Creamy Garlic Chicken: A Simple One-Pan Skillet Meal

Oh, sweet friends, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm, homemade meal, is there? This Creamy Garlic Chicken soup instantly transports me back to those cozy afternoons in my grandmother’s kitchen, where every simmer and stir was a step closer to pure deliciousness. It’s a dish that embodies everything I adore about home cooking – rich, flavorful, and made with love. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a bowl of pure nostalgia, blended with the inviting aroma of tender chicken and fragrant garlic.

I remember one particularly chilly autumn day when my grandmother, bless her heart, was bustling about, creating what she called her “miracle soup.” The scent of sautéing garlic and simmering herbs filled every nook and cranny of her charming, old farmhouse. It was a simple combination of ingredients, but the magic she wove into it taught me that the most extraordinary flavors often come from the heart and a dash of patience. That day, this creamy garlic chicken soup was born, warming us from the inside out and leaving us utterly content.

This recipe is truly a gift, offering both ease and profound satisfaction. It’s wonderfully family-friendly, making it perfect for busy weeknights, and it truly shines as a comforting dish that brings everyone to the table. My secret trick? Always taste as you go! Adjusting the seasonings ever so slightly at each stage ensures a soup that sings with flavor.

What You Need to Make This Recipe

For this heartwarming Creamy Garlic Chicken soup, we’ll be embracing simple, wholesome ingredients that transform into something truly extraordinary. Think tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and a velvety cream base, all coming together in a symphony of flavor. I always believe that the best dishes start with quality ingredients, and this recipe is no exception, promising a comforting meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. You’ll find the complete list and precise measurements for all the ingredients in the recipe card below.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken

Crafting this delightful soup is a journey of building layers of flavor, starting with perfectly cooked chicken, then creating a rich, aromatic base with vegetables and garlic, and finally bringing it all together with broth and cream. It’s a beautifully straightforward process that will have your kitchen smelling incredible. Just a few steps stand between you and a steaming bowl of this satisfying creamy garlic chicken soup.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Soup

A comforting and hearty soup featuring tender chicken, an abundance of roasted garlic flavor, and a rich, velvety cream broth. Perfect for a cozy meal.

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground

For the Soup Base

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion chopped
• 2 stalks celery chopped
• 2 medium carrots peeled and diced
• 8-10 cloves garlic minced (about 2-3 tablespoons)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 6 cups chicken broth low sodium
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup small red or Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and diced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary crushed
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Dutch Oven
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Method

 

Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels. Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.

Build the Soup Base

1. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the pot. Once melted, add onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste, creating a roux.
4. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken.

Simmer and Finish

1. Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Add the diced potatoes, dried thyme, and crushed rosemary. Stir well.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in the heavy cream. Heat through for 2-3 minutes, but do not boil after adding cream.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper as needed.

Serve

1. Ladle the Creamy Garlic Chicken Soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

This soup is even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For an extra boost of garlic flavor, you can roast a whole head of garlic, mash the cloves, and add them to the soup along with the minced garlic.

Pro Tips for Making This Creamy Garlic Chicken

Over the years, I’ve learned a few little tricks that can elevate even the simplest recipes. For this Creamy Garlic Chicken soup, these tips will help you achieve that perfect balance of creamy texture and rich flavor.

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  When you’re sautéing the onion, celery, and carrots, take your time. Allowing them to soften and release their natural sweetness is crucial for building a flavorful foundation for your soup. Don’t rush this step!

  
  
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  My Secret Trick: Before adding the flour to create your roux, make sure your butter is fully melted and you cook the flour for just a minute or two. This tiny step is essential for cooking out the raw flour taste and ensuring a smooth, lump-free, deliciously thick soup.

  
  
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  For the best flavor, I always recommend using a good quality chicken broth. It truly makes a difference in the overall depth of your creamy garlic chicken soup. Homemade is wonderful if you have it, but a store-bought low-sodium option works beautifully too.

