Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs turn out wonderfully juicy and flavorful. Just adjust cooking time as needed since they may take a minute or two longer to cook through.

Can I make this in advance for meal prep?

Yes, this is a fantastic make-ahead recipe. You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead, cool, and refrigerate. The flavors actually develop and deepen by the next day. Just reheat gently before serving.

Is it necessary to use whole garlic cloves, or can I use minced garlic?

Whole cloves are best for this recipe they get sweet and mellow, creating that signature flavor. Minced garlic cooks too quickly and might burn. If you’re short on whole cloves, slice them thick for similar (though not quite as rich) results.

Can I cut down on the cream for a lighter version?

Certainly! Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk (though the sauce will be a bit thinner and less rich). You’ll still have a lovely, lighter sauce add a teaspoon of cornstarch to the broth for extra body if needed.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe your new go-to for those weeknights when you crave a little luxury without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfectly golden chicken, bathed in a dreamy garlic-infused cream sauce, comes together effortlessly. The secret? Everyday ingredients with serious crave-worthy results: we’re talking tender chicken, velvety sauce, and rich, savory flavors that taste as if you’ve been cooking all day. By the time it hits your table (in under an hour, start to finish!), you’ll be convinced this is the meal to turn any hectic night into something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Weeknight Wonder: This dish is surprisingly simple from prep to plate no complicated steps, just classic techniques that work every single time.
Irresistibly Flavorful: The sauce is decadently creamy, loaded with sweet roasted garlic, and a hint of umami from Parmesan and a whisper of soy sauce. It’s honestly the coziest combination.
Family Favorite: Even picky eaters can’t resist! The tender chicken and luscious sauce win over kids and grown-ups alike.
Foolproof Technique: Even if you’re not an experienced cook, you’ll get beautifully cooked chicken and a perfect sauce with just a little attention.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what transforms humble kitchen staples into restaurant-worthy Creamy Garlic Chicken:

Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless breasts for easy, quick cooking. Thinned and pounded for even browning and extra tenderness.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for bringing out flavor season generously.
Italian Seasoning: A quick way to add depth and a little herbal lift without extra effort.
Flour: For dredging chicken essential for that irresistible golden crust and also helps thicken the sauce later.
Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Gives both the chicken and sauce a rich, nutty, slightly salty flavor.
Olive Oil: High-heat friendly and adds just the right hint of fruitiness as the base for browning.
Chicken Broth: The backbone of the sauce a flavorful liquid to marry everything together.
Beef Bouillon Cube or Better Than Bouillon: Adds savory depth and boosts the sauce’s “slow-simmered” taste in seconds.
Low Sodium Soy Sauce (or Worcestershire Sauce): A touch builds umami don’t skip, it seriously elevates the sauce.
Onion Powder & Dried Thyme: Boosts savory notes and adds herbal warmth.
Mustard Powder: Balances the richness with subtle tang; really rounds out the flavors.
Butter: For caramelizing garlic and building a luscious, silky sauce.
Whole Garlic Cloves: The star! They get soft, toasted, and sweet—truly magic for the sauce.
Heavy Cream: For that signature velvety texture and richness.
Extra Parmesan Cheese (Optional): Stir in for even more cheesy, creamy flavor.
Optional Add-Ins: Try mushrooms for earthiness or finish with fresh parsley for color and a fresh bite.

Tip: Prepping everything ahead makes the cooking process stress-free and swift.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Ready to put your own spin on it? There are tons of ways to make this dish your own:

Use Thighs: Swap in boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Mix in Veggies: Sauté mushrooms, baby spinach, or even peas and stir into the sauce before serving.
Go Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for dredging and thickening.
Dairy-Free Version: Opt for unsweetened, plain coconut cream and a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.
Heat Lovers: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for gentle warmth.
Protein Protein: Stir in cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky layer.
Make it Lighter: Use half-and-half instead of cream (the sauce will be more delicate).

