Introduction

Welcome to your new favorite weeknight dinner! If you’re looking for a dish that combines rich flavors with minimal effort, look no further than this Effortless Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet. This recipe takes succulent chicken breasts and bathes them in a luscious garlic butter sauce, creating a delightful symphony of taste that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Jump to Recipe

Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent juggling multiple tasks, or simply someone who loves an easy yet elegant meal, this skillet dish is perfect for you. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a comforting and satisfying meal that features tender chicken and a creamy sauce that’s perfect for spooning over rice or pasta—or even mopping up with crusty bread!

Packed with flavorful ingredients and a touch of freshness from herbs, this recipe proves that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create something truly delicious. So grab your skillet, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
1. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, place the chicken breasts in and cook for approximately 5-7 minutes per side until they achieve a golden brown color and are thoroughly cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
1. Create the Garlic Butter Base: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. After it has melted, introduce the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until its aroma is released, taking care not to burn it.
1. Make the Creamy Sauce: Add the chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet. Mix thoroughly, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for several minutes until it becomes slightly thickened.
1. Add Spinach and Cheese: Fold in the chopped spinach and Parmesan cheese. Allow it to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the cheese has melted into the sauce.
1. Return Chicken to the Skillet: Gently place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, ensuring to spoon the sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes so the chicken is warmed through and the flavors combine beautifully.
1. Serve: Top with fresh parsley and, if desired, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan. Serve hot, drizzling additional sauce over the chicken.

Key Ingredients

Chicken Thighs or Breasts: 1.5 to 2 pounds, boneless and skinless for easy cooking and tenderness.
Butter: 4 tablespoons, unsalted for controlling the saltiness and enhancing the rich flavor.
Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced for that aromatic and savory base.
Heavy Cream: 1 cup to make the sauce luscious and creamy.
Chicken Broth: 1 cup to add depth and richness to the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated for a cheesy finish.
Fresh Spinach: 2-3 cups for a pop of color and nutrition.
Italian Seasoning: 1-2 teaspoons for a blend of herbs to elevate the flavors.
Salt and Pepper: To taste for seasoning the chicken and sauce.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish and fresh flavor.

These ingredients come together to create a delightful dish that’s both creamy and full of savory garlic goodness!

Baking Process

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, garlic, heavy cream, butter, chicken broth, parmesan cheese, and seasonings including salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Having everything at your fingertips makes the cooking process smooth and efficient.
Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and any other preferred seasonings such as Italian seasoning or paprika for an extra flavor kick.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. When the butter is sizzling, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining butter. Allow it to melt before adding minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add Cream & Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the grated parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy and well blended. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if desired.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy garlic sauce over them. Allow everything to simmer together for an additional 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the chicken to reheat thoroughly.
Garnish and Serve: Once everything is heated and the sauce is thickened to your liking, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional parmesan cheese if desired. Serve the creamy garlic butter chicken skillet warm alongside your choice of side, like rice or steamed vegetables.
Enjoy: Grab a fork and dive into this effortlessly delicious meal! The combination of creamy garlic butter sauce with perfectly cooked chicken will leave you craving more.

Serving Suggestions

To complement your Effortless Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet, consider these delightful serving suggestions:

Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. The creamy sauce will soak into the grains, making each bite delicious.
Pasta: Toss your favorite pasta, such as fettuccine or penne, with the creamy sauce for a comforting meal. A sprinkle of Parmesan on top would elevate the flavors beautifully.
Steamed Vegetables: Add a side of steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a nutritious boost. The crispness of the vegetables makes for a wonderful textural contrast.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic butter sauce pairs perfectly with homemade mashed potatoes. Serve the chicken on top for a hearty, satisfying dinner.
Crusty Bread: Don’t forget some slices of crusty bread or garlic bread to sop up the velvety sauce. It’s a great way to ensure none of that deliciousness goes to waste.
Salad: A light side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette can refresh the palate and balance out the creaminess of the dish.
Roasted Potatoes: Serve alongside crispy roasted potatoes sprinkled with herbs for a savory side that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on your cravings and dietary preferences for a well-rounded and satisfying meal!

Conclusion

The Effortless Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is a delightful dish that brings comfort and sophistication to your dinner table without demanding hours of preparation. With its rich and creamy sauce, infused with aromatic garlic and the savory goodness of butter, this recipe is perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions alike. The tender chicken melds beautifully with the sauce, making every bite a memorable experience. Plus, the one-pan preparation means less hassle and easier cleanup, allowing you to savor your culinary creation with friends and family.

Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite herbs or add vegetables to suit your taste. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice, pasta, or alongside crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that creamy sauce. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting in the kitchen, this dish is sure to impress and become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of this creamy garlic butter chicken skillet—it’s a meal that truly nurtures the soul!