Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet Dinner

This simple creamy garlic chicken skillet dinner is a comforting and flavorful meal that comes together in one pan for easy cleanup. Tender chicken breasts simmer in a rich, garlicky sauce made with cream and butter, creating a deliciously creamy texture that pairs perfectly with steamed vegetables or crusty bread. This recipe is perfect for a quick, satisfying weeknight meal that feels special enough for guests.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 10-12 garlic cloves, minced (about ¼ cup)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup chicken broth

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Equipment Needed:

• Large cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet

• Tongs for flipping chicken

• Sharp knife and cutting board

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Wooden spoon or spatula

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Pat chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures proper browning. Season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Let the seasoned chicken rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Place chicken breasts in the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd. Sear for 5-6 minutes until golden brown crust forms. Flip carefully using tongs and cook another 5-6 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Remove chicken to a plate and tent with foil.

3. Create the Garlic Base

Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet—don’t clean it, those browned bits add incredible flavor. Once butter melts, add minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

4. Build the Sauce

Pour in chicken broth, scraping up all those flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir continuously until cheese melts and sauce begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.

5. Finish and Serve

Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Spoon sauce over chicken. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to heat through. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.

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Cooking Variations and Substitutions

Protein Alternatives:

• Boneless chicken thighs work beautifully and stay juicier

• Turkey cutlets can substitute for chicken

• For vegetarian option, use firm tofu or cauliflower steaks

Dairy-Free Options:

• Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream

• Use dairy-free butter alternative

• Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for cheesy flavor

Flavor Variations:

• Add sun-dried tomatoes for Mediterranean twist

• Stir in spinach during last 2 minutes of cooking

• Include mushrooms sautéed with the garlic

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator Storage:

Store cooled leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken considerably when chilled.

Freezer Storage:

Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Note that cream sauces can separate slightly when frozen, but will still taste delicious.

Reheating Methods:

• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium-low heat, adding splash of chicken broth if sauce is too thick

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each

• Oven: Cover and warm at 325°F for 15-20 minutes

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the Pan
   Cooking too many pieces at once lowers the pan temperature, causing chicken to steam rather than sear. Work in batches if needed.

2. Burning the Garlic
   Garlic burns quickly and becomes bitter. Keep heat moderate and stir constantly once added to the pan.

3. Not Patting Chicken Dry
   Moisture prevents proper browning and can make the sauce watery. Always dry chicken thoroughly before seasoning.

4. Overcooking the Chicken
   Chicken continues cooking slightly when removed from heat. Take it off when internal temperature reaches 160°F, as it will rise to 165°F while resting.

5. High Heat for the Sauce
   Cream sauces can separate or curdle if boiled. Keep heat at gentle simmer and stir frequently.

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Perfect Side Dish Pairings

Vegetable Sides:

• Roasted broccoli with lemon

• Garlic green beans

• Creamed spinach

• Roasted asparagus

Starch Options:

• Buttered egg noodles

• Mashed potatoes

• Crusty French bread for soaking up sauce

• Rice pilaf

Salad Suggestions:

• Simple green salad with vinaigrette

• Caesar salad

• Arugula with shaved Parmesan

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: Heavy cream provides the best texture and won’t curdle when simmered. If using milk, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with cold milk before adding to prevent separation.

Q: How do I know when chicken is fully cooked?
A: Use an instant-read thermometer—chicken should reach 165°F internal temperature. The juices should run clear when pierced with a knife.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare completely and refrigerate. Reheat gently to avoid sauce separation. The flavors actually develop nicely overnight.

Q: What if my sauce is too thin?
A: Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce, or mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water and stir into simmering sauce.

Q: Can I use pre-minced garlic?
A: Fresh garlic provides best flavor, but pre-minced works in a pinch. Use about 2 tablespoons pre-minced garlic for this recipe.

Q: Is there a way to make this lighter?
A: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, reduce butter by half, and serve with lighter sides like steamed vegetables instead of starchy options.

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This creamy garlic chicken skillet dinner proves that impressive, restaurant-quality meals don’t require complicated techniques or hours in the kitchen. The combination of perfectly seared chicken with that luxurious garlic cream sauce creates a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for family on a busy weeknight or entertaining friends on the weekend, this versatile recipe delivers consistent results that everyone will love. The one-pan preparation means less cleanup, and the simple ingredients are likely already in your kitchen. Don’t be surprised when this becomes one of your most requested recipes—the rich, garlicky aroma alone is enough to draw everyone to the table.