Savory garlic chicken in a creamy sauce is a dish that balances rich, comforting flavors with the savory punch of garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe features tender chicken breasts enveloped in a luscious, creamy garlic sauce that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare. It’s one of those recipes that’s sure to become a family favorite, offering the perfect combination of simplicity and luxury.
The magic of this dish lies in the sauce—garlic-infused, silky, and comforting. Whether you’re a garlic lover or just looking to try something new, this creamy garlic chicken recipe is a must-try.
Why You’ll Love Savory Garlic Chicken in a Creamy Sauce
This recipe is more than just a tasty meal. It’s about the experience. The richness of the sauce and the tenderness of the chicken make for a satisfying combination. Here’s why you’ll love it:
Quick and easy: The dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
Flavorful: Fresh garlic, garlic powder, and heavy cream come together to create a rich and flavorful sauce that’s not overpowering.
Versatile: It pairs well with almost anything—mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables. The possibilities are endless.
Additionally, this recipe is customizable to fit various dietary preferences and tastes. For those looking for a lighter option, you can substitute some ingredients, and for those looking to elevate the dish further, consider adding additional seasonings or garnishes.
Ingredients for Savory Garlic Chicken in a Creamy Sauce
This dish uses a few basic ingredients, but the flavor profile is anything but basic. Here’s what you’ll need:
Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless are the best choices for quick and even cooking.
Flour – Helps create a slight crust on the chicken and thickens the sauce.
Olive Oil and Butter – Used for sautéing the chicken and garlic, adding richness.
Garlic – A full head of garlic, with the cloves peeled, is used for maximum garlic flavor. Both fresh garlic and garlic powder are included to create depth of flavor.
Chicken Broth – Forms the savory base for the sauce.
Lemon Juice – Adds a touch of acidity to balance the richness.
Heavy Cream – The base of the creamy sauce that gives the dish its luxurious texture.
Parsley – A garnish to add color and freshness (optional).
Health Benefits of Savory Garlic Chicken in a Creamy Sauce
While this dish is a delicious indulgence, it also offers nutritional benefits:
Chicken Breasts are a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
Garlic is known for its health benefits, including its ability to boost the immune system and improve cardiovascular health.
Heavy Cream offers some calcium and vitamin A, but if you’re looking to reduce calories, you can use half-and-half or milk as a lighter alternative.
Lemon Juice is rich in Vitamin C, helping to support the immune system and promote skin health.
While the creamy sauce adds richness, the dish can still be part of a balanced meal, especially when paired with vegetables or whole grains.
How to Make Savory Garlic Chicken in a Creamy Sauce
Making savory garlic chicken
in a creamy sauce is easier than you might think, and the result is absolutely mouthwatering. Here’s the step-by-step process to ensure your chicken comes out tender and the sauce rich and flavorful.
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts in half lengthwise. This creates thinner cutlets that cook faster and evenly. Season each side with salt and pepper. Next, dredge the chicken in flour to coat both sides. This will create a slight crust on the outside while helping the sauce to thicken later.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and the butter is melted, add the chicken cutlets to the pan. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Garlic
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and let it melt. Toss in the garlic cloves, stirring them frequently to avoid burning. Cook the garlic for 3-4 minutes until it becomes golden and fragrant. The garlic should release its oils into the pan, which will contribute to the sauce’s flavor.
4. Create the Sauce
Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and garlic powder to the skillet. Stir and bring the mixture to a simmer, letting it bubble for about 4 minutes. This will help reduce the liquid and intensify the flavor. After the sauce has thickened slightly, pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Allow the cream to heat through and simmer for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the Chicken to the Pan
Now, return the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 5 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors and finish cooking. The sauce will thicken and coat the chicken, making each bite rich and savory.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the creamy garlic chicken immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Tips for Perfect Savory Garlic Chicken in a Creamy Sauce
While this recipe is straightforward, there are a few tips that will ensure your chicken and sauce turn out perfectly:
Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to avoid overcooking your chicken is by using a meat thermometer. Chicken is safe to eat at 165°F (75°C), which ensures it remains juicy and tender.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the chicken, make sure to give the cutlets enough room in the pan. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear, which will prevent the crispy crust from forming.
Simmer the Sauce: Once the heavy cream is added, let the sauce simmer on low heat to thicken and develop a deeper flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
Adjust the Cream: If you prefer a lighter sauce, feel free to substitute some of the heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk, but note that the sauce will be thinner.
Add a Dash of Wine: For an elegant touch, replace the chicken broth with dry white wine (such as pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc) for a deeper, more complex flavor.
What to Serve with Savory Garlic Chicken in a Creamy Sauce
This creamy garlic chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
1. Mashed Potatoes
The rich and creamy sauce of the chicken goes perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes. The potatoes soak up the sauce, making each bite more indulgent.
