If you are craving a dish that oozes comfort and bursts with rich flavor, then this Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe is definitely for you. Imagine tender chicken breasts enveloped in a luxurious, garlicky cream sauce that’s perfectly seasoned and velvety smooth. This recipe balances the aromatic punch of roasted garlic with a creamy texture that clings beautifully to each piece of chicken. It’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that feels both cozy enough for weeknights and special enough to impress guests. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this dish is straightforward to prepare yet delivers maximum satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this dish so magical are the simple, everyday ingredients that bring layers of flavor, richness, and a pleasing texture to the table. Each item contributes something essential, from the tender chicken breasts providing the perfect protein base to the roasted garlic that infuses the sauce with warmth and depth.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.3 lbs.): Choose fresh, even-sized breasts for the best cooking results and tenderness.
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning: Adds a fragrant blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances and elevates every other flavor.
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Provides a mild kick and freshness.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Coats the chicken to create a delicate crust and helps thicken the sauce.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps achieve that perfect golden sear.
- 2 Tbsp butter, divided: One tablespoon for searing and one for sautéing garlic, adding silky richness.
- 1 whole garlic bulb (about 8-9 cloves): Roasting whole garlic cloves softens and sweetens the flavor, giving that unmistakable creamy garlic punch.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Builds the sauce’s savory base with deep flavor that brightens the cream.
- 3/4 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce indulgently smooth and luscious.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor without overpowering.
- Salt and Pepper to taste: To perfectly season your sauce and chicken.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets
Start by carefully slicing each chicken breast into two thinner cutlets using a sharp knife. This step is key because thinner pieces cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully. If you prefer convenience, thin-cut chicken breasts can be used instead.
Step 2: Season and Coat the Chicken
Next, coat the chicken evenly with Italian seasoning, salt, and cracked black pepper. Then sprinkle flour on both sides and gently rub it in. The flour creates a subtle crust when cooked, sealing in juices while helping thicken the sauce later.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat with olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once hot, add the chicken cutlets and cook each side for about 4 minutes until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms and the chicken is cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm—this is the foundation of your dish, and it deserves that perfect sear.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic
While the chicken is cooking, peel the garlic cloves from the bulb and gently smash them with the side of your chef’s knife. Smashing releases their aromatic oils, which will infuse the sauce with robust flavor when sautéed.
Step 5: Sauté the Garlic
Return the skillet to medium-low heat and add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Toss in the smashed garlic cloves and sauté for about 3 minutes until they turn lightly golden and release their intoxicating aroma. Stir frequently to prevent burning—this subtle caramelization is what makes the sauce so irresistibly rich.
Step 6: Create the Cream Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then add garlic powder. Use your spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the skillet—those are flavor goldmines! Let the sauce simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until it thickens and reduces by half. At this point, taste and adjust with salt and pepper to make sure every bite is perfectly balanced.
Step 7: Bring It All Together
Finally, nestle the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet and spoon the luscious creamy sauce generously over the top. Let the chicken warm through for a couple of minutes so the sauce seeps into every nook and cranny. Serve immediately, maybe with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add color and brightness, and savor every mouthful of this dreamy Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
While the sauce is flavorful enough on its own, fresh garnishes can add a delightful pop of freshness and color. Try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives over your dish right before serving for a pretty presentation and a subtle herbaceous note. A little grated Parmesan cheese also pairs wonderfully with the creamy garlic sauce for an extra layer of richness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with sides that soak up the luscious sauce. Creamy mashed potatoes, buttery garlic bread, or fluffy rice are perfect for mopping up every last drop. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad can provide a refreshing balance, keeping the meal hearty but well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken atop a bed of sautéed spinach or wilted kale, letting the rich sauce coat the greens as well. Alternatively, placing the creamy chicken over cooked pasta transforms it into a comforting one-pan meal, perfect for a cozy dinner. No matter how you plate it, this Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe steals the show with its indulgence and warmth.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy garlic chicken tastes just as wonderful the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy it within 3 to 4 days to keep the freshness and flavor intact.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers to maintain the best texture. The dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream sauce from breaking. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating helps keep the sauce smooth and vibrant. Avoid overheating to maintain the tenderness of the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work well and add a bit more juiciness and flavor. Just adjust cooking time slightly since thighs can take a bit longer to cook through.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream and use dairy-free butter or olive oil. The taste will be slightly different but still deliciously creamy and flavorful.
How do I make sure the garlic doesn’t burn?
Cooking the garlic on medium-low heat and stirring frequently is key. Burnt garlic tastes bitter, so keep an eye on it and remove from heat as soon as the garlic is golden and fragrant.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Definitely! Just double the ingredients and use a large enough skillet or pan. Keep an eye on cooking times and adjust as needed, especially when searing the chicken pieces in batches.
What can I do with any leftover sauce?
Leftover sauce is fantastic drizzled over steamed vegetables or mixed into mashed potatoes. It also makes a great base for a creamy pasta dish—just toss cooked pasta in the sauce and heat through.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in food form, with rich flavors that satisfy and comfort. It’s simple enough to make on any night, yet impressive enough to serve for a special occasion. I hope once you try it, it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen too, offering endless creamy, garlicky goodness whenever you need a little culinary joy.
Print
Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe features tender, thinly sliced chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and served in a rich, flavorful garlic cream sauce. With a combination of garlic, chicken broth, and heavy cream, this comforting dish is perfect for a satisfying family dinner or an impressive weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.3 lbs. total)
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Cooking Fat
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 Tbsp butter, divided
Sauce
- 1 whole garlic bulb (about 8–9 garlic cloves)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Using a sharp knife, carefully fillet each chicken breast into two thinner cutlets (or use thin-cut chicken breasts) to ensure quick and even cooking.
- Season and Flour: Season each chicken cutlet with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the flour over both sides and rub it in evenly to create a light coating for a crisp sear.
- Sear Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet, place on a clean plate, and cover to keep warm.
- Prepare Garlic: While the chicken cooks, peel the garlic cloves from the bulb. Smash each clove gently using the side of a large chef’s knife by pressing down with the heel of your hand.
- Sauté Garlic: To the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the smashed garlic cloves, reduce heat to medium-low, and sauté for 3 minutes until garlic is lightly browned and fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Make Sauce: Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet with garlic. Add garlic powder and scrape up any browned bits from the skillet bottom to incorporate flavor. Allow the sauce to simmer for 8-10 minutes until it reduces and thickens by about 50%. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Finish and Serve: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the creamy garlic sauce over them, and heat through briefly. Optionally garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy garlic chicken!
Notes
- For quicker cooking, use thin-cut chicken breasts or butterfly the chicken breasts as instructed.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing; keep the heat medium-low and stir frequently.
- The sauce thickens as it simmers—if it gets too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to loosen it up.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
