Whispers of Garlic Chicken

Get ready to transform your dinner routine with this incredibly delicious and effortlessly prepared Creamy Garlic Chicken. In less than forty minutes, you can have a gourmet-tasting meal on the table, perfect for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for guests. This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s a culinary experience where tender, perfectly sautéed chicken cutlets are enveloped in a rich, velvety garlic sauce so irresistible you’ll want to savor every last drop. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the use of just one pan, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor.

Imagine succulent chicken bathed in a luxuriously creamy, aromatic sauce infused with the warmth of garlic and subtle hints of savory goodness. This is the kind of meal that brings comfort and joy, making it a guaranteed family favorite. Its rich texture and profound flavor profile make it a standout dish that’s both approachable for novice cooks and cherished by seasoned chefs. The tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen as this dish comes together is just a prelude to the delightful culinary journey that awaits.

Serve this delightful one-pan wonder over a bed of fluffy easy creamy mashed potatoes, a fragrant pile of Lebanese rice with orzo, or alongside some vibrant sautéed seasonal vegetables for a complete, flavorful, and profoundly satisfying meal. Each pairing offers a unique texture and taste contrast that complements the creamy chicken beautifully, making it a truly versatile dish for any occasion.

Close up - Creamy Garlic Chicken – Healthyish Foods
A close-up view of the lusciously rich and creamy garlic chicken, garnished with fresh chives, ready to be served.
Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Chicken isn’t just a meal; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor with minimal effort. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a cherished staple in your kitchen:

  • Explosively Flavorful: Each bite of chicken is bursting with the rich, savory notes of garlic, perfectly balanced by the creamy sauce. The slow reduction of wine and broth intensifies the flavors, creating a depth that belies its quick preparation time. This isn’t just garlic chicken; it’s an experience for your taste buds, designed to deliver maximum impact with every forkful.
  • Effortless One-Pan Wonder: Say goodbye to piles of dishes! This entire dish comes together beautifully in a single pan, making both cooking and cleanup an absolute breeze. It’s the ideal solution for busy weeknights when you crave a homemade meal without the hassle. The efficiency of a one-pan dish means more time enjoying your dinner and less time at the sink, giving you back precious moments in your day.
  • Lightning-Fast Preparation: From prep to plate, this meal is ready in under 40 minutes. Thanks to the thinly sliced chicken cutlets, cooking time is significantly reduced, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, wholesome dinner even on the busiest of schedules. No more sacrificing quality for speed; this recipe proves you can have both.
  • Incredibly Versatile: This creamy chicken masterpiece serves as a fantastic foundation for various meals. While delightful on its own, it truly shines when paired with your favorite sides. It’s wonderfully adaptable to different palates and pantry staples, making it a flexible option for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a quiet dinner at home or entertaining guests, this dish fits perfectly.
  • Family-Friendly Appeal: The rich, comforting flavors and tender chicken make this a dish that appeals to nearly everyone, from picky eaters to gourmet enthusiasts. It’s a surefire way to gather everyone around the table for a meal they’ll genuinely love, creating cherished memories around delicious food. Its universally appealing taste ensures there will be smiles all around.
Ingredients Needed for Creamy Garlic Chicken – Healthyish Foods
All the fresh, high-quality ingredients you’ll need to create this comforting Creamy Garlic Chicken.

The Secret to a Perfect Creamy Garlic Sauce

The heart of this incredible dish is undoubtedly its luscious, rich, and intensely flavored garlic cream sauce. Achieving that perfect balance of creaminess and robust garlic flavor requires a few key techniques and the right combination of ingredients. The process of deglazing the pan, reducing liquids, and carefully incorporating dairy and cheese builds a multi-layered sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken. It’s not just about mixing ingredients; it’s about allowing them to meld and deepen their flavors at each stage, transforming simple components into a culinary marvel. This sauce is the star, bringing everything together in a harmonious symphony of taste and texture.

