Tender pan-seared chicken is coated in a rich garlic cream sauce that is silky, flavorful, and ideal for spooning over mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or crusty bread. The garlic becomes mellow and slightly sweet as it cooks, creating a luxurious sauce that transforms simple pantry staples into an impressive meal.
Main Essence of This Dish
The heart of this recipe is the balance between golden seared chicken and a creamy garlic sauce made directly in the same skillet. Browning the chicken first creates flavorful bits in the pan that enrich the sauce, while fresh garlic, butter, chicken broth, and cream come together to create a smooth and satisfying finish. The result is a comforting one-pan meal that feels elegant enough for guests yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
Recipe Information
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Course | Main Course |
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into 4 thin cutlets
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 8 to 10 garlic cloves, minced or finely sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Additional salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Also Read: Chicken Taco Soup Recipe
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry and slice each breast horizontally to create thin cutlets. Season both sides with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and lightly coat all sides.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm.
Step 3: Cook the Garlic
Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the same skillet. Stir in the garlic and cook gently for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Avoid browning the garlic too much, as it can become bitter.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the broth simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the heavy cream and garlic powder, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes smooth.
Step 5: Simmer Until Creamy
Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 5 minutes. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Return the Chicken
Place the chicken back into the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through and the flavors have combined.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken and serve immediately with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or warm bread.
Also Read: Black Forest Cake Recipe
Serving Suggestions
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Butter rice or pilaf
- Fettuccine or linguine pasta
- Roasted broccoli or asparagus
- Crusty artisan bread
- Steamed green beans
Storage Tips
Store leftover creamy garlic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating.
Also Read: Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 465 kcal |
| Protein | 37 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fat | 31 g |
| Saturated Fat | 15 g |
| Cholesterol | 155 mg |
| Sodium | 610 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
Also Read: German Potato Salad Recipe
Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Chicken
- Use freshly minced garlic for the richest flavor.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet while searing the chicken.
- Allow the sauce to simmer gently rather than boil rapidly.
- Use heavy cream for the smoothest and most stable sauce.
- Let the chicken rest in the sauce for a few minutes before serving.


