Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe | Easy One-Pan Chicken in Rich Garlic Herb Sauce

Introduction to Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken is the ultimate comfort food for garlic lovers. Rich, velvety, and deeply flavorful, this dish combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce that’s hard to resist. Inspired by beloved recipes from Salt & Lavender, Allrecipes, Ask Chef Dennis, Just Easy Recipes, Taste of Home, and Dinners, Dishes and Desserts, it’s a modern classic that’s both indulgent and easy to make.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner, planning a romantic date night, or prepping meals for the week ahead, this one-pan wonder fits the bill. The aroma of sautéed garlic and simmering cream fills the kitchen with warmth, while the simple ingredients make it accessible for any home cook. Pair it with mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a satisfying meal that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together effortlessly in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe is a weeknight hero—ready in just 30 minutes and requiring only one pan for cleanup. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you crave something hearty and homemade without the hassle. The sauce is rich and garlicky, coating each piece of chicken in a blanket of creamy goodness that’s both comforting and crave-worthy.

The balance of flavors—savory chicken, aromatic garlic, and smooth cream—makes it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Plus, it’s versatile: serve it over mashed potatoes for a cozy meal, toss it with pasta for a creamy twist, or spoon it atop fluffy rice for a simple yet satisfying dinner.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort. And the best part? It’s easy to customize with your favorite add-ins or swaps, making it a staple you’ll come back to again and again.

Ingredient Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need to make Creamy Garlic Chicken:

Main Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 6–8 garlic cloves (minced or whole)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients form the base of the dish, delivering rich flavor and creamy texture. The garlic is the star—use fresh cloves for the most robust taste.

Optional Add-ins:

• Grated Parmesan cheese (for extra richness)
• Fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms (for added texture and nutrients)
• A splash of lemon juice or white wine (to brighten the sauce)

These additions can elevate the dish and tailor it to your preferences. Parmesan adds depth, spinach brings color and freshness, and lemon or wine cuts through the richness with a hint of acidity.

Tip: Always use fresh garlic over pre-minced for maximum flavor impact. It makes a noticeable difference in aroma and taste, especially in a garlic-forward dish like this.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken:

1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear until golden brown on both sides (about 4–5 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant—be careful not to burn it.
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Return Chicken to Pan: Nestle the seared chicken back into the sauce. Spoon sauce over each piece and simmer for another 8–10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This guarantees juicy, safe-to-eat chicken.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Plate the chicken with your favorite side—mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice—and drizzle with extra sauce.

Tip: For an extra silky sauce, stir in a handful of grated Parmesan before serving.

Variations & Substitutions

Creamy Garlic Chicken is endlessly adaptable. Here are some ways to tweak it to suit your dietary needs or flavor preferences:

Dietary Swaps:

• Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a rich, non-dairy alternative.
• Low-Carb: Serve with cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles instead of traditional starches.

Protein Alternatives:

• Swap chicken with shrimp, turkey cutlets, or tofu for a different take. Each protein pairs beautifully with the creamy garlic sauce.

Flavor Twists:

• Add a spoonful of Dijon mustard or a dash of paprika for a subtle kick.
• Use roasted garlic instead of fresh for a deeper, caramelized flavor.

Bonus Add-ins:

• Toss in spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for color, texture, and a hint of sweetness.

These variations allow you to reinvent the dish while keeping its comforting essence intact.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment—this recipe is forgiving and flavorful no matter how you spin it.