Garlic Chicken Recipe Cream Sauce - delicious Canadian chicken recipe
Easy

Garlic Chicken Recipe Cream Sauce

(411)
35 min4595 cal

By Chef Marco Deluca·Red Seal Certified Chef|January 15, 2024

This Garlic Chicken Recipe Cream Sauce recipe is a Canadian favourite that brings incredible flavour to your dinner table with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend cooking, this dish features tender, juicy chicken paired with carefully balanced seasonings that the whole family will love. Whether you are meal prepping for the week or cooking for guests, this recipe delivers consistent, restaurant-quality results every time. Every step has been tested in Canadian kitchens using ingredients available at your local grocery store. With a prep time of just 10 minutes, you can have this delicious meal ready without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of simple techniques and bold flavours makes this one of the most requested chicken recipes on our site. Bookmark this page and add it to your regular rotation — you will not be disappointed.

chicken-pastachicken-and-garlic-cream-saucecream-and-chickenchicken-and-creamy-garlic-sauc

Ingredients

Servings:
4

Instructions

👨‍🍳Chef's Notes

Mise en Place Saves Time

Even for quick recipes, spend 3 minutes measuring and prepping everything before you turn on the heat. It sounds counterintuitive, but it actually speeds up cooking because you're never scrambling mid-recipe.

Use a Meat Thermometer

The only reliable way to know chicken is safe and perfectly cooked is an instant-read thermometer. Pull at 74°C (165°F) in the thickest part. No guessing, no cutting into it and losing juices.

Save That Pasta Water

Always reserve a cup of starchy pasta water before draining. Adding it to your sauce creates a silky emulsion that clings to the noodles perfectly — it's the restaurant secret for glossy pasta.

About This Recipe

This Garlic Chicken Recipe with Cream Sauce has become a cherished staple in Canadian kitchens, beloved for its rich and comforting flavors that remind us of family gatherings and cozy nights in. The creamy garlic sauce envelops tender, juicy chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, making it an effortless yet indulgent dish that brings warmth to any dinner table. It’s the kind of meal that transforms a regular weeknight into something special, and its simplicity means you can whip it up with just a handful of ingredients, all available at your local grocery store.

Ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend cooking, this dish strikes a perfect balance between comfort and sophistication. The fragrant garlic melds beautifully with the heavy cream and Parmesan, creating a luscious sauce that clings to each bite. With a prep time of just 10 minutes, you can savor restaurant-quality dining right at home, making it a popular choice for meal prep or impressing guests without breaking a sweat. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a top request among Canadian home cooks.

Tips for the Best Garlic Chicken Recipe Cream Sauce

To cook this dish perfectly, ensure your chicken breasts are evenly sized for consistent cooking. Sear them in olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until they reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) to avoid dryness. Once the chicken is done, allow it to rest briefly before slicing, which helps retain its juices. When making the cream sauce, don’t rush the simmering process; this allows the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken beautifully.

What to Serve With It

For a truly Canadian twist, serve this Garlic Chicken with Cream Sauce alongside a fresh garden salad tossed with a light vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots. A crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce, and don’t forget to sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for a cheesy finish. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp, chilled white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the creamy richness.

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers of this Garlic Chicken with Cream Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating and the chicken from drying out. If you wish to freeze it, the dish can be kept in the freezer for up to three months; however, the cream sauce may change texture upon thawing. To serve after freezing, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slowly on the stove with a splash of cream to revive the sauce's consistency.

Nutrition Per Serving

595
Calories
45g
Protein
23g
Fat
52g
Carbs
Fiber4g
Sugar11g
Sodium526mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?+

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and remain moist during cooking. Just ensure they are cooked to the same internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) for safety.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?+

If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich, but it will still be delicious.

How can I make this dish spicier?+

For a kick of heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce while it simmers. Start with a little and adjust to your spice preference.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?+

Definitely! Adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes can enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition. Just cook them alongside the chicken or add them to the sauce.

How do I know when the pasta is perfectly cooked?+

For al dente pasta, cook it according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Taste a piece a minute or two before the time is up; it should be firm but not hard.

Reviews

4.8 / 5 (411 reviews)
Daniel D.
Jan 1, 2025

Absolutely delicious! The whole family devoured it.

Emily Z.
Jan 11, 2025

Made this for a dinner party and everyone asked for the recipe.

Justin A.
May 20, 2025

Made this for a dinner party and everyone asked for the recipe.

Sarah A.
Sep 1, 2025

Easy to follow and turned out amazing. A new favourite.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep:
10 min
Cook:
25 min
Total:
35 min
Servings:
4
Difficulty:
Easy

Pro Tips

  • 1Always pat chicken dry before cooking for the best sear and crispiest skin.
  • 2Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 74°C (165°F) for food safety.
  • 3Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.

Variations

  • Substitute chicken thighs for breast for a juicier, more forgiving result.
  • Add your favourite seasonal vegetables to make it a complete one-dish meal.
  • Adjust spice levels to your personal preference — start mild and add more heat gradually.

Chicken Pasta

Garlic Chicken Recipe Cream Sauce

Ready in 35 minutes! This Garlic Chicken Recipe Cream Sauce is a weeknight winner.

by ChickenRecipes.ca

Garlic Chicken Recipe Cream Sauce - delicious Canadian chicken recipe
Chef Marco Deluca

Chef Marco Deluca

Head Chef & Recipe Developer

Marco is a Red Seal certified chef with over 15 years of professional kitchen experience across Canada. After training at George Brown College in Toronto and working in acclaimed restaurants from Vancouver to Montreal, he founded ChickenRecipes.ca to share his expertise with home cooks. Marco specializes in making restaurant-quality chicken dishes accessible for everyday Canadian kitchens.

Red Seal Certified ChefGeorge Brown College Culinary Arts Graduate15+ years professional kitchen experience

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