Silky Garlic Chicken Recipe

Luscious Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe for Dinner Tonight

Weeknight dinners demand simplicity and incredible flavor, and this garlic chicken recipe delivers pure magic.

Tender chicken breasts bathed in a luscious garlic sauce make mouths water instantly.

The rich, velvety sauce coats each bite with savory goodness that feels like a restaurant-quality meal.

creamy and packed with robust garlic notes, this dish comes together faster than you can order takeout.

Fresh herbs and a splash of cream elevate the chicken from ordinary to extraordinary.

Herbs sprinkled on top add a bright, fresh finish that makes every forkful sing.

You’ll want to bookmark this recipe for those nights when comfort and deliciousness are your top priorities.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Calories: 550 kcal

Servings: 5

Creamy Garlic Chicken Ingredients List

For Chicken and Seasonings:
  • Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that becomes tender and juicy when pounded and seasoned perfectly.
  • Italian Seasoning: Aromatic herb blend that adds depth and complexity to the chicken's flavor profile.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential flavor enhancers that highlight the natural taste of the meat.
For Coating and Thickening:
  • All-Purpose Flour, Parmesan Cheese: Create a crispy, golden exterior that locks in moisture and adds a rich, cheesy crust.
For Sauce Components:
  • Chicken Broth: Provides a rich, savory base that intensifies the overall dish's depth.
  • Bouillon: Concentrated flavor booster that amplifies the chicken's natural taste.
  • Soy Sauce: Adds umami and complexity with its deep, salty undertones.
  • Onion Powder, Mustard Powder, Thyme: Unique spice combination that creates a layered, sophisticated flavor profile.
For Sauce Liquids and Enrichment:
  • Butter: Creates a silky, luxurious texture and adds richness to the sauce.
  • Garlic: Transforms into sweet, caramelized nuggets of intense flavor.
  • Heavy Cream: Provides a luxurious, velvety smooth consistency to the sauce.
  • Olive Oil: Helps create a perfect golden sear on the chicken with a subtle fruity undertone.

Equipment to Cook Creamy Garlic Chicken

  • Meat Mallet: Perfect for pounding chicken to an even thickness.
  • Large Skillet: Essential for searing chicken and creating the creamy sauce.
  • Spatula: Helps scrape up delicious browned bits and stir sauce smoothly.
  • Whisk: Ensures flour and liquids blend without lumps.
  • Freezer Bag or Saran Wrap: Helps protect chicken while pounding.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Guarantees precise ingredient amounts.
  • Cutting Board: Provides a clean surface for slicing chicken.
  • Sharp Knife: Needed for slicing chicken breasts into thinner pieces.

Directions for Creamy Garlic Chicken Perfection

  • Chicken Preparation

Slice chicken breasts into thinner pieces, creating 2-3 slices per breast. Gently flatten the meat to ensure even cooking.

  • Seasoning Magic

Sprinkle Italian herbs, salt, and pepper over the chicken. Coat each piece with a light dusting of flour and cheese mixture.

  • Searing Perfection

Heat a skillet with olive oil until it shimmers. Cook chicken until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Set aside the beautifully browned pieces.

  • Sauce Creation

In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until it turns a rich golden color. Whisk in flour to create a smooth base.

  • Liquid Transformation

Pour in chicken broth gradually, stirring constantly. Add cream and let the sauce bubble and thicken. Stir in Parmesan cheese for extra richness.

  • Final Harmony

Return chicken to the pan, nestling the pieces into the creamy sauce. Cover and let simmer, allowing flavors to meld together for a few minutes.

Tips for Creamy Garlic Chicken Sauce

  • Replace chicken breasts with thighs, turkey cutlets, or pork tenderloin for a delightful twist on the classic recipe.
  • Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, basil, or oregano to add depth and freshness to the sauce.
  • Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to give the dish a subtle kick of heat.
  • Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a healthier alternative that still maintains a creamy texture.
  • Pound chicken evenly to ensure consistent cooking and prevent dry edges.
  • Watch garlic carefully while caramelizing to avoid bitter flavors and potential burning.
  • Whisk continuously when adding broth to prevent lumps and create a smooth, silky sauce.
  • Let chicken sit for a few minutes after cooking to help retain moisture and distribute flavors evenly.

