There’s an undeniable allure in the kitchen when the garlic begins to sizzle and the fragrant aroma fills the air. I can’t help but feel a sense of coziness envelop me like a warm hug as I prepare my go-to weeknight indulgence: Creamy Garlic Chicken. This dish has become a beloved staple in my home, perfect for both busy evenings and those moments when I want to impress guests with minimal fuss.
What I adore most about this recipe is how effortlessly it channels restaurant-quality flavors while remaining accessible for even the most novice of cooks. With tender chicken bathed in a rich, velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce, it manages to strike that perfect balance of comfort and luxury—and the best part? Everything is prepared in just one pan.
If you’re fed up with the usual takeout or processed options, let me guide you through this simple yet satisfying meal that’s sure to become a hit at your dinner table. Grab your skillet, and let’s dive into the magic of Creamy Garlic Chicken!
Why is Creamy Garlic Chicken a must-have?
Deliciously Easy: This one-pan recipe makes cooking a breeze, eliminating the need for multiple dishes to wash.
Rich Flavor: The garlic-Parmesan sauce is a game-changer, delivering a robust taste that elevates your meal.
Customizable: Feel free to substitute protein or add your favorite vegetables; it’s versatile enough to fit any craving.
Time-Saving: Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for entertaining.
Crowd-Pleasing: With its creamy goodness, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds! If you’re looking for more meal ideas, check out my flavorful one-pan recipes for additional inspiration!
Creamy Garlic Chicken Ingredients
• Discover the key ingredients that make this dish a delicious success!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – Use boneless, skinless thighs for added juiciness and flavor.
- Butter – Adds a delicious richness to the sauce that pairs perfectly with garlic.
For the Sauce
- Garlic (10 whole cloves) – The star of the show; adjust to your garlic preference for more or less intensity.
- Flour (3 tablespoons) – Necessary for thickening the sauce to that perfect creamy consistency.
- Chicken Broth (2 ½ cups) – Builds the essential flavor base; opt for low-sodium to control salt levels.
- Beef Bouillon Cube – Enhances depth of flavor; better yet, use Better Than Bouillon for a richer taste.
- Soy Sauce (1 tsp) – Infuses an umami punch; can be swapped for Worcestershire sauce.
- Onion Powder (1 tsp) and Mustard Powder (½ tsp) – Seasoning agents that bring extra flavor; feel free to adjust.
- Dried Thyme (½ tsp) – Adds a lovely aromatic quality; fresh thyme works beautifully as a substitute.
For the Creaminess
- Heavy Cream (½ cup) – This is what creates that luxurious, creamy sauce; for a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can be used.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, optional) – Brings an extra layer of creaminess and depth; leaving it out makes the dish dairy-free.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken
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Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into thinner pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Dredge in flour and Parmesan for a delightful crust that locks in moisture.
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Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Once cooked, set aside on a plate.
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Caramelize the Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the whole garlic cloves. Cook until the garlic turns golden, about 6-7 minutes, releasing that wonderful aroma.
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Build the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the garlic in the skillet, stirring and cooking for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually add chicken broth while stirring, ensuring a smooth sauce forms.
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Add Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, then add Parmesan cheese if using. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy and luscious.
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Return the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet, allowing it to soak up the flavors. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes to heat through.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once finished, garnish the dish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides, like rice or crusty bread to soak up that delectable sauce.
Optional: Sprinkle with extra Parmesan for a richer flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this rich, velvety chicken with delightful sides that complement its luscious flavors.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture matches the sauce splendidly, soaking up every drop of its rich and garlicky goodness.
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Garlicky Green Beans: Sautéed in olive oil with a hint of garlic, these vibrant green beans add a fresh, crunchy element to your meal.
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Buttery Noodles: Soft, buttery noodles make for a fantastic canvas, perfectly capturing the creamy sauce and balancing its richness.
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Crispy Roasted Broccoli: The slight bitterness and crisper texture of roasted broccoli contrast beautifully with the creamy chicken, adding depth to your plate.
