Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish featuring golden, pan-seared chicken smothered in a velvety garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. It’s indulgent yet approachable, ideal for a cozy family dinner or a date-night meal at home. This recipe combines savory, caramelized garlic with a well-seasoned chicken base and a silky, herb-infused sauce that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in a home-cooked meal. The chicken is juicy and golden, and the sauce is deeply flavorful thanks to caramelized garlic, Parmesan, herbs, and cream. It’s versatile, quick enough for weeknights, and impressive enough for entertaining. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts
• All-purpose flour
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Whole garlic cloves
• Chicken broth
• Bouillon cube
• Soy sauce
• Onion powder
• Mustard powder
• Dried thyme
• Heavy cream
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Prep Work

1. In a measuring cup, mix together chicken broth, bouillon cube, soy sauce, onion powder, mustard powder, and thyme. Set aside.

2. On a plate, combine flour and Parmesan cheese. Measure and prepare the remaining ingredients so everything is ready to go before cooking begins.

Cook the Chicken

1. Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thin cutlets. Place between plastic wrap and pound to ½-inch thickness. Pat dry.

2. Season both sides of the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Dredge in the flour-Parmesan mixture and shake off excess.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Work in batches to avoid crowding. Set aside.

Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium to medium-low heat. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.

2. Add the garlic cloves and cook for 6–7 minutes until soft and lightly caramelized.

3. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to eliminate the raw flour taste.

4. Gradually pour in the prepared chicken broth mixture, stirring continuously to maintain a smooth consistency.

5. Add the cream and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and fully combined.

6. Return the chicken and any juices to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken. Cover partially and simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Serve

1. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

2. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless thighs for a juicier option.

• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles.

• Add Vegetables: Sauté mushrooms or spinach in the sauce for added texture and flavor.

• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild kick.

• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Freezing Not Recommended: Cream-based sauces may separate when frozen and reheated.

FAQs

Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of whole cloves?

Whole cloves offer a mellow, caramelized flavor that minced garlic doesn’t replicate, but you can use minced garlic in a pinch (about 1 tablespoon).

Is it necessary to pound the chicken?

Yes, it ensures even cooking and helps achieve a consistent golden crust.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Whole milk can work, but the sauce will be thinner. Add more Parmesan to help thicken.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can make the sauce and chicken separately and combine just before serving.

What side dishes pair well?

Mashed potatoes, pasta, steamed broccoli, green beans, or rice all work beautifully.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If needed, let the sauce simmer uncovered a few extra minutes, or stir in a touch more flour before adding the broth.

Can I omit the bouillon cube?

You can, but it adds extra depth. If skipping it, increase the seasoning slightly.

Does this recipe work with bone-in chicken?

It’s designed for boneless cuts; bone-in pieces will need longer cooking and may affect sauce timing.

What type of cream should I use?

Heavy cream is ideal. For a slightly lighter option, use half-and-half.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, but you can use a gluten-free flour substitute and ensure all other ingredients (including broth and soy sauce) are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a rich and elegant dish that brings deep flavor and satisfying texture to the table. With its golden pan-seared chicken, luxurious Parmesan cream sauce, and aromatic garlic base, it’s a versatile and reliable recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes or a side of vegetables, this dish delivers comfort and class in every bite.