Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

There’s just something magical about a skillet full of Creamy Garlic Chicken. This dish transforms simple ingredients into a flavor-packed meal that feels both comforting and impressive. Tender, golden-browned chicken soaks up a luscious, velvety sauce loaded with sweet, caramelized garlic and a hint of Parmesan for savory depth. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Creamy Garlic Chicken is bound to wow your taste buds and have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe pulls its own weight, coming together to offer layers of texture, richness, and color. With a handful of pantry staples and just a few fresh touches, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up a restaurant-quality Creamy Garlic Chicken at home.

• Chicken Breasts: Use large boneless, skinless breasts for juicy, tender results after slicing and pounding to an even thickness.
• Salt & Pepper: The essential, simple seasoning base that elevates every bite of the chicken.
• Italian Seasonings: A blend of herbs brings an aromatic, savory warmth to the dish.
• Flour: Helps create a beautiful light crust on the chicken and later thickens the sauce to perfection.
• Parmesan Cheese (shredded): Finely shredded cheese not only flavors the dredge but also melts into the sauce for extra creaminess.
• Olive Oil: The cooking oil of choice for developing that golden sear on the chicken.
• Chicken Broth: The savory backbone of the sauce, keeping things rich but not heavy.
• Beef Bouillon Cube (or Better Than Bouillon): This small addition adds big flavor and depth to the sauce.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce: Adds umami and saltiness. Worcestershire sauce is a great substitute if you’d like!
• Onion Powder: Brings subtle background flavor without overpowering the garlic.
• Dried Thyme: A fragrant herb that pairs beautifully with garlic and cream.
• Mustard Powder: Adds a gentle zing to brighten the sauce.
• Butter: Gives the sauce its luscious, silky mouthfeel and a touch of richness.
• Garlic Cloves (whole): The star of the show, these become mellow and sweet after caramelizing.
• Flour (for sauce): A bit more flour helps achieve that just-right thick, creamy consistency in the finished sauce.
• Heavy Cream: The key to giving Creamy Garlic Chicken its unforgettable velvety sauce.
• Extra Parmesan Cheese (optional): Stir in for added cheesy goodness and savory punch.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Flavor Base

Start by blending the chicken broth, bouillon cube, soy sauce, onion powder, mustard powder, and dried thyme together in a large measuring cup or pitcher. Having this mixture ready helps each component seamlessly combine later, infusing the sauce with bold, balanced flavors from the very start. Now, also combine the flour and shredded Parmesan on a plate, and gather all your remaining ingredients so the cooking process is a breeze.

Step 2: Prepare and Season the Chicken

To get juicy, evenly cooked chicken, slice each breast lengthwise to create thinner pieces. Place them between sheets of plastic wrap and pound gently with the textured side of a meat mallet until they’re about half an inch thick. This tenderizing ensures the chicken won’t dry out. Pat them dry with paper towels, season liberally with salt, pepper, and Italian seasonings, then dredge each piece in the flour and Parmesan coating, tapping off the excess for just the right amount of breading.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in batches so as not to overcrowd the pan. Let each side cook undisturbed for about 4 to 5 minutes until a gorgeously crisp, golden-brown crust forms. This not only locks in moisture but also sets the stage for extra flavor when we build the sauce right in the same pan. Set the cooked chicken aside on a plate while you move on.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium or medium-low and melt the butter in the skillet. Use a heat-safe spatula to gently scrape up the browned bits stuck to the pan — this is pure flavor gold! Add the whole peeled garlic cloves and let them cook for 6 to 7 minutes. As they soften and caramelize, they’ll develop a mellow sweetness that’s the heart of Creamy Garlic Chicken. Sprinkle in more flour and cook for another minute or two until you no longer smell raw flour.

Step 5: Build and Finish the Sauce

Gradually pour in the prepared broth mixture, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. As it bubbles and thickens, stir in the heavy cream, bring it to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. If you’d like, sprinkle in extra Parmesan at this stage, stirring until smooth and luxurious. Return the cooked chicken and any juices back to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon some sauce over the top, cover the skillet partially, and let everything simmer for about 5 minutes. The chicken will be even more succulent and infused with all those creamy, garlicky flavors.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken

Garnishes

The finishing touches can make Creamy Garlic Chicken absolutely irresistible. Sprinkle plenty of freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Add a pinch of cracked black pepper or even a light dusting of extra Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent. For an elegant presentation, consider slicing the chicken and fanning it out over a bed of sauce!

Side Dishes

This dreamy dish practically begs for sides that help soak up every drop of that luscious sauce. Fluffy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing, as are roasted green beans or simply steamed broccoli. For something a little lighter, try a crisp green salad or cauliflower mash — each will balance the richness of the Creamy Garlic Chicken beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try spooning Creamy Garlic Chicken and sauce over a bed of cooked pasta or rice. It also makes a stunning filling for a sandwich or served inside a hollowed baguette as a decadent lunch. If you’re planning a dinner party, serve individual portions in small cast-iron skillets or ramekins for a charming, rustic look that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to three days, and the flavors become even more pronounced as they meld together.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze it, let the chicken and sauce cool completely first. Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. Cream-based sauces may separate slightly when thawed, but a good stir or gentle warming will help restore their silky texture.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Creamy Garlic Chicken gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often, until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce seems too thick. The microwave works in a pinch, but be sure to cover to retain moisture and avoid overcooking the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in Creamy Garlic Chicken. They’ll offer an even richer flavor and stay extra juicy throughout cooking.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute half & half or even whole milk in a pinch, although the sauce will be slightly less rich. To compensate, add an extra spoonful of Parmesan or a small pat of butter for that luscious mouthfeel.

How do I make this dairy-free?

For a dairy-free twist, use olive oil or a dairy-free margarine instead of butter, and coconut or oat cream for the sauce. Skip the Parmesan or try a plant-based cheese alternative.

Is this dish spicy?

Creamy Garlic Chicken is more savory and aromatic than spicy. If you prefer a hint of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sauce-making stage to your taste.

Can I prep this in advance for a party?

Yes! Prepare the chicken and sauce up to a day in advance, store them separately in the refrigerator, then combine and reheat gently just before serving. It’s a fantastic make-ahead option for entertaining.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a dish that’s comforting, quick, and undeniably full of flavor, give Creamy Garlic Chicken a try. The sauce is pure magic, the chicken stays flavorful and moist, and every bite is bound to win rave reviews. Grab your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this extra-special skillet classic tonight!

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