Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts are a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender, pan-seared chicken smothered in a rich, garlicky cream sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Serve it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breastssalt and pepperolive oilbuttergarlic (fresh, minced)chicken brothheavy creamParmesan cheeseItalian seasoningsfresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add chicken and sear for 5–7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt butter.

Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 2–3 minutes to deglaze the pan.

Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Add grated Parmesan and Italian seasonings, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.

Return chicken breasts to the pan, spooning sauce over the top. Simmer for an additional 3–5 minutes.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20–25 minutesTotal time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

Add mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra depth.

Use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier result.

Add a splash of white wine with the broth for added flavor.

Swap Parmesan with Gruyère or Asiago cheese for a twist.

Include red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second bursts until warmed through.Avoid boiling to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce may be slightly less rich and thick.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all ingredients (like broth and cheese) are gluten-free.

Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Note that cream-based sauces may separate when thawed.

What sides go well with this?

Mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, steamed veggies, or a simple green salad all pair wonderfully.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese substitute, though flavor and texture will vary.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Should I pound the chicken breasts first?

Yes, if they’re thick or uneven—this ensures even cooking.

Can I bake this instead?

Yes, sear the chicken first, then finish in a 375°F oven for 10–15 minutes with the sauce.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely—creamy, cheesy, and mild in flavor.

What herbs can I use instead of Italian seasoning?

Try thyme, oregano, basil, or a mix of your favorites.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts offer a satisfying combination of tender chicken and velvety garlic sauce that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With its simple prep and rich flavor, this dish is a dependable go-to for comforting dinners any night of the week.