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Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice infused with herbs brings a light and fragrant touch, offering a delightful complement to the savory chicken.
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Crusty Bread: Nothing beats a slice of warm, crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce; it’s an irresistible addition to every bite.
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Light Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing bite that cuts through the richness of the dish.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the meal, its crisp notes harmonizing wonderfully with the creamy garlic flavors.
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Chocolate Mousse: Finish on a sweet note—silky chocolate mousse makes for a dreamy dessert that balances the savory richness of dinner.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keeping it sealed will maintain the rich flavors and creamy texture of your Creamy Garlic Chicken.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Ensure there’s minimal air in the container to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the microwave in 1-minute increments or cover and heat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, until warmed through.
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Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best results and to preserve the creamy integrity of the sauce.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Garlic Chicken delights are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the chicken by seasoning and dredging it in flour—and this can be done up to 24 hours in advance. For even more convenience, the garlic can be caramelized ahead of time as well, allowing you to refrigerate it until you’re ready to build your sauce. When it’s time to serve, simply warm the sauce gently on the stove and reintroduce the chicken to absorb all those fabulous flavors. This way, you ensure your meal is just as delicious and satisfying without any hassle, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic Chicken
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Chicken Thickness: Ensure even cooking by slicing chicken breasts to a consistent thinness. This helps avoid dry pieces and ensures they stay juicy.
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Garlic Variations: For a milder flavor, roast the garlic instead; it turns sweet and creamy, elevating the overall taste of your Creamy Garlic Chicken.
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Perfect Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a little longer until it thickens. Adding a cornstarch slurry can help achieve that desired creamy texture.
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Don’t Rush Flipping: If the chicken sticks to the pan while searing, give it time. It will naturally release when it’s correctly browned, preventing tearing.
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Storage Tips: Leftovers of Creamy Garlic Chicken can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor this dish to your taste buds!
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Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for skinless thighs for a juicier, flavor-packed option.
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Mushroom Medley: Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy twist, bringing depth and richness to each bite.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a luscious, dairy-free alternative that still delivers creaminess.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for a pop of color and nutrition.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or basil in place of thyme to give the sauce a fragrant, garden-fresh note.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a gentle heat that awakens your palate.
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Nutty Finish: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts over the finished dish for an irresistible crunch and nutty flavor.
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate a squeeze of lemon or lime juice just before serving to brighten and balance the rich sauce.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken for this creamy garlic chicken dish, look for boneless, skinless breasts for a leaner option or thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result. Ensure the chicken is fresh with a firm texture and a light pink color, avoiding any that have dark spots or unpleasant odors.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very good question! Store your creamy garlic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing to maintain its creamy texture and prevent condensation.
Can I freeze creamy garlic chicken?
Of course! To freeze, place the cooled creamy garlic chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best results.
What can I do if my sauce is too thin?
If your sauce turns out thinner than you want, don’t worry! You can thicken it by simmering it longer to reduce it. Alternatively, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce while it’s simmering. This will help achieve that creamy, luxurious texture!
Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can make this dish gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour substitute to thicken the sauce. For a dairy-free option, swap the heavy cream with a non-dairy cream alternative or use a combination of coconut milk and a dairy-free cheese. Always check ingredients for allergies and feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your tastes!
How long should I cook the chicken to ensure it’s done?
To guarantee perfectly cooked chicken, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken to check that it’s no longer pink inside. Cooking each side for about 4-5 minutes usually does the trick, depending on thickness.
Creamy Garlic Chicken: Your New Go-To One-Pan Wonder
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice the chicken breasts into thinner pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Dredge in flour and Parmesan for a delightful crust that locks in moisture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Once cooked, set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the whole garlic cloves. Cook until the garlic turns golden, about 6-7 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the garlic in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually add chicken broth while stirring.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, then add Parmesan cheese if using. Stir until the cheese is melted.
- Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet, cover, and cook for another 5 minutes to heat through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with sides like rice or crusty bread.