1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving comfort food that doesn’t skimp on bold flavor, this 1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken is about to become your dinner hero. Juicy, seared chicken breasts swim in a rich, silky sauce scented with fresh tarragon, parsley, and a punch of garlic—a weeknight meal that tastes like something you’d splurge on at your favorite bistro, but with none of the fuss.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this 1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken is chosen for maximum flavor and luscious texture. Don’t let the simple list fool you—each component brings something special, whether it’s a pop of freshness, an umami boost, or that signature creamy finish.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lightly pounded for even cooking and ultimate juiciness.
• Creole Cajun seasoning: This gives your chicken its signature warmth and complexity—homemade or store-bought both work!
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For getting that irresistible golden sear on your chicken.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: It adds a silky note to the sauce and helps caramelize the aromatics.
• 1 shallot, finely diced: Provides mild sweetness and layers of background flavor.
• 10 cloves of garlic: The namesake superstar—bold, fragrant, and aromatic once sautéed.
• 1 cup chicken stock or broth: Lifts and balances the flavors while forming the backbone of the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon fresh-squeezed lemon juice: Brightens all the creaminess and cuts through any richness.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the sauce’s garlicky depth (yes, double garlic is worth it!).
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a little hit of gentle heat.
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and complexity to the sauce—smooth or whole grain both work.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Makes the sauce lush, velvety, and totally indulgent.
• 1 tablespoon roughly chopped fresh tarragon, plus more for garnish: The flavor signature: herbal, anise-y, and elegant.
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley: Gives freshness and brilliant color contrast.
• ⅓ cup fresh-grated parmesan cheese: Delivers nutty, salty complexity and thickens the sauce ever so slightly.

Variations

One of the joys of making 1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken is how easily you can put your own spin on it—swap the herbs, dial up the heat, or go dairy-free to fit your mood or pantry. Here are some fun ideas to make it your own!

• Swap the Protein: Try this same pan sauce with boneless chicken thighs, pork chops, or even shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Lighter Cream: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a slightly lighter—but still luscious—sauce.
• Herb Adventure: Experiment with basil, chives, or rosemary in place of (or alongside) tarragon and parsley for a different flavor profile.
• Extra Veggies: Sauté mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes in the pan before adding the sauce for bonus nutrition and color.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a rich coconut cream and omit the parmesan for a creamy, herb-infused chicken with a totally different (but delicious) vibe.

How to Make 1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken

Step 1: Season and Prep the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry (this little move is the secret to a great sear). Dust generously with Creole Cajun seasoning and use your hands to work the spices into every nook—don’t be shy, this is where that bold, unmistakable flavor begins. Let the chicken sit while you prep the rest; just a few minutes helps those flavors really cling.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat up your biggest, sturdiest skillet over medium-high, then add olive oil. When the oil shimmers, lay the chicken in (work in batches if you must). Cook each piece 4–6 minutes per side, until beautifully golden. You’ll finish cooking them in the sauce, so no worries if they’re a little under just yet—golden crust is what you want now. Move the chicken to a plate and keep those juices!

Step 3: Build All That Flavor

Lower the heat and add the butter. Let it melt, then toss in the diced shallot and all that glorious garlic. Stir often as they sizzle and soften—the shallot will go translucent and the garlic starts to caramelize and fill your kitchen with deliciousness. Give it about 3–4 minutes to really coax out every hint of flavor.

Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer the Sauce Base

Add chicken stock, lemon juice, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and mustard to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up those savory browned bits—that’s pure flavor gold. Simmer 2–3 minutes to reduce and concentrate the sauce base before moving on.

Step 5: Make It Creamy (and Herby!)

Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to blend, then add chopped tarragon and parsley. Bring to a gentle boil, then ease the heat. Drop in the fresh-grated parmesan and stir until it’s completely melted and the sauce starts to thicken deliciously.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Return the chicken (with any juices) to the skillet. Spoon sauce over the top and let everything simmer for another 5–7 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F in the thickest part). Taste, tweak the seasoning if you want, then scatter extra fresh tarragon over the top and swoon—your 1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken is ready to shine!

How to Serve 1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken

Garnishes

This dish absolutely sings with a shower of fresh tarragon and parsley right before serving—the herbs add color, brightness, and a beautiful, fragrant finish. A little fresh-cracked black pepper or even a touch of lemon zest can add the perfect flourish if you’re feeling fancy.

Side Dishes

1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken is just begging to be paired with something that soaks up that velvety sauce. Mashed potatoes are classic, but rice, garlic butter noodles, or a hunk of crusty artisan bread all work magic. On the veggie side, crisp green beans, broccolini, or a lemony arugula salad make a lovely, fresh counterpoint.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching twist, slice the chicken on a bias and fan over a big serving platter, spooning the creamy herb sauce generously over the top. If you’re serving a crowd, consider doubling the recipe and presenting in your prettiest skillet—rustic, cozy, and perfect for passing family style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover 1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making for an extra-tasty lunch or a quick weeknight repeat!

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, sauce and all! Cool completely, pack into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge—the sauce may look separated but will come right back together with gentle reheating and a splash of extra cream or broth.

Reheating

For best results, reheat 1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a drizzle of cream or broth to return the sauce to silky smoothness. Individual portions also heat up beautifully in the microwave—cover loosely and use 70% power to keep the chicken juicy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If ever there was a recipe that combines cozy, crowd-pleasing comfort with standout flavor, this 1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken is it. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, give it a try—you may just fall in love after the very first bite!

Print