Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

If you are craving a dish that tastes like it was made by a seasoned chef but comes together effortlessly, this Creamy Garlic Chicken is exactly what you need. With tender chicken cutlets enveloped in a velvety, garlicky cream sauce, every bite offers a perfect balance of richness and brightness. It’s a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet surprisingly simple to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without breaking a sweat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may look straightforward, but each one plays an important role in giving the dish its amazing flavor and texture. From the golden sear on the chicken to the silky cream sauce infused with garlic, every element matters.

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cutting these into smaller cutlets ensures quick, even cooking and maximizes tender juiciness.
• Salt & pepper to taste: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken with just the right seasoning.
• Flour for dredging: Creates a delicate crust that helps thicken the sauce and adds a slight bite.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a flavorful base for searing the chicken to a beautiful golden brown.
• 2 tablespoons butter divided: Adds richness and helps brown the garlic for that irresistible aroma.
• 1 whole head garlic cloves peeled: The star ingredient – roasting garlic softens its sharpness and brings out a mellow, sweet depth.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or stock: Adds savory liquid to deglaze the pan and build the sauce’s foundation.
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice: Lifts the dish with a fresh zing, balancing the richness beautifully.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Reinforces the garlic flavor in the sauce for extra punch.
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream: Creates a luxuriously smooth, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to the chicken.
• Parsley chopped (optional): Adds a pop of green color and fresh herbal note to finish the dish.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by slicing each chicken breast in half lengthwise, giving you four thin cutlets that cook quickly and evenly. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper, then coat each piece lightly with flour. This simple step ensures a lovely crust forms during cooking and helps thicken the sauce later on.

Step 2: Sear Chicken Until Golden

Heat olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, add the chicken cutlets and cook them for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden, slightly crispy exterior. Once seared, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside for now. This step locks in the juices and builds flavor along the way.

Step 3: Brown the Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium or medium-low if you’re using a cast iron skillet, then add the remaining tablespoon of butter and whole peeled garlic cloves. Stir frequently and cook the garlic for 3 to 4 minutes until the cloves are soft and develop a gentle golden hue. This mellowed garlic infuses the sauce with that trademark savory sweetness.

Step 4: Build the Sauce Base

Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and sprinkle garlic powder over the garlic cloves. Let this mixture simmer and bubble for about 4 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce and intensify in flavor. This reduction concentrates the savory elements while preparing the sauce to creaminess.

Step 5: Add Cream and Finish Cooking

Pour in the heavy cream and gently stir everything together, making sure to coat the garlic cloves and deglaze the pan. Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Let the dish simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your liking and the chicken is cooked through. Optionally sprinkle chopped parsley before serving for a fresh, vibrant touch.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley is a lovely choice for garnishing Creamy Garlic Chicken. Not only does it add a pop of color that brightens the plate, but its verdant flavor also adds a subtle freshness that balances the rich, creamy sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with simple side dishes that can soak up the luscious sauce. Think creamy mashed potatoes, buttery pasta, or even steamed green beans for a lighter contrast. Crusty bread is also fantastic here, perfect for sopping up every last bit of that garlicky goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken over a bed of sautéed spinach or wilted kale to add color and texture. You could also plate the chicken atop fluffy rice pilaf or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal that looks as good as it tastes. Presentation is part of the joy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect choice for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover chicken and sauce separately or together in freezer-safe containers. For best texture, cool completely before freezing and consume within 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight to maintain the dish’s creamy consistency.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the Creamy Garlic Chicken gently on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally to keep the sauce smooth and prevent separation. Adding a splash of broth or cream while reheating can revive the sauce’s silky texture beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and stay very moist, making them a great alternative. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs are usually thicker.

Is it necessary to use a whole head of garlic?

The whole head of garlic softens during cooking and infuses the sauce with deep mellow flavor. Using less garlic is possible but may change the character of the dish. If you love garlic, stick to the recipe for the best experience.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese, but the sauce might be less rich and thick. Heavy cream gives the sauce its luscious texture you don’t want to miss.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, by swapping butter for olive oil and using coconut cream or a dairy-free cream substitute, you can enjoy a similar creamy effect while keeping it dairy-free. The garlic flavor will still shine!

How do I make sure the chicken stays tender?

Cutting the breasts into thin cutlets ensures quick cooking without drying out. Also, don’t rush the searing step and keep an eye on the cooking time so the chicken remains juicy and tender inside.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is a true gem that combines simplicity with incredible flavor and texture. It feels like a special occasion dish but comes together easily, making it a fantastic go-to recipe for treating yourself or your loved ones. Once you try it, it will surely become one of your favorites too!

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