Recipe Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Crafting the perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken begins with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layered flavors and luxurious texture of this beloved dish. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why, along with possible substitutions to adapt to your pantry:

  • Fats: Avocado Oil – This recipe primarily uses avocado oil for sautéing the chicken. Its high smoke point makes it ideal for achieving a beautiful sear without burning, and its neutral flavor ensures the chicken’s natural taste, and the sauce’s aromatics are front and center. While olive oil can be substituted, be mindful of its lower smoke point, which means it’s best for medium heat to avoid scorching and bitter flavors.
  • Chicken: Boneless, Skinless Breasts – You’ll need approximately one pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, typically two medium-sized breasts. The key here is to butterfly them into four thinner cutlets. This technique ensures that the chicken cooks quickly and evenly, remaining tender and juicy throughout. Thinner cutlets also provide more surface area for that delicious creamy garlic sauce to adhere to, maximizing flavor in every bite. For variety, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used, though cooking times may vary slightly due to their higher fat content.
  • Seasoning: Kosher Salt & Cracked Black Pepper – Simple yet essential, kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper are used to season the chicken before cooking and to adjust the sauce to perfection. Kosher salt’s larger crystals allow for more precise and even seasoning compared to finer table salt, and its flavor is clean and bright. Always season in layers, tasting as you go, to avoid over-salting.
  • Aromatics: Sweet Onion & Garlic Cloves – The foundation of our flavorful sauce. Diced sweet onion provides a mild sweetness that mellows beautifully as it sweats, adding a subtle depth. Lightly crushed whole garlic cloves infuse the sauce with their unmistakable pungent aroma. Crushing the garlic before adding it helps release its oils and flavor more effectively during sautéing, ensuring a strong garlic presence. For garnish, fresh chives add a delicate, oniony finish and a pop of color; sliced scallions are a great alternative if chives aren’t available.
  • Wine: Dry White Wine – A splash of dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, is crucial for deglazing the pan. This step lifts all the flavorful browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the skillet, adding incredible depth and complexity to the sauce. The alcohol cooks off during reduction, leaving behind only its rich essence and a touch of acidity that brightens the sauce. If you prefer to avoid alcohol, an equal amount of chicken broth can be used instead, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
  • Broth: Low Sodium Chicken Broth or Bone Broth – Either low sodium chicken broth or chicken bone broth forms the liquid base for our sauce. Chicken bone broth is particularly recommended for its richer flavor profile and added collagen, which can contribute to a silkier, more unctuous sauce. Opting for low sodium varieties allows you to control the seasoning precisely, preventing an overly salty dish.
  • Cream: Heavy Cream – The star ingredient for that luxurious, silky texture. Heavy cream is essential for achieving the desired lushness and richness of the sauce. Its high fat content provides body and a decadent mouthfeel. Using half-and-half or milk will result in a significantly thinner sauce with a different mouthfeel, potentially compromising the dish’s signature creaminess, so for the authentic experience, heavy cream is non-negotiable. Remember to bring it to room temperature before adding to prevent curdling.
  • Dijon Mustard – Just 1.5 teaspoons of Dijon mustard might seem like a small amount, but it introduces a subtle tang and a layer of sophisticated flavor that brilliantly complements the richness of the cream and garlic. It acts as a flavor enhancer, lifting the entire dish without overpowering it and adding a gentle warmth.
  • Cheese: Grated Parmesan & Shredded Mozzarella – A blend of cheeses adds depth and a delightful finish. Grated Parmesan cheese is whisked into the sauce for its salty, umami notes and to enhance creaminess, contributing to the overall savory profile. Shredded mozzarella is melted over the chicken cutlets at the end, providing a wonderfully gooey, stretchy, cheesy topping that seals in moisture and adds extra indulgence, making each bite even more satisfying.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide

Crafting this delectable Creamy Garlic Chicken is a straightforward process, broken down into simple, manageable steps. Follow these instructions closely to achieve a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen with minimal fuss.

1. Prepare the Chicken Cutlets

Begin by preparing your chicken. Take two boneless, skinless chicken breasts and carefully butterfly them into four thinner cutlets. To do this, place a chicken breast flat on a cutting board, hold it firmly with one hand, and with a sharp knife, slice it horizontally through the middle, almost all the way to the other side, without cutting entirely through. Open it up like a book, then repeat for the second breast. This technique creates four uniformly thin pieces, which ensures quick and even cooking. Season both sides of these cutlets generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Setting them aside allows the seasoning to penetrate slightly while you prepare your skillet.