Plate Ideas for Creamy Garlic Chicken

  • Pair with Savory Sides
  • Serve creamy garlic chicken over fluffy white rice or buttery mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. The starch will complement the rich, creamy texture perfectly.
  • Garnish with Fresh Herbs
  • Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top to add a bright, green pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the sauce.
  • Wine Pairing Perfection
  • Complement the creamy, garlicky chicken with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. The wine's acidity will balance the dish's creamy, indulgent profile and enhance the overall dining experience.
  • Create a Complete Meal
  • Add a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans to create a balanced, nutritious meal that provides additional texture and nutritional value alongside the tender chicken.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerate Strategically: Store leftover creamy garlic chicken in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days to maintain optimal flavor and safety.
  • Freeze for Future Meals: Wrap individual chicken portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Freeze up to 2 months for quick weeknight dinners. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheat with Care: Warm chicken gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to prevent sauce separation. Add a splash of chicken broth to restore creamy texture. Microwave as a last resort, stirring halfway through to distribute heat evenly.
  • Meal Prep Magic: Prepare chicken and sauce separately for easier storage. Keep sauce and chicken in different containers to maintain crispy chicken texture. Combine just before serving for the freshest taste.
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Silky Garlic Chicken Recipe

Silky Garlic Chicken Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Succulent creamy garlic chicken delivers comfort with French-inspired flavors from Provence. Mediterranean herbs and rich sauce create elegant simplicity that home cooks can easily master.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 10 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 ½ cups (591 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 beef bouillon cube
  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • 34 tbsps olive oil
  • 3 tbsps unsalted butter
  • ½ cup (50 g) Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 4 tbsps Parmesan cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
  • 3 tbsps flour
  • 3 tsps Italian seasonings
  • 1 tsp low sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp mustard powder
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Flavor Blend Preparation: Whisk chicken broth, bouillon, soy sauce, onion powder, mustard powder, and thyme in a container to create a robust liquid base.
  2. Coating Creation: Mix flour and Parmesan cheese on a wide plate for a uniform seasoned breading.
  3. Chicken Preparation: Slice chicken breasts into thin, uniform cutlets and flatten to 1/2 inch thickness between plastic wrap, using a meat mallet to ensure even cooking.
  4. Seasoning Application: Generously season chicken slices with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, then coat thoroughly in the flour-Parmesan mixture, shaking off excess.
  5. Searing Process: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken until golden-brown, approximately 4-5 minutes per side, then transfer to a temporary plate.
  6. Sauce Foundation: In the same skillet, melt butter and caramelize minced garlic for 6-7 minutes, capturing the browned chicken bits for intense flavor.
  7. Sauce Development: Whisk flour into garlic butter, creating a light golden roux, then gradually incorporate the prepared chicken broth mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
  8. Creamy Finalization: Add heavy cream, bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat, and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  9. Final Cooking: Return seared chicken to the skillet, coat with creamy sauce, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes to ensure thorough heating and flavor infusion.

Notes

  • Slice Strategically: Cut chicken breasts evenly to guarantee consistent cooking and prevent dry or undercooked sections.
  • Prevent Breading Mishaps: Pat chicken dry before coating to help flour mixture adhere perfectly and create a crispy golden exterior.
  • Manage Heat Carefully: Medium-high heat is crucial for achieving beautiful golden-brown chicken without burning the delicate coating.
  • Sauce Texture Tip: Whisk sauce continuously to prevent lumps and ensure a silky, smooth consistency that clings beautifully to the chicken.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 36 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 31 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 150 mg
Mia Reynolds

Mia Reynolds

Food Writer & Home Cooking Specialist

Expertise

Easy Home Baking, Recipe Writing and Storytelling, Local and Seasonal Ingredients, Baking for Beginners

Education

New England Culinary Institute (NECI), Montpelier, Vermont

  • Certificate: Baking and Pastry Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Hands-on baking skills, pastry basics, and creating delicious, approachable baked goods.

Community College of Vermont, Winooski, Vermont

  • Degree: Certificate in Food and Beverage Management
  • Focus: Essential knowledge of recipe development, ingredient sourcing, and food business basics.

Mia Reynolds fell in love with baking as a teenager experimenting in her family kitchen. Her passion took her to New England Culinary Institute, where she learned practical pastry techniques, and later to Community College of Vermont to deepen her understanding of food management.

Mia combines clear, simple baking instructions with heartwarming stories, making home baking approachable for everyone.

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