Looking for a creamy chicken dish packed with garlic and a velvety sauce? This Creamy Garlic Chicken is perfect for weeknights or special occasions, offering tender chicken cutlets cooked in a rich and aromatic garlic sauce. With easy-to-find ingredients like chicken, butter, and heavy cream, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home. Serve it with mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a wholesome and satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting guests or preparing a comforting dinner for the family, this recipe is a must-try for its simplicity and crowd-pleasing taste.

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
1/2 cup chicken broth or stock
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup heavy cream (or whipping cream)
Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken: Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create 4 thin cutlets. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper, then coat lightly with flour.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once hot, place the chicken cutlets in the skillet and sauté for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the peeled garlic cloves. Stir frequently and cook for 3-4 minutes until the garlic is lightly browned.
Make the Sauce: Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and garlic powder to the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for about 4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
Combine Cream and Chicken: Stir in the heavy cream until well blended. Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is fully cooked.
Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Pair with your favorite sides for a comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is a comforting, one-pan recipe that balances the richness of cream with the tangy brightness of lemon juice. The whole garlic cloves add a mellow, caramelized flavor that elevates the dish, making it both easy and impressive.

Tips

For extra tenderness, pound the chicken to an even thickness before cooking.
Be careful not to overcook the garlic—it should be golden and fragrant, not burnt.
Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to ensure even cooking and to avoid scorching the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken with pork chops, turkey cutlets, or even shrimp for variety.
Cream Alternatives: Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for added nutrition.
Herbs: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.

FAQs

Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of whole cloves?
Yes, but the flavor will differ. Whole cloves caramelize and become sweeter, while minced garlic will have a sharper taste.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! Store the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid curdling the cream.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?
Substitute with vegetable broth or even water seasoned with a pinch of salt.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the creamy sauce.
Serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
A side of crusty bread works wonderfully for dipping into the luscious sauce.