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken

Let’s get straight to the good stuff—here’s how you’ll make this speedy, knockout meal:

Step 1: Mix & Prep

First, combine chicken broth, bouillon, soy sauce, and your seasonings in a measuring cup. This makes it a breeze to add to the pan later. Next, set up your dredging plate by mixing flour and Parmesan together.

Step 2: Prep the Chicken

Slice your chicken breasts horizontally for thin, even pieces. Pound them under plastic wrap until they’re ½ inch thick (trust me, this guarantees juicy, evenly cooked chicken). Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning; then dredge each piece in the flour-Parmesan mix. Shake off any excess.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat up the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. When hot, add chicken in batches. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until you’ve got a golden crust. Don’t fuss—leave them undisturbed to get the best browning. Once they’re done, set aside. (Keep those flavorful bits in the pan!)

Step 4: Start the Sauce

Reduce the heat and melt butter in the same skillet, scraping up the tasty browned bits. Add whole garlic cloves and gently caramelize them until golden, about 6-7 minutes. Their sweetness will infuse the sauce.

Step 5: Thicken & Build Flavor

Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly, and cook for a minute or two to remove any raw taste. Next, slowly pour in your prepared broth mixture, stirring or whisking constantly to prevent lumps.

Step 6: Creamy Finish

Pour in the heavy cream and bring everything just to a simmer. Gradually add extra Parmesan, stirring until it melts in for that signature creamy texture.

Step 7: Simmer the Chicken

Place the browned chicken (and any juices) back into the skillet. Spoon the luscious sauce over each piece, cover partially, and let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes. The sauce will finish thickening and the chicken becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley. Get ready for compliments!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Get a deep golden crust on the chicken it maximizes flavor in both the meat and sauce.
Don’t overcook the garlic; you want it golden and soft, not bitter.
Always add broth gradually, whisking, to keep the sauce creamy and lump-free.
Let the chicken rest in the sauce for maximum tenderness and flavor.
Parmesan matters: Use freshly grated if you can for best melting and flavor.
Save time by prepping all sauce ingredients before you start this recipe moves quickly!

How to Serve

Creamy Garlic Chicken begs for sides that soak up every drop of sauce:

Mashed Potatoes: Absolutely classic fluffy and perfect for sopping up the velvety sauce.
Buttered Noodles or Pasta: Toss with a bit of olive oil; simple and perfect.
Roasted Green Beans or Broccoli: Bright, fresh greens complement the richness.
Crusty Bread: Essential for mopping up that extra cream and garlic.
Over Rice or Polenta: For a cozy, stick-to-your-ribs meal.

Garnish with extra parsley or even a little lemon zest for a hit of freshness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers? Lucky you! This chicken stores beautifully. Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container; refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Creamy Garlic Chicken actually freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently either covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 20 minutes) or in the microwave on half power to avoid curdling the sauce. If the sauce thickens, whisk in a splash of milk or broth to loosen.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs turn out wonderfully juicy and flavorful. Just adjust cooking time as needed since they may take a minute or two longer to cook through.
Can I make this in advance for meal prep?

Yes, this is a fantastic make-ahead recipe. You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead, cool, and refrigerate. The flavors actually develop and deepen by the next day. Just reheat gently before serving.
Is it necessary to use whole garlic cloves, or can I use minced garlic?

Whole cloves are best for this recipe they get sweet and mellow, creating that signature flavor. Minced garlic cooks too quickly and might burn. If you’re short on whole cloves, slice them thick for similar (though not quite as rich) results.
Can I cut down on the cream for a lighter version?

Certainly! Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk (though the sauce will be a bit thinner and less rich). You’ll still have a lovely, lighter sauce add a teaspoon of cornstarch to the broth for extra body if needed.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason this Creamy Garlic Chicken finds its way into so many home cooks’ weekly rotations. It’s quick, endlessly adaptable, and above all ridiculously delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this is one meal guaranteed to make any evening special. Go ahead and give it a try you’ll be amazed how such a simple recipe delivers such bold, comforting flavors with minimal fuss!