2. Sauté the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat one to two tablespoons of avocado oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot but not smoking before adding the chicken, which helps achieve a good sear. Carefully place the seasoned chicken cutlets into the hot pan, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding can lower the pan’s temperature and lead to steaming rather than browning. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure proper browning and to maintain the pan’s temperature. Sauté for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is beautifully golden brown and fully cooked through. To verify doneness, an instant-read thermometer should register an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate, loosely tented with foil to keep it warm and allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.

3. Craft the Irresistible Creamy Garlic Sauce

Reduce the heat in the same pan to medium. There should be some flavorful drippings and browned bits (known as “fond”) left in the pan; these are essential for building the sauce’s flavor profile. Add the diced sweet onion and the lightly crushed whole garlic cloves to the pan. You can easily crush garlic by placing the flat side of a chef’s knife over a clove and pressing down firmly. This helps release the aromatic oils and deepens the garlic flavor as it cooks. Sauté the onions and garlic for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft, translucent, and fragrant, without browning them too much.

Next, it’s time to deglaze the pan. Pour in the dry white wine and stir well, using a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up all those flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This fond is packed with concentrated flavor and is crucial for a rich, complex sauce. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce by half, which concentrates its flavor and cooks off the alcohol, leaving behind only its rich essence. Once reduced, add the chicken bone broth (or low sodium chicken broth) and stir thoroughly. Let the broth simmer and reduce by half as well, further intensifying the base flavors and creating a more robust foundation for the sauce.

Now, for the creaminess! Gently pour in the heavy cream and stir until it’s well combined with the reduced liquids. It’s vital that your heavy cream is at room temperature to prevent it from seizing or curdling due to temperature shock, which can result in a grainy sauce. Once the cream is smoothly incorporated, add the Dijon mustard and whisk vigorously until the sauce is smooth and homogeneous. The Dijon adds a subtle tang that perfectly cuts through the richness.

Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and integrated into the sauce. This adds a beautiful salty, umami depth. Taste the sauce for seasoning at this stage. Remember that both Parmesan cheese and chicken broth can contribute significant saltiness, so add additional kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper sparingly, according to your preference. Adjusting seasoning at the end ensures perfect balance. If any of the whole garlic cloves haven’t softened completely or you prefer a smoother texture, you may remove them now.

4. Assemble and Serve Hot

Gently return the cooked chicken cutlets to the pan, nestling them into the creamy garlic sauce. Pour any accumulated chicken juices from the plate into the sauce as well; these juices are pure flavor and should not be wasted! If the sauce appears too thick, you can thin it out slightly by stirring in a touch more low sodium chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. Top each chicken cutlet generously with shredded mozzarella cheese, about one tablespoon per cutlet. Cover the pan with a lid for a few minutes to allow the mozzarella to melt into a wonderfully gooey, irresistible layer. Once the cheese is bubbly and melted, remove the lid, sprinkle with freshly chopped chives for a pop of vibrant color and fresh, delicate flavor, and serve your Creamy Garlic Chicken immediately while hot.

Storing and Reheating Your Creamy Garlic Chicken

Leftovers of this delightful Creamy Garlic Chicken are equally delicious and can make for a fantastic next-day meal! To store, ensure the chicken and sauce have cooled completely to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Keep the container in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. For reheating, you have a couple of options: gently warm it in a microwave or, for best results, reheat in a skillet over low heat on the stovetop. When reheating in a skillet, it’s recommended to add a splash of chicken broth or a tablespoon of water to the sauce. This helps to reconstitute and rehydrate the sauce, allowing it to return to its silky, smooth consistency, preventing it from becoming overly thick or separated. Stir gently until warmed through.

Finished Dish 2 - Creamy Garlic Chicken – Healthyish Foods
The final presentation of our Creamy Garlic Chicken, ready to be enjoyed.

Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations

One of the many charms of this Creamy Garlic Chicken is its adaptability. While it’s a showstopper on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the meal even further, creating a truly memorable dining experience. Don’t be afraid to get creative and tailor it to your preferences!

