Minimal Ingredient Creamy Garlic Chicken

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Sometimes, simplicity is the key to unlocking the most satisfying flavors. That’s exactly what I discovered with this Minimal Ingredient Creamy Garlic Chicken. With just a handful of kitchen staples and one skillet, this recipe brings golden, pan-seared chicken together with a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce—comfort food at its finest, without any unnecessary fuss.

What I love most about this dish is how quickly it comes together. Whether it’s a hectic weekday or you’re craving something special on a lazy evening, this recipe never fails. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the seared chicken, and the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter? It’s what dinner dreams are made of.

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Why You’ll Love This Minimal Ingredient Creamy Garlic Chicken

• Only a Few Ingredients: Pantry staples do all the heavy lifting here.
• Quick Cooking Time: On the table in about 30 minutes.
• Flavor-Packed: Rich, garlicky, and creamy—each bite is a comfort hug.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes, more joy.
• Pairs With Anything: Rice, pasta, potatoes—you name it.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For this Minimal Ingredient Creamy Garlic Chicken, I usually go with boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook quickly and evenly. If you prefer darker meat, boneless chicken thighs work beautifully too—they’re juicier and a bit more forgiving if slightly overcooked. The key is to pound the chicken to an even thickness so it sears perfectly and cooks through without drying out.

If you’re using frozen chicken, just make sure it’s fully thawed before you start. Moisture from frozen meat can mess with that perfect sear and dilute the creamy sauce.

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Options for Substitutions

This recipe is all about flexibility. You can easily swap ingredients without losing the essence of the dish.

• Chicken: Swap for boneless thighs, turkey cutlets, or even tofu for a vegetarian spin.
• Cream: Use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
• Garlic: Fresh is best, but pre-minced or garlic paste can save time.
• Butter: Olive oil works if you’re keeping it lighter.
• Parsley: Optional for garnish, or swap with fresh thyme or chives.

With these substitutions, you can make this dish fit your pantry and preferences.

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Ingredients for This Minimal Ingredient Creamy Garlic Chicken

Every ingredient in this recipe earns its place—there’s no fluff here, just bold flavor with minimal effort.

• Chicken Breasts
  The star of the show. Tender, juicy, and perfect for searing. They soak up the creamy garlic sauce beautifully.
• Garlic Cloves
  The heart of the flavor. Fresh garlic brings that irresistible aroma and depth, turning this into a restaurant-worthy meal.
• Heavy Cream
  This is what gives the sauce its rich, velvety texture. It clings to the chicken and adds luxurious body.
• Butter
  For sautéing the garlic and giving the dish a rich, golden base. It adds a layer of flavor that oil alone can’t match.
• Salt and Pepper
  Simple seasoning, essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce.
• Olive Oil
  Used to sear the chicken to a golden-brown crisp without burning the butter.
• Fresh Parsley
  Totally optional, but it brightens up the final plate with a pop of color and a touch of freshness.

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Step 1: Season and Prep the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this helps them sear better. Generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If your chicken breasts are thick, consider slicing them in half or pounding them to an even thickness for quicker, more even cooking.

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Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a mix of olive oil and a touch of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken. Sear for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate—don’t worry about it cooling, it’ll finish in the sauce later.

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Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Lower the heat to medium. In the same pan, add a bit more butter if needed, then toss in the minced garlic. Stir frequently for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant—don’t let it brown, or it’ll taste bitter.

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Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, scraping up all the flavorful brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Add a pinch more salt and pepper to taste.

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Step 5: Return the Chicken to the Pan

Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat. Simmer for another 3–5 minutes until everything is heated through and the flavors have melded.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if you’re using it. Serve the chicken with plenty of that creamy garlic sauce spooned over the top.

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How Long to Cook the Minimal Ingredient Creamy Garlic Chicken

The beauty of this recipe is how quickly it comes together. From start to finish, you’re looking at about 25 to 30 minutes total.

• Searing the chicken: 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
• Simmering in sauce: 3–5 minutes, just enough for the flavors to come together and heat the chicken through.

Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. A quick check with a meat thermometer guarantees juicy, properly cooked chicken every time.

