Savory Garlic Chicken in a Creamy Sauce is the kind of dish that feels both elegant and wonderfully comforting. Tender chicken simmered in a velvety garlic-infused sauce creates a meal that is rich enough for special occasions yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner. What I love most about this recipe is its adaptability. I once tried it using almond milk in place of traditional cream, and although the sauce was lighter, it still had beautiful body and flavour. This dish pairs effortlessly with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, making it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire. With minimal equipment and just a handful of ingredients, it delivers deep flavour without long hours in the kitchen. Whether you are preparing supper for family or hosting guests, this creamy garlic chicken provides warmth, aroma, and an impressive finish that feels far more elaborate than the effort it requires.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe brings together rich creaminess, aromatic garlic, and perfectly seared chicken in a way that feels indulgent yet straightforward. Everything cooks in a single pan, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your evening. The sauce is incredibly versatile: it can be thick and luxurious or lighter and more delicate depending on your preference. The flavours are balanced enough to appeal to a wide range of palates, making it ideal for gatherings or family meals. It also customises easily with herbs, vegetables, or your choice of protein.
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Savory Garlic Chicken in a Creamy Sauce: A Comforting One-Pan Dinner for Any Night of the Week
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A rich and flavorful savory garlic chicken cooked in a creamy sauce, perfect for serving over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts or thighs – 1.5 lbs
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – 1/2 tsp
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp
- Butter – 2 tbsp
- Garlic, minced – 6 cloves
- Chicken broth – 1 cup
- Heavy cream – 1 cup
- Parmesan cheese, grated – 1/2 cup
- Italian seasoning – 1 tsp
- Fresh parsley, chopped – 1 tbsp
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Lower the heat and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened slightly.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Serve with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken Breasts or Thighs
These serve as the hearty base of the dish. Thighs offer extra juiciness, while breasts provide a leaner alternative.
Fresh Garlic
The soul of this recipe. Garlic adds fragrance, depth, and warmth, especially when gently sautéed.
Butter
Used for searing the chicken and enhancing the creaminess of the sauce with a rich, savoury undertone.
Olive Oil
Helps the chicken brown evenly and prevents the butter from burning.
Heavy Cream
Creates the velvety texture that defines the sauce. It reduces beautifully to a silky consistency.
Chicken Broth
Adds savoury depth and prevents the sauce from becoming overly rich.
Parmesan Cheese
Melts into the sauce, adding a nutty, salty finish.
Italian Herbs or Fresh Thyme
These bring brightness and aromatic complexity to the dish.
Salt and Black Pepper
Essential for seasoning the chicken and balancing the creamy sauce.
Directions
Begin by seasoning the chicken generously with salt and pepper. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same pan, reduce the heat slightly and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, ensuring it does not burn. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits that add flavour. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the creamy sauce, and sprinkle with herbs. Simmer gently until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has reduced to a smooth, luxurious texture. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favourite side, spooning extra sauce over the top for a perfect finish.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, with an additional 20–25 minutes of cooking time.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much. Avoid microwaving on high, as it can cause the sauce to separate.
Variations and Customizations
Lemon Herb Garlic Chicken
Add fresh lemon juice and zest to brighten the sauce and balance richness.
Mushroom Cream Sauce
Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for deeper, earthier flavour.
Spinach or Kale Addition
Stir in fresh greens during the final simmer for colour and added nutrients.
Dairy-Light Version
Use half-and-half or almond milk for a lighter sauce that still tastes comforting.
Spicy Creamy Chicken
Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for subtle heat.
White Wine Reduction
Replace part of the broth with dry white wine to build layered complexity.
Tomato Cream Variation
Stir in a spoonful of tomato paste for a rosé-style sauce.
Herb-Forward Option
Increase fresh thyme or incorporate basil for a more aromatic profile.
Parmesan-Free
Omit Parmesan and add extra herbs for a lighter, cleaner-tasting sauce.
Crispy Chicken Version
Bake the seared chicken at high heat separately while reducing the sauce, then combine before serving.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, thighs work wonderfully and stay very tender.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat moderate and avoid boiling once cream is added.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth.
Can I freeze it?
Cream-based sauces do not freeze well and may separate after thawing.
What should I serve it with?
Rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread work beautifully.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely; mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini pair well with the sauce.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer longer or add a small amount of Parmesan cheese.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream and butter alternatives.
Why is my chicken dry?
Avoid overcooking; remove from heat once it reaches the correct internal temperature.
Can I use pre-minced garlic?
Fresh garlic gives the best flavour, but pre-minced works in a pinch.
Conclusion
Savory Garlic Chicken in a Creamy Sauce offers a satisfying blend of richness, aroma, and simplicity. With its adaptable ingredients and one-pan convenience, it easily becomes a household favourite. Whether prepared for a casual dinner or a more refined gathering, this recipe provides comfort and elegance in every bite. It is the kind of dish you will return to time and again for its ease, flavour, and reliable results.
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