  • Classic Comfort: Spoon this rich chicken and sauce over a generous helping of creamy mashed potatoes or a delicate cauliflower mash for a comforting, hearty meal. The potatoes soak up the sauce beautifully, ensuring no drop of flavor is lost. A simple baked potato also works wonders.
  • Grain Goodness: For a lighter but equally satisfying option, serve it with fluffy steamed white rice, wholesome brown rice, nutritious quinoa, or the flavorful Lebanese rice with orzo mentioned earlier. The grains provide a wonderful textural contrast and absorb the creamy sauce, creating a balanced plate.
  • Pasta Perfection: Transform this into a luxurious pasta dish by tossing the creamy chicken and sauce with your favorite pasta shape – fettuccine, penne, linguine, or even spaghetti all work wonderfully. The sauce clings to the pasta, creating a complete and satisfying meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil will add a lovely finish.
  • Vibrant Vegetables: Balance the richness with some fresh, crisp vegetables. Simple sautéed spring vegetables, roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli florets, or green beans with a squeeze of lemon are excellent choices that add color, nutrients, and a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy sauce. A crisp side salad also works well.
  • Crusty Bread: Don’t forget a warm, crusty baguette or artisanal bread to sop up any remaining sauce – it’s far too good to waste! This is perfect for ensuring every last bit of that delicious sauce is enjoyed.
  • Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added to the sauce along with the garlic can introduce a delightful warmth and subtle kick without overwhelming the dish.
  • Herbaceous Twist: Experiment with different fresh herbs. While chives are a classic garnish, fresh chopped parsley, thyme, or even a touch of oregano can offer alternative aromatic layers and enhance the overall flavor profile.
  • Mushroom Magic: For an earthy depth, sauté sliced mushrooms (cremini or button) along with the onions. They pair wonderfully with the garlic and cream, adding another layer of texture and umami flavor to the dish.

Tips for Success: Master Your Creamy Garlic Chicken

Achieving perfect results with this Creamy Garlic Chicken is simple, but a few expert tips can make all the difference, ensuring your dish is consistently delicious and flawless every time you make it.

  • Room Temperature Cream is Key: Always ensure your heavy cream is at room temperature before adding it to the hot pan. Cold cream can shock the sauce, causing it to separate or curdle, resulting in a less smooth and cohesive texture. Plan ahead and take it out of the fridge 10-15 minutes before you need it.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When sautéing the chicken, cook it in batches if necessary. Overcrowding lowers the pan’s temperature, leading to steaming instead of searing. This prevents that beautiful golden-brown crust from forming, which is crucial for flavor, and can make the chicken tough. Give your chicken space to brown properly.
  • Scrape the Fond: The browned bits at the bottom of the pan after cooking the chicken (the “fond”) are packed with concentrated flavor. When you deglaze with wine, make sure to vigorously scrape all these bits up with a wooden spoon or spatula; they are essential for developing a rich, complex sauce base.
  • Reduce Liquids Properly: Allow the wine and then the broth to simmer and reduce by half. This step is crucial for concentrating their flavors and building a sauce with incredible depth and body. Patience here pays off, transforming simple liquids into a rich, flavorful foundation.
  • Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before serving. Parmesan cheese and chicken broth can be quite salty, so add additional salt and pepper only after tasting and adjusting as needed. Freshly cracked black pepper can always enhance the flavor and add a touch of warmth.
  • Fresh Ingredients Matter: While convenience is great, using fresh garlic, sweet onions, and high-quality chicken will genuinely elevate the taste of this dish. Fresh chives for garnish add a bright, herbaceous finishing touch that makes the dish sing.
  • Pan Choice: A large, heavy-bottomed skillet or sauté pan (such as cast iron or stainless steel) is ideal for this recipe, as it retains heat well and cooks evenly. This is important for both searing the chicken and building a stable sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Chicken

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making this Creamy Garlic Chicken, ensuring you have all the information for a successful and delightful cooking experience.

Why do you recommend using avocado oil?

Avocado oil is favored for its exceptionally high smoke point, which means it can withstand higher temperatures without breaking down or smoking, making it perfect for searing chicken. More importantly, it has a very neutral flavor profile, ensuring that it won’t impart any unwanted tastes to your food. This allows the natural flavors of the chicken and the rich garlic sauce to truly shine, unlike some other oils that might carry a distinct flavor or burn at high heat.

What does it mean to “butterfly” chicken?

To butterfly chicken means to take a thick piece of protein, like a chicken breast, and carefully slice it horizontally through the middle, stopping just short of cutting all the way through. You then open it up flat, like a book, resembling a butterfly’s wings. This technique creates two thinner, more uniform pieces from a single breast. It’s fantastic for sautéing because it ensures the chicken cooks much more quickly and evenly, preventing the edges from drying out while the center is still cooking. Without butterflying, thicker chicken breasts would require a longer cooking time, often resulting in uneven cooking or the need for pan-roasting to ensure they are fully cooked through.

