Can I make Creamy Garlic Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best flavor, make the sauce fresh. Store the chicken separately, then reheat in the sauce for a few minutes before serving.

Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken?

Freezing is possible, though cream-based sauces can sometimes separate. If you freeze it, stir well while reheating over low heat.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a milk-cornstarch mixture for a lighter sauce. Serve with a side salad instead of pasta or potatoes.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much.

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

While fresh garlic gives the best flavor, pre-minced can work in a pinch. Use 2 teaspoons per clove.

Is lemon zest necessary?

It’s optional, but lemon zest adds a fresh note that balances the richness of the sauce. Try it once - you may not go back!

Can I use shredded cheese instead of grated?

Shredded cheese can be harder to melt smoothly, so grated Parmesan is preferred for a creamier sauce.

Ultimate Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe Everyone Needs to Try

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 8-10 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Zest of 1 lemon (about 1/2 teaspoon) for a unique twist; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Description

Creamy Garlic Chicken is an easy, flavorful dinner that brings together juicy pan-seared chicken breasts and a luxurious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. With a hint of fresh lemon zest, this dish offers a unique brightness to balance the rich, creamy flavors. Perfect over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal.

Equipment

Large skillet or sauté pan
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Tongs or spatula

Ingredients

Units Scale

For The Chicken:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup all-purpose flour

For Cooking:

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Garlic Cream Sauce:

8–10 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Zest of 1 lemon (about 1/2 teaspoon) for a unique twist
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create two thinner cutlets.
Season both sides with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.

Cook the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add butter, and allow it to melt.
Add the smashed garlic cloves, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan and incorporate any browned bits. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to slightly reduce.
Add heavy cream, stirring until combined, and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, letting it melt until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add the lemon zest for a hint of brightness, stirring to distribute evenly.

Combine and Serve:

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some sauce over each piece.
Let the chicken and sauce simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice to soak up the creamy sauce. Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Notes

Adding lemon zest to the sauce is a slight twist on the classic creamy garlic chicken, bringing a subtle citrusy brightness that balances the richness of the cream and Parmesan. This unique addition makes the dish taste lighter and more layered without overpowering the garlic flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 Serving
Calories: 480 kcal
Sugar: 1g
Fat: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 30g