There’s nothing more comforting than a plate of creamy garlic chicken over buttery noodles. This one-pan dish is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Made with tender chicken thighs and a rich garlic cream sauce, it’s perfect for both weeknights and special occasions.
What makes this dish a go-to in so many kitchens is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy ingredients—just real, honest flavors coming together in a dreamy sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.
It’s also a flexible recipe. Whether you like boneless thighs, bone-in cuts, or even prefer adding veggies like mushrooms or spinach, you can make it your own. The garlic, butter, and Parmesan combo delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters love. Paired with egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, it’s a dish that works all year round. The richness of the cream and depth of garlic create that irresistible bite.
Make it once, and it’s sure to enter your regular dinner rotation. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making leftovers something to look forward to. If you’re looking for comfort food with elevated flavor and minimal effort, this creamy garlic chicken is your answer.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Noodles:
- 12 oz egg noodles
- Salt, for boiling water
- 1 tbsp butter (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat chicken thighs dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken thighs until golden brown, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Slowly whisk in chicken broth and cream, stirring constantly until smooth.
Add Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
Stir in Parmesan cheese if using.
3. Finish Cooking:
Return chicken thighs to the skillet and spoon some sauce over the top.
Cover and simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
4. Cook the Noodles:
While the chicken finishes, boil the egg noodles in salted water according to package instructions.
Drain, toss with a little butter if desired, and set aside.
5. Serve:
Plate the noodles and top with chicken thighs and a generous spoonful of garlic cream sauce.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Pro Tips:
- Use bone-in thighs for more flavor, but adjust cooking time as needed.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra depth.
- Don’t skip searing the chicken—it builds the flavor base for the sauce.
- If you want it thicker, simmer the sauce uncovered a little longer before returning the chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A):
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
- Yes! Chicken breasts work well—just be sure not to overcook them. Thighs tend to stay juicier, but breasts will still taste great with this sauce.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
- You can substitute with whole milk or half-and-half, but the sauce may be slightly thinner. Add a touch more flour to help thicken it if needed.
Is it better to sear the chicken first?
- Absolutely. Searing builds deep flavor and adds richness to the final sauce, so don’t skip it!
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
- Yes. You can make the full dish and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat and add a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.
What side dishes go well with this recipe?
- Steamed broccoli, green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp green salad pair beautifully with the creamy richness of the chicken and noodles.
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- Easy Mason Jar Ice Cream Recipe
