Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts are here to rescue your weeknights with minimal effort and maximum flavor. If you’re tired of dry chicken or complicated recipes, this dish combines juicy boneless skinless chicken breasts with a luxurious garlic-infused cream sauce you’ll want to drizzle over everything. Whether you’re new to cooking or just short on time, this recipe nails simple chicken recipes territory—ready in 30 minutes, universally loved, and endlessly adaptable for dietary tweaks. Let’s turn ordinary chicken into a meal worthy of seconds (and thirds).
Nutritional Benefits
This dish delivers protein-packed fuel while keeping carbs low. Using broth and Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream lightens it up without skimping richness. Garlic adds immune-boosting allicin, while olive oil provides heart-healthy fats.
| Nutrition | Per Serving (1 chicken breast + sauce) |
|———————-|—————————————-|
| Calories | 310 |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Protein | 32g |
| Fat | 17g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 3g |
Ingredients & Substitutions
Here’s how each component works—and how to swap it for pantry staples or dietary needs:
| Ingredient | Role | Possible Substitutions |
|———————-|——————————-|————————————|
| Boneless chicken breasts | Protein base | Chicken thighs, turkey cutlets |
| Olive oil | Searing & flavor base | Avocado oil, butter |
| Garlic | Aromatic backbone | 1 tsp garlic powder (in a pinch) |
| Chicken broth | Sauce liquid & depth | Vegetable broth, white wine |
| Greek yogurt | Creaminess + tang | Heavy cream, coconut cream |
| Parmesan | Salty umami boost | Nutritional yeast (dairy-free) |
| Paprika | Warmth & color | Smoked paprika, cayenne for heat |
Equipment Needed
– Large skillet or cast-iron pan
– Tongs (to flip chicken safely)
– Whisk (for smoothing the sauce)
– Measuring cups/spoons
– Meat thermometer (optional but foolproof)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken: Pound breasts to ½” thickness for even cooking. Pat dry, then season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Sear to Perfection: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and 165°F internally. Transfer to a plate.
3. Build the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Sauté minced garlic 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in broth, scraping up browned bits—that’s flavor gold!
4. Creamy Finish: Whisk in Greek yogurt and parmesan until smooth. Simmer 2–3 minutes to thicken.
5. Bring It Together: Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over it. Garnish with parsley.
Pro Tip: For a weeknight chicken breast dinner ideas easy win, pair this with steamed broccoli or zucchini noodles.
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
– Sauce Too Thin? Simmer 1–2 minutes longer, or mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water and stir in.
– Chicken Dry? Brine breasts in saltwater for 20 minutes pre-cooking, or use a meat thermometer.
– Garlic Burning? Lower the heat before adding—garlic needs gentle cooking.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
– Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid curdling.
– Freezer: Freeze sauce separately for 2 months. Thaw overnight, then warm chicken in sauce.
– Prep Shortcut: Pre-mince garlic and measure spices the night before.
Conclusion
These Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts prove that decadence doesn’t require hours—just smart techniques and a handful of ingredients. It’s a simple chicken recipe that feels special enough for date night but fast enough for chaotic evenings. Leftovers? Toss them into pasta or salads for next-day magic. Craving more healthy chicken recipes? Try my [lemon-herb grilled chicken](https://loinzou.com/medicine-ball-tea/) next.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but thaw them first. Cooking frozen chicken leads to uneven searing and a watery sauce.
Is Greek yogurt better than heavy cream here?
It adds tang and protein, but heavy cream delivers richer texture. Choose based on dietary goals!
How do I prevent the sauce from splitting?
Avoid boiling after adding dairy. Keep heat at a gentle simmer.
Can I make this gluten-free?
It’s naturally gluten-free—just ensure your broth is certified GF.
What sides pair best?
Try mashed cauliflower, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
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