This Creamy Garlic Chicken is a rich, comforting dish featuring tender, golden-seared chicken breasts nestled in a velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce. Caramelized whole garlic cloves lend a subtle sweetness and depth, making this one-skillet meal an ideal choice for cozy dinners or special occasions.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the simplicity of a one-pan meal with the elegance of a restaurant-quality dish. The whole garlic cloves caramelize to a mellow sweetness, infusing the sauce with a gourmet flavor that isn’t overpowering. The creamy Parmesan sauce is perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes or soaking up with crusty bread. Plus, it’s a dish that impresses guests yet is straightforward enough for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 teaspoons Italian seasoning
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
4 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
3 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

2½ cups chicken broth
1 beef bouillon cube (or 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon)
1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce)
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon mustard powder
3 tablespoons butter
10 whole garlic cloves
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken:
- Slice each chicken breast into 2-3 thinner pieces.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour and shredded Parmesan cheese.
- Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Caramelize the Garlic:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the whole garlic cloves and cook for 6-7 minutes until they are softened and golden.
Make the Sauce:
- Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and butter, whisking to combine.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add the chicken broth, beef bouillon, soy sauce, onion powder, thyme, and mustard powder, stirring continuously.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Finish the Dish:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Cover and simmer for 5 minutes to heat through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Mushroom Addition: I like to sauté mushrooms separately and stir them into the sauce at the end for added depth and texture.
Herb Substitutions: Fresh herbs like rosemary or basil can be used in place of dried thyme for a different flavor profile.
Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, I sometimes substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well. Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave at 50% power until warmed through, or thaw overnight and reheat in a covered casserole dish at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.

FAQs

How can I prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan?

I ensure the skillet is properly heated and the oil is shimmering before adding the chicken. If the chicken sticks, I wait a bit longer; it usually releases naturally once a crust has formed.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. They may require a slightly longer cooking time to reach the appropriate internal temperature.

What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken?

I often serve this dish with mashed potatoes and roasted green beans. It’s also delicious over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Is it necessary to use whole garlic cloves?

Using whole cloves allows the garlic to caramelize and impart a subtle sweetness without overpowering the dish. If I prefer a stronger garlic flavor, I might mince a few cloves to add alongside the whole ones.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the dish as directed, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, I reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite. With its rich sauce and tender chicken, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. I love how the caramelized garlic adds depth without being overpowering, and the versatility of the dish means I can pair it with a variety of sides to suit any meal.