  
  
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  Once you add the heavy cream, keep the heat on low and avoid a rolling boil. Gentle simmering is key to maintaining that luscious, creamy texture without curdling, making your creamy garlic chicken perfectly smooth.

  
  

Fun Variations for Creamy Garlic Chicken

One of the joys of cooking is the freedom to get creative and adapt a recipe to your heart’s content! This Creamy Garlic Chicken soup is wonderfully versatile, and I love experimenting with different twists to keep things exciting. My sister, for instance, adores a little extra something in her bowl, and these ideas are always a hit.

Add Some Greens

For a touch of freshness and extra nutrients, I often stir in some fresh spinach or chopped kale right at the end of cooking. The residual heat will wilt them perfectly, adding a lovely color and a delicate, earthy note to your creamy garlic chicken.

Spice It Up

If you enjoy a bit of a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes added with the garlic can introduce a delightful warmth. My friend Mark always asks me to add a dash for an extra zing, making his creamy garlic chicken soup feel even more comforting on a cold day.

Cheesy Goodness

Who doesn’t love cheese? Stirring in a handful of freshly grated Parmesan or a sharp cheddar during the last few minutes can add a wonderful savory depth and an extra creamy texture. It melts beautifully into the creamy garlic chicken.

What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Chicken

A bowl of this comforting Creamy Garlic Chicken soup is a meal in itself, but sometimes you just want a little something extra to complete the experience! I love thinking about what complements the rich, savory notes of this dish, making every bite feel like a special occasion.

I always find that a crusty baguette or some warm, buttered rolls are absolutely perfect for soaking up every last drop of the creamy broth. My mom often bakes her homemade focaccia, and it’s a match made in heaven! A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also provides a lovely contrast, cutting through the richness of the creamy garlic chicken with its fresh crunch. And for a quick serving idea, a sprinkle of extra fresh parsley right before serving adds a beautiful pop of color and herbaceousness.

How to Store Creamy Garlic Chicken

After all the love and effort you put into making this delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken soup, you’ll want to make sure any leftovers stay as delightful as the first spoonful! Proper storage is key to preserving those wonderful flavors and textures.

Refrigeration

Leftover creamy garlic chicken soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. I always make sure it’s completely cooled before putting it away to prevent condensation.

Freezer Friendly

Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! Allow the creamy garlic chicken soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. If it seems a little thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency. My personal tip? A light dusting of fresh parsley or a tiny swirl of fresh cream after reheating brings this creamy garlic chicken right back to life!

Nutritional Benefits

This delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken soup offers more than just comfort; it’s a wonderfully satisfying meal packed with goodness. With lean protein from the chicken, plus an array of vitamins and fiber from the colorful vegetables like carrots and celery, it’s a treat that’s both satisfying and nourishing. It’s my kind of wholesome indulgence, bringing simple, natural ingredients together for a delightful creamy garlic chicken dish.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used in this creamy garlic chicken recipe. They tend to stay even more tender and add a bit more richness to the soup. Cook them similarly to the breasts until browned and cooked through.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

While the “creamy” aspect is key to this creamy garlic chicken, you can experiment with dairy-free alternatives. Coconut milk or a good quality dairy-free cream substitute could work, though the flavor profile will be different.

What kind of potatoes are best for this soup?

Small red or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this creamy garlic chicken soup because they hold their shape well during simmering and contribute a lovely creamy texture without becoming mushy.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can certainly prepare this creamy garlic chicken soup a day in advance. The flavors often deepen overnight! Just gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to adjust consistency.

Conclusion

And there you have it, sweet friends! This Creamy Garlic Chicken soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create warmth, comfort, and cherished memories in your own kitchen. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it truly embodies the joy of homemade desserts that bring people together. I hope this creamy garlic chicken dish inspires you to embrace the magic of your own kitchen, where every stir and simmer adds a little more love to the world. Happy cooking!