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Tips for Perfect Minimal Ingredient Creamy Garlic Chicken

• Pound your chicken: It helps the breasts cook evenly and stay juicy.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give the chicken space to brown. Cook in batches if needed.
• Use fresh garlic: The flavor is more vibrant and aromatic compared to jarred varieties.
• Deglaze the pan: Scrape up those browned bits when you add the cream—this adds major depth to your sauce.
• Simmer, don’t boil: Keep the cream at a gentle simmer so it thickens without separating.
• Let it rest: After cooking, give the chicken a minute to settle in the sauce—it helps the flavors absorb better.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even the simplest recipes can go sideways without a little care. Here’s what to avoid when making Minimal Ingredient Creamy Garlic Chicken:

• Overcooking the chicken: This leads to dry, tough meat. Use a meat thermometer and aim for 165°F (75°C).
• Browning the garlic: Garlic burns quickly and turns bitter. Keep the heat moderate and stir constantly.
• Using cold chicken straight from the fridge: Let it sit out for 10–15 minutes before cooking so it sears evenly.
• Skipping the fond (browned bits): That golden layer on the pan is flavor gold. Be sure to scrape it into the sauce.
• Adding cream too soon: If the pan is too hot, cream can curdle. Lower the heat before adding.
• Underseasoning: With so few ingredients, seasoning is everything. Taste and adjust as you go.
• Using low-fat cream: This won’t give you the same richness and can split when heated.
• Crowding the skillet: This causes steaming instead of searing. Use a large enough pan.

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What to Serve With Minimal Ingredient Creamy Garlic Chicken?

The creamy garlic sauce makes this dish a perfect partner to so many sides. Whether you’re keeping it cozy or going all out, here are some winning combinations.

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy on creamy—because why not? The sauce makes an epic gravy.

Buttered Pasta

Simple noodles or fettuccine let the chicken and sauce shine.

Steamed Rice

A blank canvas that soaks up all that garlicky goodness.

Crusty Bread

Perfect for mopping up every last drop of the sauce.

Steamed Broccoli

A crisp, healthy contrast to the rich, creamy chicken.

Mixed Green Salad

Adds freshness and crunch to balance the creaminess.

Roasted Corn

Slightly sweet and buttery, it plays well with the garlic flavor.

Cucumber Yogurt Salad

Cool, tangy, and refreshing—great if you’re going heavy on the richness.

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Storage Instructions

Leftovers of this Minimal Ingredient Creamy Garlic Chicken are a dream. The flavors actually deepen after a night in the fridge, making it just as delicious the next day.

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: Not ideal. Cream-based sauces tend to separate after thawing, so for best quality, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.

If you plan to meal prep, consider storing the chicken and sauce separately to maintain the texture when reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general idea of what one serving provides (based on a recipe serving four):

• Calories: ~410
• Protein: ~32g
• Carbohydrates: ~4g
• Fat: ~30g
• Saturated Fat: ~16g
• Sugar: ~1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: ~320mg

Note: These values can vary depending on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to ensure my chicken is juicy?

Pound the chicken to an even thickness before cooking, and avoid overcooking. A meat thermometer is your best friend—aim for 165°F (75°C).

Can I use pre-minced garlic from a jar?

Yes, in a pinch. However, fresh garlic delivers a sharper, more aromatic flavor that really makes this dish pop.

Will coconut cream work as a dairy-free alternative?

Definitely! It changes the flavor slightly, giving it a tropical twist, but it’s still rich and delicious.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead, but store them separately. Reheat gently and combine just before serving for best texture and flavor.

How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Let it simmer uncovered a bit longer, or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a splash of cold water.

What’s the best pan to use for this recipe?

A large stainless steel or cast iron skillet is ideal. It allows the chicken to brown beautifully and helps build that flavorful fond for the sauce.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not at all. It’s creamy and garlicky but mild. Want heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just make sure not to overcrowd the pan—cook the chicken in batches if needed so it still sears properly.

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Conclusion

This Minimal Ingredient Creamy Garlic Chicken proves that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With just a few pantry staples and about half an hour, you can create a rich, flavorful dish that feels indulgent but is effortlessly simple. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or just need a quick win after a long day—this recipe is your new go-to. One bite and you’ll see why it’s worth keeping in your back pocket.

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