Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe | Easy One-Pan Chicken in Rich Garlic Herb Sauce
This Creamy Garlic Chicken is a savory, one-skillet dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. Tender chicken breasts are pan-seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a luscious garlic cream sauce with herbs and a splash of broth or wine. The result is a velvety, restaurant-worthy meal that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread. Quick to make and irresistibly satisfying!
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal
Large skillet or sauté pan
Tongs or spatula
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Knife and cutting board
Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)
- 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
Optional Add-ins:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh spinach or mushrooms
- Splash of lemon juice or white wine
Season Chicken: Pat dry and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken until golden (4–5 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
Sauté Garlic: Lower heat to medium. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (1–2 minutes).
Make Sauce: Add chicken broth to deglaze pan. Stir in heavy cream and simmer until slightly thickened (5–7 minutes).
Return Chicken: Place chicken back in pan. Spoon sauce over and simmer until cooked through (8–10 minutes).
Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer—165°F is ideal.V
Serve: Garnish with parsley or Parmesan. Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
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Make-Ahead: Store in airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth.
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Freezing Tip: Freeze sauce separately for best texture.
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Health Tweaks: Use light cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
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Flavor Boosts: Try roasted garlic, Dijon mustard, or paprika for extra depth.
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Avoid Mistakes: Don’t overcook chicken or burn garlic. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Keyword Comfort Food, creamy chicken, easy chicken recipe, garlic sauce, one-pan dinner, Weeknight Meal