Picture this: you’re stepping into your kitchen after a long day, and the delightful scents of garlic and savory herbs fill the air. It’s that magical moment when you realize you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish in just 20 minutes. This 20-Minute Creamy Garlic Chicken is not only a feast for the senses, but it also meets the demands of your busy schedule, requiring minimal cleanup.
With tender chicken enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce made from garlic, yogurt, and a splash of white wine, this dish effortlessly transforms a simple weeknight dinner into something special. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to whatever you have on hand—be it veggies crying for a spotlight or alternative proteins.
So gather your ingredients and prepare for a quick culinary adventure that promises big flavor with little fuss—because enjoying homemade food shouldn’t feel like a chore!
Why is Creamy Garlic Chicken a must-try?
Deliciously Quick: With only 20 minutes needed, this recipe is your go-to for a last-minute dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup as everything cooks beautifully in one skillet. This dish fits seamlessly into your busy lifestyle.
Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand—this recipe adapts to your kitchen’s inventory.
Restaurant-Quality Taste: Elevate your weeknight meals with rich, creamy sauce that rivals your favorite restaurant dishes, but made right at home.
Perfect Comfort Food: The combination of creamy sauce and tender chicken hugs your taste buds, making every bite a warm embrace.
Ready to try more recipes? Don’t miss out on my easy skillet chicken collection for inspiring cooking ideas!
Creamy Garlic Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs (20 oz / 570g) – The main protein, skin-on and deboned for juicy, crispy perfection. Substitute with boneless skinless chicken breasts if preferred.
For the Cooking Base
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – Essential for frying the chicken and sautéing the garlic; use another oil for a flavor twist.
• Garlic (15-20 cloves) – Provides aromatic depth and flavor; always opt for fresh over pre-minced for the best taste.
• Chicken Broth (1/2 cup) – Adds moisture and richness to the sauce; vegetable broth works well for a lighter option.
• White Wine (1/3 cup) – Boosts acidity and flavor in the sauce; additional broth can substitute for a non-alcoholic option.
For the Creamy Sauce
• Plain Yogurt (1/4 cup) – Creates a velvety texture; use whipping cream if yogurt isn’t available.
• Thyme (3 sprigs, optional) – Enhances the flavor; dried thyme can be used in a smaller amount for convenience.
For Seasoning
• Salt, Ground Black Pepper, Paprika – Adjust to your taste; don’t be shy about seasoning to elevate overall flavor.
For Garnish
• Chopped Parsley – Adds a fresh, colorful touch to your finished dish.
This Creamy Garlic Chicken is sure to impress, marrying the comforts of home with gourmet flavors!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken
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Season: Start by generously seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and ground black pepper. This will enhance the flavor right from the beginning!
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Heat: Place a skillet (preferably cast-iron) over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Let the oil heat for a minute until it shimmers.
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Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet, cooking them for about 4–5 minutes on each side until they’re crispy and golden brown. Then, remove and set aside the perfectly browned chicken.
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Sauté Garlic: Discard any excess chicken fat from the skillet, then add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté 15-20 cloves of garlic, stirring frequently, until they turn a lovely golden brown.
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Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken to the skillet, adding in 1/2 cup of chicken broth, 1/3 cup of white wine, and 1/4 cup of plain yogurt. Stir to combine everything into a harmonious mixture.
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Simmer: Lower the heat and add thyme sprigs (if using), along with salt, pepper, and paprika. Let the mixture simmer until the sauce reduces slightly, intensifying the flavors.
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Optional Crisping: For a crispy finish, broil the chicken for 1 additional minute. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately for a vibrant touch!
Optional: Serve with pasta or rice for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken?
Transform your dinner into a delightful feast that excites the palate and soothes the soul with each bite.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes are a perfect canvas to soak up the luscious creamy sauce, creating a comforting and satisfying dish.
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Garlic Bread: Toasty and fragrant, garlic bread complements the dish flawlessly, allowing you to wipe up every bit of that decadent sauce. It’s a true crowd-pleaser!
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Steamed Broccoli: This fresh green vegetable adds a vibrant crunch and nutritious element, balancing the creaminess of the chicken while offering a refreshing contrast.
