Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, creamy garlic sauce. The sauce, packed with lots of fresh garlic and a smooth, velvety texture, coats the chicken perfectly, making every bite flavorful and satisfying. It’s a simple recipe, but the flavors feel fancy enough for a special dinner.
I love making this dish when I want something hearty but not too complicated. The garlic really shines here, but it’s balanced by the creamy sauce so it’s not overpowering. One thing I always do is add a sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end—it brightens everything up and makes it look so pretty on the plate. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference.
For serving, I like to pair this chicken with warm mashed potatoes or over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up all that creamy goodness. It’s also great alongside some steamed veggies or a simple salad for a complete meal. Whenever I make this, everyone asks for seconds, and it’s become a go-to recipe for cozy weeknight dinners or when friends come over. I’m sure you’ll love how easy and tasty it is!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: I like using boneless, skinless for quick cooking and easy slicing. If you prefer, thighs work well too—they stay juicy and flavorful.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best here for that strong, fragrant flavor. Mince it finely or press it to release all the aroma.
Heavy cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or coconut milk, but the sauce will be less thick.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty taste. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Asiago make nice substitutes.
Italian herbs: A mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme works great. Feel free to use fresh herbs if you have them—they make the sauce brighter.
How Can I Get the Chicken Both Juicy Inside and Perfectly Seared Outside?
Getting a golden-brown crust while keeping chicken juicy can be tricky but is doable with a few tips:
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to get a good sear.
- Use medium-high heat and don’t move the chicken too soon—let it brown well on one side before flipping.
- Cook chicken breasts evenly by choosing similar thickness or gently pounding them.
- Remove chicken from heat just when cooked through; it will keep cooking a little from residual heat.
These steps help lock in juices while giving a nice crust that adds flavor and texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I prefer a skillet that retains heat well for an even sear and easy sauce prep.
- Meat thermometer – helps ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked without overcooking or undercooking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for scraping up browned bits and stirring the sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate measurement of cream, broth, and cheese.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked bacon bits or pancetta for extra smoky flavor—stir them into the sauce for richness.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to boost veggies and flavor.
- Swap Parmesan for crumbled feta or shredded cheddar for different cheesy tastes.
- Sprinkle a pinch of paprika or chili powder for a little smoky heat.
Creamy Garlic Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for mild heat)
- 1 tbsp butter
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice or mashed potatoes, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy garlic chicken takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and searing the chicken, and another 10-15 minutes making the sauce and letting the chicken simmer in it. It’s a quick and satisfying dinner you can whip up on any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning and Searing the Chicken:
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry and then seasoning both sides with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, add your chicken breasts. Let them cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side until fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Preparing the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Once it melts, add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, making sure it doesn’t burn—stir it constantly. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Let this simmer for 2 minutes.
3. Making the Sauce and Finishing the Dish:
Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Cook the sauce for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly, stirring here and there. Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon some sauce over the top, and let it simmer for another 3-5 minutes so the flavors can blend.
4. Serving Up:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the chicken for a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve the creamy garlic chicken with warm cooked rice or creamy mashed potatoes, spooning extra sauce over the plate for maximum flavor. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture for a better sear.
How Can I Thicken the Sauce More?
If your sauce isn’t thick enough, simmer it a bit longer uncovered to reduce it, or stir in a small slurry of cornstarch and water (about 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) and cook until it thickens.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Cook the chicken and sauce fully, then cool and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
What Are Good Side Dishes to Serve With This?
This chicken goes well with mashed potatoes, white rice, or even steamed vegetables to soak up the creamy garlic sauce. A simple green salad is a great fresh contrast, too.