2. Pasta
A simple pasta, like spaghetti or fettuccine, is another great option to serve with this dish. The creamy garlic sauce can coat the pasta, creating a perfect pairing with the chicken.
3. Rice
For a lighter option, serve the chicken with fluffy white or brown rice. The rice will absorb the savory sauce, making for a delicious, balanced meal.
4. Vegetables
Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or cauliflower complement the creamy chicken sauce beautifully. For a fresh crunch, serve it with a side salad of mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette.
Storing Leftovers and Meal Prep Tips
If you have leftovers from your savory garlic chicken, here’s how to store and reheat them:
1. Storing Leftovers
Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container.
Store the leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
2. Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.
You can also microwave the leftovers, but the sauce may separate slightly. Stir thoroughly before serving.
3. Freezing
This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream-based sauce. Freezing may cause the sauce to separate and the chicken to dry out. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.
Variations and Customizations for Savory Garlic Chicken in a Creamy Sauce
One of the best things about savory garlic chicken in a creamy sauce is how easy it is to customize based on your personal preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations and ideas for you to try:
1. Add Vegetables to the Sauce
For added nutrition, consider adding vegetables to the dish. Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes are great additions that not only enhance the flavor but also provide extra texture and nutrients.
To add spinach, stir it into the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking until it wilts.
For mushrooms, sauté them along with the garlic for a deeper flavor before adding the broth and cream.
2. Spicy Garlic Chicken
If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic sauce. This will add a spicy kick to balance out the creaminess.
You can also experiment with adding diced jalapeños or chili peppers to the garlic when sautéing for a bolder flavor.
3. Swap the Chicken for Other Proteins
Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a great substitute. They’re juicier and more flavorful, though they might take a little longer to cook through.
Pork Chops: This creamy garlic sauce works wonderfully with pork chops. Use boneless or bone-in pork chops and adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the meat.
Tofu: For a vegetarian or vegan twist, swap the chicken for firm tofu. Sauté the tofu until golden and crispy, then proceed with the garlic sauce as usual. You can also use coconut cream in place of heavy cream to make the dish fully plant-based.
4. Add Cheese
For an extra indulgent twist, stir in some parmesan, mozzarella, or cream cheese into the sauce. This will make the sauce even creamier and add a cheesy flavor that complements the garlic beautifully.
You can also sprinkle freshly grated parmesan on top before serving for an added savory finish.
5. Lighter Version
If you’re looking for a lighter version of this dish, you can use half-and-half or skim milk instead of heavy cream. While the sauce may be a bit thinner, it will still have a delicious flavor.
For a lower-calorie option, try using Greek yogurt in place of cream for a tangy twist and creamy consistency without the added fat.
Savory Garlic Chicken in a Creamy Sauce Recipe Card
Ingredients:
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
Flour for dredging
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter, divided
1 whole head of garlic cloves, peeled
½ cup chicken broth or stock
½ teaspoon lemon juice
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup heavy cream
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to make four smaller cutlets. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Dredge the chicken in flour to coat evenly.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining butter. Once melted, add the garlic cloves and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often until golden.
Make the Sauce: Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and garlic powder to the pan. Let the mixture bubble for about 4 minutes, reducing the liquid. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the chicken to absorb the flavors.
Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley (optional) and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Notes:
Chicken Variations: You can substitute boneless skinless chicken thighs for the breasts if you prefer a juicier meat, but they may require a longer cooking time.
Cream Substitution: If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be thinner.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat for best results.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 9g |
| Protein | 40g |
| Fat | 38g |
| Saturated Fat | 19g |
| Cholesterol | 135mg |
| Sodium | 540mg |
| Potassium | 800mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Vitamin A | 980 IU |
| Vitamin C | 10mg |
| Calcium | 80mg |
| Iron | 1.5mg |
Recipe Details:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Method: Pan-searing and simmering
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 520 kcal per serving
Yield: 4 servings
Savory Garlic Chicken in a Creamy Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 large, boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Flour for dredging
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 whole head of garlic cloves, peeled
- ½ cup chicken broth or stock
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to make four smaller cutlets. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Dredge the chicken in flour to coat evenly.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining butter. Once melted, add the garlic cloves and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often until golden
- Make the Sauce: Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and garlic powder to the pan. Let the mixture bubble for about 4 minutes, reducing the liquid. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the chicken to absorb the flavors
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley (optional) and serve immediately with your favorite sides
Notes
- Chicken Variations: You can substitute boneless skinless chicken thighs for the breasts if you prefer a juicier meat, but they may require a longer cooking time.
- Cream Substitution: If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be thinner.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat for best results.
