Description
The Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet is the ultimate comfort food made easy. With juicy chicken breasts smothered in a rich, garlicky cream sauce, this one-pan recipe delivers flavor and coziness in every bite. Perfect for weeknights or when you’re craving something special without spending hours in the kitchen, it’s a dish that feels both hearty and elegant. Serve it with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete, satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon butter
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
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3 tablespoons butter
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6 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
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1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
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¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
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Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about 30 seconds to form a roux.
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Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Then, add the heavy cream and stir until smooth.
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Mix in Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
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Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the top, and let it simmer for 3–5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
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Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
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Fresh garlic gives the best flavor — avoid pre-minced jarred garlic.
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Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
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If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it.
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For added brightness, finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a bit of cream or broth to maintain the creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes