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Creamy Garlic Chicken (Low Carb Recipe) - Comforting, Fast, and Flavorful

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), pounded to even thickness
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for color and depth)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 5–6 large garlic cloves, minced or pressed (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a subtle tang)
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest and 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or chives), for garnish

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken dry. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Pounding to an even thickness helps it cook quickly and evenly.
  2. Sear the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Transfer to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
  3. Build the base: Reduce heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet. When melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté 30–60 seconds until fragrant, stirring so it doesn’t brown.
  4. Deglaze: Pour in the chicken broth. Scrape up the browned bits from the pan—that’s pure flavor. Simmer 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  5. Make it creamy: Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and Dijon if using. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens enough to coat a spoon. Keep heat moderate to prevent curdling.
  6. Brighten: Add lemon zest and juice. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. The lemon lifts the richness and makes the garlic pop.
  7. Finish: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer 1 minute to warm through. Sprinkle with parsley and serve.