Creamy Garlic Chicken is just the kind of meal that brings comfort and a bit of elegance to your dinner table. Tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, creamy garlic sauce that’s full of buttery goodness and a hint of herbs. The sauce clings to the chicken perfectly, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.
I love making this dish when I want something that feels special but is still super easy to pull together. The garlic sauce has such a cozy warmth that it makes the whole kitchen smell amazing, and it’s hard not to sneak a taste before dinner is even ready. I usually like to add a squeeze of lemon at the end to brighten it up just a little.
My favorite way to serve Creamy Garlic Chicken is over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or alongside some steamed veggies. The sauce is perfect for spooning over everything on the plate. It’s a dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends because it hits that spot between simple and special every time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: These are great for this dish because they cook evenly and absorb flavors well. If you prefer dark meat, boneless thighs work too for a juicier option.
Garlic: Both minced and whole garlic cloves add layers of flavor. If fresh garlic is unavailable, garlic powder can be a quick substitute but fresh tastes best.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce silky and rich. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream if dairy-free.
Parmesan cheese: It brings a nice salty depth. Pecorino Romano or Asiago are good alternatives if you want a slightly different twist.
Butter and olive oil: Butter adds richness while olive oil helps with the initial sear. You can swap olive oil for avocado oil for higher smoke point, or use all butter for a creamier taste.
How Can I Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce Smooth and Flavorful?
The sauce is the heart of this recipe, so it’s key to get it just right.
- Sauté the garlic and onions gently—don’t rush to avoid burning and bitterness.
- Use the pan drippings after cooking chicken when adding broth to capture all that flavor.
- Simmer the broth before adding cream to reduce and concentrate flavors.
- Add cream and cheese slowly, stirring constantly to avoid lumps and help the sauce thicken evenly.
- Finish the sauce by letting the chicken simmer in it so the flavors all blend beautifully.
These steps help get a smooth, rich sauce that clings perfectly to the chicken, making each bite full of creamy garlic goodness.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I prefer a big one so I can sear the chicken and make the sauce in the same pan without crowding it.
- Cooking tongs or a spatula – makes flipping the chicken easy and keeps your hands clean.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps you add ingredients precisely for the best flavor.
- Knives and chopping board – essential for prepping garlic, onion, and parsley.
- Whisk or spoon – for stirring the sauce until it’s smooth and creamy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey cutlets or pork chops for a different meat; they cook just as well in this sauce.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and earthy flavor.
- Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat or use smoked paprika for smoky notes.
- Instead of Parmesan, try crumbled feta or shredded mozzarella for different cheesy flavors.
Creamy Garlic Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (plus 4-5 whole cloves peeled)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: fresh rosemary or fresh thyme for extra garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 35 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weekday dinner but tasty enough to impress any time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Make the Garlic Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. When melted, add the minced garlic, whole garlic cloves, and chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and soft. Stir in the dried thyme.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let this simmer for about 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Next, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
3. Combine and Finish:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over them and simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to mix and the chicken to heat through.
Before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley and optional fresh herbs over the dish for a fresh, colorful touch.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for a better sear.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the chicken and sauce, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slowly on the stovetop or microwave to prevent the sauce from separating; stir occasionally for even heating.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free version, but the sauce may be less rich and thick. Adjust cooking time slightly to achieve desired consistency.
