Creamy Herb Chicken With Garlic Cream Sauce

Name: Creamy Herb Chicken With Garlic Cream Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Home Quick Meals Collection

I can't get enough of this Creamy Herb Chicken With Garlic Cream Sauce! The rich flavors of fresh herbs meld perfectly with tender chicken, creating a dish that feels gourmet yet is simple to prepare. Every bite is a delightful experience, combining the savory goodness of garlic with a velvety cream sauce that coats the chicken beautifully. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe consistently impresses and evokes smiles around the table. Best of all, it comes together in just a little over thirty minutes!

Created by

Nola Patterson

Last updated on 2026-02-16T08:33:36.979Z

This dish has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. Early on, I discovered that to elevate the flavor of chicken, marinating in a mix of fresh herbs and lemon juice works wonders. The acid helps to tenderize the meat while infusing it with vibrant flavors.

I also learned that a good quality garlic cream sauce is essential for achieving that luxurious finish. Using heavy cream and freshly minced garlic, then simmering them together allows the flavors to meld, creating a sauce that's simply irresistible. Trust me, this can turn an ordinary dinner into something truly special!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that hugs each morsel of chicken perfectly
Fresh herbs bring a vibrant taste that's absolutely addictive
Quick enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough for entertaining

The Importance of Herbs

Fresh herbs play a crucial role in elevating the flavor profile of this dish. The combination of parsley and thyme adds not just freshness but also complexity to the chicken. The aroma of these herbs releases while cooking, making the experience even more enticing. For a different flavor twist, you can experiment with other herbs such as tarragon or oregano, which also pair beautifully with chicken and cream sauces.

When chopping herbs, aim for a rough chop rather than a fine mince to enhance the texture and visual appeal. This larger cut ensures that the herb flavors will infuse more robustly into the dish while providing a lovely green accent on the plate. Don't hesitate to adjust the quantities of herbs according to your taste—more parsley or thyme can drastically enhance the character of the sauce.

Tips for a Velvety Sauce

Achieving a perfect garlic cream sauce requires attention to both timing and heat. Start by sautéing the garlic only until fragrant, which usually takes about one minute. If cooked too long, garlic can turn bitter, affecting the overall flavor. Once you add the cream and broth, keep the heat on medium-low to allow the sauce to simmer gently. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld without curdling the cream.

If your sauce turns out too thick, you can easily adjust it with a splash of additional chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency. Conversely, if it seems too thin, let it simmer for a bit longer until it reduces and thickens. This sauce is also forgiving; if you find the flavor lacking, don't hesitate to add more cheese or a pinch of nutmeg to enhance its depth.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Creamy Herb Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. While classic choices like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables work well, consider serving it over a bed of pasta or rice to soak up that delicious garlic cream sauce. For a lighter option, a fresh salad with citrus dressing would contrast nicely with the rich flavors of the dish.

To make this dish even more versatile, consider adding vegetables directly into the skillet while preparing the chicken or sauce. Sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can add color and nutritional value. For a hint of heat, you might sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic. These adjustments can maintain the essence of the dish while giving it a unique twist.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

For the Garlic Cream Sauce

4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the sauce.

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring occasionally. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes before adding the Parmesan cheese and stirring until melted.

Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Let it simmer for another couple of minutes. Serve hot, garnished with additional herbs if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the Creamy Herb Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating. Stir occasionally, adding a splash of chicken broth to help restore its creamy texture if necessary.

For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove. This makes it a perfect make-ahead option for busy weeknights.

Dietary Substitutions

For those watching their calorie intake, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. While it won't be as rich, the flavor will still shine through. To make the dish gluten-free, ensure your chicken broth is certified gluten-free, and you can also omit the Parmesan or substitute with a dairy-free cheese.

If you're looking for a lower-carb option, serve the chicken with sautéed zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional starches. This maintains the gourmet feel of the dish while accommodating different dietary preferences.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easy to scale up or down depending on your needs. If preparing for a larger gathering, simply double or triple the ingredients while ensuring that the pan you’re using can accommodate the added chicken without overcrowding. Cooking in batches will help achieve that perfectly golden-brown sear.

If cooking for just one or two, consider freezing extra portions for later use. The sauce can also be made in advance and reheated for a quick weeknight meal that feels gourmet. Just remember to adjust the seasonings slightly, as flavors may mellow when reheated.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide a richer flavor and will work perfectly in this recipe.

→ Can I make this sauce dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute coconut milk for heavy cream and nutritional yeast for Parmesan cheese.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with rice, pasta, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.