Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe: Easy 30-Min Comfort Meal

Name: Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe: Easy 30-Min Comfort Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil; 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth; 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream; 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Posted on November 1, 2025

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The sizzle of chicken hitting a hot skillet, the aroma of garlic and butter weaving through the air—this creamy garlic butter chicken recipe is the ultimate comfort food. It’s one of those dishes you’ll want to make on repeat. I first whipped this up on a cold, rainy evening when I needed something warm, cozy, and satisfying, and let me tell you, it was love at first bite. Perfectly seared chicken breasts smothered in a luscious garlic butter cream sauce—it’s a weeknight wonder that feels like a restaurant-quality meal.

What makes this recipe even better is how quick and simple it is to prepare. With a handful of pantry staples, you can have dinner on the table in just 30 minutes. Plus, it’s versatile! Pair it with pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes for a complete meal that’ll wow your family or guests. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your menu rotation. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Minimal Ingredients: You only need simple pantry staples and fresh chicken!
Rich and Comforting: The creamy garlic butter sauce is indulgent without being overly heavy.
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spice it up with chili flakes for a personal twist.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this dish—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

This creamy garlic butter chicken recipe stands out because it’s a perfect mix of indulgence and simplicity. The garlic butter sauce is so velvety and flavorful, you’ll want to drizzle it over everything. What makes this recipe even better is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re serving it at a cozy dinner or impressing friends at a casual gathering, it’s bound to be a hit. It’s not just food; it’s a hug in a bowl, a dish that makes you feel at home with every single bite.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses straightforward ingredients to create bold flavors and creamy textures. You probably already have most of these in your kitchen!

Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy cooking. (You could substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier cut.)
All-purpose flour: For dredging the chicken and creating a golden crust. (Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.)
Salt and pepper: To season the chicken and bring out its natural flavors.
Olive oil: For searing the chicken. You can swap this for avocado oil if desired.
Unsalted butter: The star of the sauce—rich and creamy without overpowering the other flavors.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves, minced for maximum flavor. (Don’t skimp—garlic is the hero here!)
Chicken broth: Adds depth and a savory base to the sauce.
Heavy cream: For that creamy, velvety finish. (Swap with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.)
Grated Parmesan cheese: Thickens the sauce and adds extra richness. (Use a good-quality Parmesan for the best results.)
Fresh parsley: Optional, but highly recommended for garnish—it adds a pop of color and freshness.

If you want to jazz things up, you can add a pinch of red chili flakes or swap the parsley for fresh basil. This recipe is forgiving, so feel free to get creative!

Equipment Needed

You don’t need any fancy kitchen tools to make this creamy garlic butter chicken recipe, but here’s what you’ll need:

Large skillet: A non-stick or cast iron skillet works best for evenly searing the chicken and making the sauce.
Tongs: Perfect for flipping the chicken without tearing the crust.
Whisk: To ensure a smooth and lump-free sauce.
Knife and cutting board: For mincing garlic and prepping other ingredients.
Measuring spoons and cups: Accuracy matters when making the sauce!

Don’t have a whisk? No worries—a fork works in a pinch. For the skillet, you can also use a stainless steel pan, but keep an eye on the heat to avoid sticking.

Preparation Method

Prepare the chicken: Season 2-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge them lightly in 1/2 cup (60 g) of all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess.
Heat the skillet: Add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, place the chicken breasts in the pan.
Sear the chicken: Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the garlic: Lower the heat slightly and add 2 tablespoons (30 g) of unsalted butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in 4 minced garlic cloves, cooking for 1 minute or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Make the sauce: Pour in 1 cup (240 ml) of chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to release all those delicious browned bits. Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1/2 cup (120 ml) of heavy cream. Whisk until smooth.
Add Parmesan cheese: Gradually sprinkle in 1/4 cup (25 g) of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
Return the chicken: Place the chicken back into the skillet, spoon the sauce over, and let it simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top and serve warm with your choice of sides, such as rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

And voilà! Your creamy garlic butter chicken is ready to impress.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tried-and-true tips to ensure your creamy garlic butter chicken turns out perfect:

Don’t rush the sear: Let the chicken cook undisturbed for the full 4-5 minutes per side. This creates a golden crust that locks in the juices.
Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic delivers the best flavor—jarred minced garlic just won’t be the same.
Low and slow for the sauce: Avoid high heat when making the cream sauce. Gentle simmering prevents the cream from splitting.
Taste and adjust seasoning: Before serving, give the sauce a taste and add more salt or Parmesan cheese if needed.
Make it ahead: The sauce can be made ahead and reheated gently on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve.

Pro tip: If you accidentally burn your garlic, start over! Burnt garlic can turn bitter and overpower the dish.

Variations & Adaptations

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some fun ways to mix it up:

Low-carb version: Skip the flour and dredge the chicken in almond flour or leave it plain. Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Add veggies: Toss in some spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and extra nutrients.
Spicy twist: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little kick.
Dairy-free option: Replace the butter with olive oil and use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
Herb swap: Basil or thyme can be used instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.

One time, I added a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for a tangy finish—it was a game-changer! Experiment with what you love to make this recipe your own.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Here’s how to make the most of your creamy garlic butter chicken:

Serving suggestions: Serve hot with pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed rice to soak up that delicious sauce. A side of roasted asparagus or a crisp green salad pairs beautifully.
Presentation tip: Sprinkle a touch of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan on top for a picture-perfect finish.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the chicken and sauce for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm leftovers over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

One tip? The flavors deepen overnight, making this dish even better the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This creamy garlic butter chicken is as comforting as it is nourishing. Here’s a quick look at its nutritional profile:

Protein-packed: Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein to fuel your day.
Rich in flavor: Garlic and butter provide anti-inflammatory properties and healthy fats.
Low-carb option: Skip the flour for a keto-friendly version that’s just as delicious.
Dietary considerations: This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you skip the flour or use a gluten-free alternative.

It’s hearty yet balanced, making it ideal for a comforting meal without overindulging.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying recipe that’s quick and easy, this creamy garlic butter chicken is it. It’s a family favorite in my home, and I hope it becomes yours too. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started, this dish is foolproof and delicious. And the best part? You can make it your own with endless variations.

I can’t wait to hear how you customize this recipe to suit your taste! Drop a comment below or share your version with me. Let’s keep the comfort food love going. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they may take slightly longer to cook.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap out the butter for olive oil and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. You can also use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

If your sauce feels too thin, add a little more Parmesan cheese or let it simmer for a few extra minutes to thicken naturally.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove and add a splash of chicken broth or cream to adjust the consistency.

What should I serve with creamy garlic butter chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. For a balanced meal, add a fresh green salad or roasted asparagus.

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