If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug from your kitchen, this Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It captures the essence of perfectly cooked chicken breasts, coated in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce that’s rich, comforting, and just bursting with flavor. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is straightforward but delivers a taste that feels indulgent and homemade. Each bite offers a silky sauce with a gentle tang from Dijon mustard and a cheesy parmesan finish that makes it impossible to resist. Get ready to fall in love with a dish that’s as simple as it is satisfying!

A white bowl contains three layers of food. On the left side, there is a smooth, creamy pale yellow layer of mashed potatoes with a small pool of melted butter and a sprinkle of black pepper on top. To the right of the mashed potatoes, there is a browned, well-cooked chicken piece covered in a light beige creamy sauce with visible black pepper specks and small green herb pieces sprinkled over it. Above the chicken, there is a bunch of bright green, glossy cooked green beans neatly stacked. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface with a silver knife and fork placed on the right side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe lies in a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor and the perfect texture. From the tender chicken breasts to the bold garlic and creamy parmesan, every item on this list is essential to make this dish truly shine.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: When cut into steaks, they cook evenly and soak up the amazing sauce perfectly.
1 tsp salt: Enhances all flavors and seasons the chicken perfectly.
¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth.
1 tsp sweet paprika: Brings a mild smokiness and beautiful color.
1 tsp onion powder: Provides warmth and enhances savory notes.
1 tsp dried thyme: Lends an earthy, herbal charm.
¼ cup (35 g) plain (all-purpose) flour: Creates a delicate coating that helps thicken the sauce later.
1 tbsp olive oil: The perfect base for a golden sear on the chicken.
2 tbsp unsalted butter (divided): Adds richness both to cooking the chicken and the luscious sauce.
1 tbsp freshly minced garlic: The star that infuses the sauce with irresistible aroma and flavor.
½ cup (125 ml) chicken stock: Builds a savory foundation for the sauce.
300 ml (10 fl oz) thickened (heavy) cream: Gives the dish its signature creamy texture and indulgence.
1 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tanginess that lifts the flavors beautifully.
½ cup (50 g) grated parmesan: Brings nutty, cheesy richness to the sauce.
Sea salt flakes and freshly cracked black pepper: For final seasoning and seasoning to taste.
Mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or pasta: Great options for soaking up that glorious sauce.
Steamed greens: To add color and freshness on the plate.
1 tbsp finely chopped flat-leaf parsley: A bright, fresh finish.
Lemon wedges: A spritz of citrus to brighten every bite.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Coat the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, sweet paprika, onion powder, and dried thyme. This blend of spices builds an irresistible base flavor that makes every bite pop. Next, press each piece into the flour, coating them evenly—this step is crucial as it helps to create a delicate crust and later thickens the sauce beautifully.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a large, deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes until just cooked through, turning once halfway to get a golden crust on both sides. Getting this sear right is vital—it locks in juiciness and sets the stage for that creamy sauce.

Step 3: Set Chicken Aside

Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate. This little pause lets you focus on crafting the sauce without overcooking the chicken, ensuring it remains tender and juicy.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same pan, add the second tablespoon of butter until melted. Stir in freshly minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned—that garlic flavor is essential for this Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe! Pour in the chicken stock, letting it simmer until reduced by at least half; this intensifies the flavors. Then, stir in the thickened cream and Dijon mustard, lowering the heat to medium and letting the sauce gently simmer for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Return Chicken and Add Parmesan

Stir the grated parmesan cheese into the silky sauce until it melts and blends smoothly. Season with sea salt flakes and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Carefully nestle the chicken back into the pan and warm through for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing it to soak up all the garlicky creaminess.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Your Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed! This final touch combines everything into a dish that’s rich, comforting, and utterly satisfying.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Brighten your plate by sprinkling freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley over the chicken. The herb not only adds a pop of vibrant green but also a fresh, slightly peppery bite that balances the rich sauce. Don’t forget the lemon wedges—squeezing a bit of citrus juice just before eating adds a lovely brightness that cuts through the creamy texture beautifully.

Side Dishes

Mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or even a bed of pasta make perfect canvases for this delicious sauce. Their mild flavors soak up every bit of the Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe’s goodness. Pairing it with steamed greens, such as broccoli, green beans, or asparagus, introduces a fresh, crunchy contrast that lifts the meal, making it feel balanced and wholesome.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, arrange the chicken steaks neatly on a platter, spoon over generous amounts of the creamy sauce, then garnish with parsley and lemon wedges. You can also layer the chicken atop a creamy risotto or alongside garlic butter sautéed mushrooms for an extra touch of indulgence. Serving it family-style with crusty bread to mop up the sauce is always a crowd-pleaser too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce tends to thicken when chilled, but reheating gently will bring back its lovely creaminess without compromising the chicken’s tenderness.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the chicken and sauce separately for best results. Use freezer-safe containers and keep them for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers slowly over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of cream or chicken stock to loosen it up. Take care not to overcook the chicken during reheating to keep it tender and juicy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and a slightly deeper flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs can be thicker or have more fat, so cook until fully done and tender.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter with olive oil or dairy-free margarine, and use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative instead of heavy cream. For the parmesan, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead and refrigerate it separately. Reheat it gently before adding the cooked chicken for a quick weeknight meal. Just be sure to stir well as the sauce may thicken when chilled.

What type of garlic works best?

Freshly minced garlic is key for that vibrant flavor and aroma. Pre-minced garlic from a jar can work in a pinch but tends to be less pungent and flavorful.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Make sure to not overcook the chicken during the searing stage. Chicken breasts cook quickly, and resting them after cooking helps retain moisture. The creamy sauce also keeps the chicken tender when combined at the end.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration on a plate without any fuss. It’s creamy, flavorful, and comforting all at once—perfect for cozy family dinners or when you want to treat yourself to something special. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become a staple in your recipe rotation, just like it has in mine. Happy cooking!