Short Description

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a comforting skillet dish featuring tender chicken pieces smothered in a rich, garlic-infused cream sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this elegant yet straightforward meal delivers depth of flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the mellow sweetness of caramelized garlic with a luscious cream sauce, enveloping seared chicken in a luxurious coating. It’s quick to prepare, yet feels indulgent and satisfying—ideal for both casual dinners and serving to guests.

Ingredients

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

ingredients:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), halved or cut into cutlets
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper
Flour, for dredging
Olive oil
Unsalted butter
Fresh garlic, minced or whole cloves depending on preference
Chicken broth or stock
Heavy (or thick/double) cream
Parmesan cheese (grated) or Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon juice or white wine vinegar (optional, for brightness)

Directions

Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper, then gently dredge in flour, shaking off any excess.
Heat olive oil and a portion of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden and cooked through (approximately 5–6 minutes per side if thick; adjust if using cutlets). Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add remaining butter and garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds for minced garlic or a few minutes to caramelize whole cloves for a milder, sweeter flavor.
Stir in chicken broth and allow to reduce slightly. Then pour in the heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer, and let the sauce thicken. If using, stir in Parmesan cheese or Dijon mustard until combined.
Season the sauce to taste. Return the chicken to the pan, spooning sauce over it, and heat through for a couple more minutes.
Garnish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Serves 4 people.
Preparation time: Approximately 10 minutes.
Cooking time: Around 20–30 minutes, depending on chicken thickness and sauce reduction.
Total time: Roughly 30–40 minutes.

Variations

Herb‑infused: Add dried or fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil to the sauce for aromatic depth.
Mushroom addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic to introduce an earthy element.
Spicy twist: Include red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.
Lemon‑bright: Add a splash of lemon juice or zest to lighten and brighten the flavor.
Low‑carb or GF: Serve over cauliflower rice or use gluten‑free flour substitutes.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
To reheat, place in a pan over low heat and stir occasionally; add a small splash of broth, cream, or water if the sauce thickens or appears separated. Reheating gently helps maintain a smooth consistency. Alternatively, reheat in short intervals in a microwave, stirring between bursts.

FAQs

1. How do I prevent the sauce from breaking when reheating?

Reheat slowly over low heat and stir continuously. A splash of cream or warm milk can help re‑emulsify the sauce if it begins to separate.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes. Boneless, skinless thighs are a flavorful alternative—adjust cooking time slightly as they may require a few minutes longer to cook through.

3. Is there a dairy‑free version?

Absolutely. Swap butter for olive oil, and replace heavy cream with a non‑dairy cream alternative or coconut milk. The result will be slightly different in texture but still delicious.

4. What can I serve with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or crusty bread are excellent for soaking up the sauce. Steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli make balanced sides.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing creamy sauces may cause texture changes. It’s best to refrigerate and consume within a few days for optimal quality.

6. Is it okay to use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, garlic powder can add depth. Pairing it with whole or minced fresh garlic enhances the overall complexity of the garlic flavor.

7. How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

Allow the sauce to simmer uncovered to reduce. Alternatively, stir in a roux (flour and butter) or a slurry (cornstarch and water) to achieve desired thickness.

8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes—you can cook it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain sauce texture.

9. What if I don’t have Parmesan or Dijon mustard?

You can omit them. The sauce will still be creamy and flavorful. Parmesan adds richness, while Dijon gives subtle tang, but both are optional.

10. How do I get tender chicken and avoid drying it out?

Use a meat thermometer to remove chicken when it reaches 165 °F internally. Thinner cutlets also help cook evenly without drying out.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a delightful blend of simplicity and sophistication—rich creamy sauce, buttery garlic, and seared chicken come together in harmony. Quick to prepare yet deeply satisfying, it’s a versatile recipe adaptable to herbs, spice, or dietary needs. Whether you need a comforting family dinner or a meal to impress, this dish consistently delivers.