli, spinach, or green beans are light, fresh, and add color to the plate. You can also serve this dish with a simple side salad to balance the richness of the chicken.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. This dish also freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. To reheat, defrost overnight in the fridge and warm it up on the stovetop.

Conclusion

This creamy garlic chicken is the perfect dish for beginner cooks looking to impress without a lot of fuss. With a short cooking time, minimal ingredients, and simple steps, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a favorite. I encourage you to give it a try and share your experience in the comments below—whether it’s your first time cooking or your hundredth! Don’t forget to make it your own with your favorite sides or flavor adjustments. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious meal!