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

The most reliable and safest way to know if chicken is fully cooked is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken, and it should register an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74°C). Visually, you can also look for the juices to run clear when the chicken is pierced with a knife or fork, and the meat itself should no longer appear pink in the center. Avoid overcooking, as this can lead to dry and tough chicken.

Why use kosher salt instead of regular table salt?

Kosher salt has a larger, coarser crystal structure compared to fine table salt. This allows for more even distribution when seasoning, as you can visibly see where the salt lands, making it easier to control the amount. It also dissolves more slowly, giving you a chance to adjust. Its flavor is generally perceived as clean and bright. It’s important to remember that kosher salt and table salt are not a one-for-one conversion by volume; you’ll generally need more kosher salt by volume to achieve the same level of saltiness as finer table salt.

Why should I remove the whole garlic cloves from the sauce?

While crushing garlic cloves helps release their flavor into the sauce, sometimes larger cloves, even when lightly crushed, may not soften completely during the relatively quick cooking time of the sauce. Removing them before serving ensures that no one bites into an unexpectedly firm, pungent piece of garlic, which can be an unpleasant surprise. This step contributes to a smoother, more refined sauce texture while still retaining all the wonderful garlic flavor that has infused into the liquid.

Can I use milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

While you could technically substitute milk or half-and-half, it is not recommended for this recipe if you desire the authentic rich and silky texture that makes this dish so appealing. Heavy cream provides the necessary high fat content to create that luxurious, thick sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken. Lighter dairy products will result in a much thinner sauce that lacks the desired body, richness, and mouthfeel, potentially altering the dish’s overall character significantly. For the best creamy garlic chicken experience, stick with heavy cream.

Why is it important to let heavy cream rest at room temperature before adding it?

Adding cold heavy cream directly to a hot pan can cause a sudden temperature shock to the sauce. This shock can sometimes lead to the cream curdling or separating, resulting in a grainy or broken sauce rather than a smooth, cohesive one. Allowing the heavy cream to come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes beforehand helps it integrate more smoothly and maintain the sauce’s silky texture, ensuring a perfect finish.

Will the white wine make the sauce curdle?

Any acidic ingredient, including white wine, has the potential to curdle a cream-based sauce if not handled correctly. The key to preventing curdling is to add ingredients in the proper sequence and allow adequate reduction. When you deglaze the pan with white wine, ensure you let it reduce by half before adding the broth. This step allows the alcohol to evaporate and the acidity to mellow out, significantly reducing the risk of curdling when the cream is eventually introduced. Following the recipe steps as outlined ensures a stable, smooth sauce.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative and often preferred by many for their richer flavor and juicier texture. They tend to be more forgiving and remain succulent even if slightly overcooked. The cooking time might be similar to butterflied breasts, but always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure doneness. Using thighs will add a slightly deeper, more robust flavor to the dish, which some find more appealing.

What kind of pan is best for this recipe?

A large, heavy-bottomed skillet or sauté pan is ideal for this recipe. Good choices include cast iron, stainless steel, or a high-quality non-stick pan. A heavy-bottomed pan ensures even heat distribution, which is crucial for achieving a beautiful, even sear on the chicken and for preventing the sauce from sticking or burning. A pan with a lid is also highly recommended for the final step of melting the mozzarella cheese, creating that perfect gooey topping.

More Delightful Chicken Recipes to Explore

If you’ve enjoyed the simplicity, speed, and incredible flavor of this Creamy Garlic Chicken, you’re in for a treat! There’s a whole world of delicious chicken recipes waiting to be discovered, each offering unique flavors and satisfying meal experiences. Expanding your culinary repertoire can be both fun and rewarding. Here are some other fantastic chicken dishes from our collection that we think you’ll love, providing ample inspiration for your next meal:

  • Pan Roasted Feta Chicken – A Mediterranean-inspired dish bursting with savory feta, cherry tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, offering a bright and flavorful escape.
  • Easy Chicken Piccata – Bright and zesty, with tangy capers and a vibrant lemon-butter sauce, perfect for a light yet incredibly flavorful meal that feels gourmet.
  • Crispy Chicken Milanese – A classic Italian favorite featuring perfectly crispy breaded chicken cutlets, golden-brown and satisfying, often served with a fresh arugula salad.
  • Sesame Chicken Cutlets – An Asian-inspired dish with tender chicken and a savory, slightly sweet sesame glaze that’s quick to make and packed with umami.
  • Healthy White Lasagna Soup with Chicken – All the comforting flavors of lasagna transformed into a nourishing, creamy, and easy-to-make soup, perfect for chilly evenings.
  • Chicken Broccoli Pasta – A wholesome and satisfying pasta dish that’s quick to prepare, combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a light, flavorful sauce.
  • Homemade Hibachi Style Chicken – Bring the exciting restaurant experience home with this flavorful and fun recipe, featuring tender chicken cooked with savory sauces and vegetables.
Close up - Creamy Garlic Chicken – Healthyish Foods

Creamy Garlic Chicken

Author:
Sarah Thomas-Drawbaugh

Yield:
4 servings
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
In under 40 minutes, you can have this creamy garlic chicken dinner ready to go. All you need is one pan and a few simple ingredients, and you’ll have a delicious meal the whole family will love. The tender sautéed chicken cutlets are tossed in a creamy garlic sauce that is so good you’ll have a hard time not scraping the pan clean!
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Equipment

  • 1 saute pan with lid
  • 1 spatula
  • 1 whisk
  • 1 measuring cups

Ingredients

  • 1-2 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 1 lb. chicken breasts, butterfly into 4 thin cutlets
  • kosher salt, to season the chicken
  • few turns cracked black pepper, to season the chicken, plus for to season the sauce
  • ½ cup sweet onion, diced small
  • 8 cloves garlic, whole cloves, lightly crushed
  • ¼ cup white wine, Sauvignon blanc or similar
  • ½ cup chicken bone broth, or low sodium chicken broth / stock
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1.5 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 2-4 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese, about one tablespoon per cutlet
  • 1 teaspoon chives, freshly chopped

Instructions

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken

    Prepare the Chicken

    • Butterfly two chicken breasts into four thin cutlets. Season them generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Set aside.

    Sauté the Chicken

    • Heat 1-2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot but not smoking, add the seasoned chicken cutlets. Sauté for 4-5 minutes per side or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74°C) to ensure doneness. Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of your chicken. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set it aside.

    Make the Sauce

    • Reduce the heat to medium. In the same pan, add the diced sweet onion and lightly crushed whole garlic cloves. Sweat them for 3-4 minutes, stirring, until the onions are soft and translucent.

      Deglaze the pan with ¼ cup of white wine, stirring well and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the wine to reduce by half before adding ½ cup of chicken bone broth. Stir well and let the bone broth reduce by half.

      Next, add ½ cup of room temperature heavy cream, stirring until well combined. Whisk in 1.5 teaspoons of Dijon mustard until smooth.

      Stir in 2-4 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted. Taste for seasoning and add more kosher salt and cracked black pepper if desired. Remove the whole garlic cloves if they haven’t fully softened.

    Assemble the Dish

    • Nestle the cooked chicken cutlets back into the pan with the creamy sauce, pouring in any accumulated juices from the plate. If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a touch more low sodium chicken broth or water. Top each cutlet with about 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese (¼ cup total). Cover the pan with a lid to let the cheese melt. Once melted, garnish with freshly chopped chives and serve hot!

    Video Tutorial

    Notes

    For a smoother sauce, remove the whole garlic cloves after they’ve infused their flavor, especially if they haven’t fully softened.

    This dish is best enjoyed immediately after preparation for optimal flavor and texture.

    Nutrition Information

    Serving: 1serving or 1 chicken cutlet with 1/4 of the sauce, Calories: 324kcal, Carbohydrates: 5g, Protein: 28g, Fat: 20g, Saturated Fat: 9g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 7g, Trans Fat: 0.01g, Cholesterol: 114mg, Sodium: 360mg, Potassium: 525mg, Fiber: 0.4g, Sugar: 2g, Vitamin A: 554IU, Vitamin C: 5mg, Calcium: 102mg, Iron: 1mg
    Course:
    Main Course
    Cuisine:
    American
    Calories:
    324
    Author:
    Sarah Thomas-Drawbaugh