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Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice infused with herbs perfectly absorbs the rich sauce, making it an ideal side for those who crave a fuller meal experience.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender, slightly crispy asparagus provides a sophisticated touch and complements the garlic flavor beautifully without overpowering the dish.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons turn your dinner into a complete experience. The zesty dressing adds a delightful tang against the richness of the chicken.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this white wine brings out the brightness of the garlic and herbs, enhancing your overall dining experience.
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Chocolate Mousse: Finish on a sweet note with a light and airy chocolate mousse, providing a delightful contrast after the savory meal. Each decadent spoonful feels like a hug from dessert!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Garlic Chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to marinate beautifully. Additionally, chop the garlic and prepare your broth mixture (chicken broth, white wine, and yogurt) a day prior, keeping them chilled and well-covered. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the garlic, return the chicken to the skillet, and follow the final steps to simmer and serve. This prep ensures a quick and easy dinner on busy weeknights without sacrificing quality or flavor—enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal fuss!
Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic Chicken
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Debone for Success: Make sure the chicken is deboned for even cooking and to ensure tenderness. This prevents dry spots and enhances flavor.
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Watch the Garlic: Pay close attention when sautéing the garlic; it can burn quickly, turning bitter. Aim for a golden hue for the best flavor.
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Customize Your Veggies: Add your favorite vegetables—like mushrooms or spinach—during the sautéing step to boost nutrition and flavor in your Creamy Garlic Chicken.
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Adjust your Sauce: If your sauce turns out too thick, simply add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency while keeping it creamy.
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Let it Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving; this helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain the creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in individual portions within freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the dish out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Variations
Feel free to personalize your dish and make it uniquely yours with these delightful twists!
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Boneless Chicken: Swap chicken thighs for boneless skinless breasts for a quicker cooking option; just adjust the cooking time to prevent dryness.
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Vegetable Boost: Add vibrant veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers during the garlic sauté to create a nutritious, colorful medley that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
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Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil to transform the flavor profile and surprise your taste buds with new aromas.
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Lighter Sauce: For a lighter version, replace yogurt with Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream; it still delivers creaminess without the extra calories.
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Spicy Kick: Spice up your meal by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños; the heat will elevate the dish and add excitement to every bite.
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Citrus Zest: Brighten the sauce with a splash of lemon or lime juice; it enhances the flavors and provides a refreshing tang that balances the creaminess.
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Nutty Finish: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top for a lovely crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the smooth sauce.
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Gluten-Free Option: Serve over quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta or rice to keep it gluten-free while adding a healthy twist.
With these variations, you can always keep your Creamy Garlic Chicken fresh and exciting!
Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken thighs for this dish?
When selecting chicken thighs, look for pieces that are plump, moist, and have a nice even color. Avoid any that have dark spots or an unusual smell. Skin-on, deboned thighs will provide the best texture and flavor, but if you prefer a leaner option, boneless skinless chicken breasts are also a great substitution.
How should I store leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken?
Absolutely! Store any leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, it’s best to do so on low heat to preserve the creamy texture. You can microwave it, but be cautious and stir occasionally to ensure even warming.
Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken! For optimal results, freeze the dish in individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to remove as much air as possible. This will help preserve its quality for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What if my garlic burns while cooking?
If your garlic burns, don’t fret! Unfortunately, burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor. To remedy this, you’d need to start over with a fresh batch. Keep an eye on the garlic as it cooks, stirring frequently, and remove it from the heat as soon as it turns golden brown.
Is this recipe suitable for those with dairy allergies?
For those with dairy allergies, you can make a delicious dairy-free version of Creamy Garlic Chicken. Substitute the plain yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt like coconut or almond yogurt, ensuring to pick one that has a similar consistency for a creamy texture. You may also replace the butter with olive oil for sautéing.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
The more, the merrier! Feel free to boost the nutritional value of your Creamy Garlic Chicken by adding vegetables. Incorporate mushrooms or spinach when sautéing the garlic, or even bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor. Simply cook them until they’re tender before proceeding with the recipe.
20-Minute Creamy Garlic Chicken That'll Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and ground black pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Cook the chicken thighs for about 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Discard excess fat, then add remaining olive oil and sauté garlic until golden.
- Return chicken to skillet, add chicken broth, white wine, and yogurt. Stir to combine.
- Simmer with thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika until sauce reduces slightly.
- For extra crisp, broil chicken for 1 minute and garnish with parsley.