If you are looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe is going to be your next favorite. It combines tender, perfectly seared chicken breasts with a rich, velvety sauce bursting with the bold flavors of caramelized garlic, Parmesan, and herbs. Every bite offers a delightful balance of creamy texture and savory depth that will make weeknight dinners feel special without complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients. Trust me, once you try this Creamy Garlic Chicken, it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each element is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and richness— from the Italian-seasoned chicken that forms the base to the luscious garlic-infused sauce that ties everything together.

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts: The main protein, sliced and pounded thin for quick, even cooking.
Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning that brings out the natural flavors of the chicken.
3 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that adds a Mediterranean touch.
⅓ cup flour: Used to create a delicate crust on the chicken and thicken the sauce.
4 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, shredded: Provides a nutty, salty kick in the flour dredge.
3 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for getting that beautiful golden sear on the chicken.
2 ½ cups chicken broth: Forms the savory liquid foundation of the sauce.
1 beef bouillon cube (or 1 tsp better than bouillon): Intensifies the umami depth of the sauce.
1 teaspoon low sodium soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce): Adds complexity and a subtle savory note.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings gentle sweetness and aroma.
½ teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a hint of earthiness and freshness.
½ teaspoon mustard powder: Adds a mild tang to balance the creaminess.
3 tablespoons butter: For richness and to help caramelize the garlic beautifully.
10 whole cloves garlic: The star ingredient that slowly softens into mellow, sweet pockets of flavor.
3 tablespoons flour: Helps thicken the sauce to perfectly cling to the chicken.
½ cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, luxurious texture that defines this Creamy Garlic Chicken.
½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional): Stirred into the sauce for extra cheesiness and depth.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before you dive in, whisk together the chicken broth, bouillon cube, soy sauce, onion powder, mustard powder, and thyme in a large measuring cup or bowl. This pre-mixed broth will make it easy to add flavor to your sauce later without interrupting your flow. Then, mix the flour and Parmesan cheese on a plate for dusting the chicken, and lay out the rest of your ingredients to keep everything within arm’s reach.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create thinner cutlets. Place them between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound using the textured side of a meat mallet until about half an inch thick. This ensures quick, even cooking and a tender bite. Season both sides generously with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Then lightly dredge each piece in the flour-Parmesan mixture, tapping off any excess. This coating helps develop a golden crust and adds flavor.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets in batches, avoiding overcrowding so each piece can brown flawlessly. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until you see a lovely golden crust. The searing locks in juices and flavor, creating the perfect foundation for your Creamy Garlic Chicken. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Reduce heat to medium-low and melt butter in the same skillet. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom—these bits give the sauce incredible depth. Add whole garlic cloves to the butter and let them cook gently for 6-7 minutes until they turn soft and golden, mellowing their sharpness into a caramelized sweetness. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for another 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, stirring constantly.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce and Cook the Chicken

Slowly pour in the prepared chicken broth mixture in small splashes, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Once combined, stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle boil before lowering the heat. Gradually mix in the Parmesan cheese if using, which thickens the sauce further and adds a creamy, savory punch. Return the chicken along with any juices back into the skillet. Spoon sauce over the top, cover partially, and let it simmer for 5 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to finish cooking perfectly tender.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh parsley sprinkled over the dish adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh herbaceousness that brightens the richness of the creamy garlic sauce elegantly. You can also consider a light grating of extra Parmesan cheese for a salty finish or a squeeze of lemon juice for a subtle tang that cuts through the creaminess.

Side Dishes

Creamy Garlic Chicken pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, which are excellent for soaking up the luscious sauce. Roasted green beans or sautéed asparagus provide a crisp, fresh contrast in texture and balance the richness nicely. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside buttery garlic bread or a simple pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the chicken and layering it over a bed of risotto or creamy polenta for a stunning plate that impresses at dinner parties. You can also serve the chicken whole with a drizzle of the sauce artistically spooned over top and garlic cloves scattered around, making each portion feel like a restaurant-quality entrée. Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for a visually delightful touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled to room temperature, store leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days, maintaining plenty of flavor and tenderness.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but to preserve the quality, it’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately if possible. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, squeezing out excess air, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop to avoid breaking the sauce’s creamy texture, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts with a lid or cover to keep moisture in. Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use garlic powder instead of whole garlic cloves?

While whole garlic cloves caramelize into sweet, mellow bites that shine in this recipe, garlic powder can be used in a pinch. However, it won’t provide the same texture or depth of flavor that the slow-cooked cloves do.

Is it necessary to pound the chicken breasts?

Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures the cutlets cook evenly and stay tender. Without this step, the thicker parts may dry out while the thinner parts finish cooking.

Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter option?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of cornstarch for thickening as a lighter alternative, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich or creamy. Heavy cream is key to achieving that luxurious texture.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano or Asiago can be good substitutes if you want a similar salty, cheesy flavor. Avoid milder cheeses as they won’t contribute the same nutty flavor and sauce thickness.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe uses all-purpose flour to coat the chicken and thicken the sauce, which contains gluten. You can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch, adjusting the quantity as needed to achieve the right texture.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe is one of those dishes that effortlessly brings comfort and elegance to the table. It’s approachable enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to share with friends or family on special occasions. The interplay of tender chicken, caramelized garlic, and rich Parmesan cream sauce is truly something to savor. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own—it’s bound to become a beloved classic in your home too!