Go Back

Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken is tender chicken cooked in a rich garlic cream sauce.
It uses simple ingredients and one skillet for easy preparation.
Serve it with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables for a comforting dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American-inspired

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, about 1.3 lbs (600 g) total
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/4 cup 30 g all-purpose flour
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp 30 g butter, divided
  • 1 whole garlic bulb about 8–9 garlic cloves
  • 1 cup 250 ml chicken broth
  • 3/4 cup 180 ml heavy cream
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh chopped parsley optional

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the chicken: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut each chicken breast horizontally into two thinner cutlets. Alternatively, use thin-cut chicken breasts.
  • Season and coat: Season both sides of the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the flour over both sides and gently rub it in until the chicken is evenly coated.
  • Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a clean plate and cover to keep warm.
  • Prepare the garlic: While the chicken cooks, peel the garlic cloves. Carefully smash each clove using the side of a large chef's knife and the heel of your hand.
  • Sauté the garlic: Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the same skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the garlic cloves. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is lightly browned and fragrant.
  • Make the sauce: Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet. Add the garlic powder and stir well, scraping the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  • Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until it has reduced and thickened by approximately half. Taste and adjust the salt and black pepper as needed.
  • Finish the dish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and spoon the creamy garlic sauce over the top. Allow the chicken to heat through for a couple of minutes.
  • Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

Serve the chicken with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, roasted vegetables, rice, or pasta. The creamy sauce is especially delicious spooned over a simple starch that can absorb every bit of the garlic-rich sauce.
For a slightly different flavor, fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme can be added at the end. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, reduce the number of whole garlic cloves while keeping the garlic powder for a gentle background flavor.