1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Recipe

This is one of those magical weeknight dinners that feels completely luxurious but couldn’t be easier: 1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken. Juicy, golden-seared chicken breasts are nestled in the silkiest, garlicky herb sauce—ready in under an hour and bursting with bold Cajun flavor, fresh tarragon, and just a hint of lemon. If you’re craving comfort, simplicity, and restaurant-worthy flavor in a single skillet, this dish really delivers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about 1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken is how it turns a handful of everyday ingredients—plus a few flavor bombs—into something truly irresistible. Each part of this recipe shines: the chicken gets juicy and golden, the sauce is rich but lightened by fresh herbs, and everything comes together with just the right balance of spice and creaminess.

• Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless): Lightly pounded for even cooking, these become wonderfully juicy and tender in the creamy sauce.
• Creole Cajun seasoning: Adds a warming punch and depth—use homemade for full control, or go with your favorite store-bought blend for convenience.
• Olive oil: Gives the chicken that golden sear and richness right from the start.
• Unsalted butter: Adds a touch of extra creaminess and flavor to the pan sauce.
• Shallot: A subtle sweetness and delicate allium flavor, better than regular onion here.
• Garlic cloves: Don’t be shy—10 cloves bring aromatic depth, especially when caramelized.
• Chicken stock or broth: Builds the sauce base and intensifies that savory goodness.
• Fresh lemon juice: A splash of citrus that brightens the richness of the cream and cheese.
• Garlic powder: Layers on even more garlicky flavor for true garlic lovers.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For a little kick if you love things spicy, but totally up to you!
• Dijon mustard: Whole grain or smooth, this provides a sophisticated tang and ties the sauce together.
• Heavy whipping cream: Creates a luscious sauce that clings to every bite of chicken.
• Fresh tarragon & parsley: These herbs add color, aroma, and a fresh-just-picked taste—don’t skip!
• Fresh-grated parmesan cheese: Melts right in for that savory “wow” factor and a silky finish.

Variations

No two nights (or cravings!) are quite the same, and this 1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken is designed for flexibility. Feel free to experiment—this dish is endlessly adaptable and always delicious, no matter your swaps or add-ins.

• Use Chicken Thighs: Prefer dark meat? Boneless, skinless thighs work beautifully—and stay ultra-juicy in the sauce.
• Go Dairy-Free: Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a plant-based, lactose-free version.
• Herb Swap: Try basil, chives, dill, or chervil for a new flavor vibe—each herb brings its own unique twist to the creamy sauce.
• Make It Spicier: Double up the red pepper flakes or use a spicier Cajun blend if you want a bold, fiery kick.
• Add Veggies: Stir in baby spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes along with the sauce for color and extra nutrition.

How to Make 1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken

Step 1: Season and Prep the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry so you get a beautiful sear later. Sprinkle generously with Creole Cajun seasoning (homemade or store-bought—don’t be shy!) and massage it in so every part is coated. This is where the chicken starts soaking up all that savory flavor. If you like to keep mess at bay, slip on a pair of disposable gloves while you work.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. As soon as the oil is shimmering and hot, arrange the chicken breasts in the pan—don’t crowd them; you might need to do this in two batches. Sear for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until a golden crust forms. The chicken won’t be fully cooked through yet; that’s totally fine! Remove to a clean plate and set aside, reserving all those flavorful brown bits in the pan.

Step 3: Sauté the Shallot and Garlic

Turn the heat down to medium-low. Melt the butter right in that same skillet, then add the diced shallot and all the glorious garlic cloves. Sauté gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the shallot is translucent and you can smell the golden, caramelized garlic. These aromatics are the backbone of the sauce!

Step 4: Build the Creamy Garlic Herb Sauce

Pour in the chicken stock, fresh-squeezed lemon juice, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if you like a little zip), and dijon mustard. Stir well, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes—it should reduce just slightly, intensifying the flavor.

Step 5: Add Cream & Herbs, Return the Chicken

Stir in the heavy cream, tarragon, and parsley. Bring it all up to a gentle boil, then reduce to medium-low. This is the moment when the sauce becomes irresistibly creamy and fragrant—be sure to stir as it thickens for even results. Sprinkle in the parmesan and stir until fully melted and smooth.

Step 6: Finish Cooking & Serve

Gently return the chicken breasts (plus any juices from the plate) to the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce right over the top, cover, and simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F inside). Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning to your liking. Finish with an extra sprinkle of tarragon, and enjoy your 1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken hot and saucy!

How to Serve 1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken

Garnishes

For a dish as inviting as 1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken, fresh garnishes make it pop even more! A shower of chopped tarragon or parsley brightens each serving, while a little lemon zest or extra parmesan adds a sunny, savory finish. If you want to go a step further, rustic black pepper or microgreens bring restaurant flair to your plate.

Side Dishes

This creamy chicken begs for something to mop up all that delicious sauce! Fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta make a dreamy companion, soaking up every drop. For a lighter touch, try garlic green beans, sautéed spinach, or a crisp green salad tossed with lemony vinaigrette.

Creative Ways to Present

Show off your 1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken by serving it family-style in the skillet for wow-factor at the table (not to mention easy cleanup!). For dinner parties, slice the chicken and fan it over pasta, rice, or risotto, spooning extra sauce over the top. You can even spoon the mixture into shallow bowls for a modern, bistro-inspired vibe—just add grilled bread on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Stash any leftover 1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. The sauce thickens and the herbs mellow—in the best way—after a day or two. For best taste and texture, try to enjoy leftovers within 3 days.

Freezing

This dish is absolutely freezer-friendly! Once cooled, transfer the chicken and sauce to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Just know the texture of the sauce may change slightly—simply whisk in a splash of fresh cream when reheating to revive its silkiness.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring and adding a splash of broth or cream as needed. You can also reheat in the microwave in 60-second intervals, stirring often so the sauce stays smooth and the chicken doesn’t dry out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a comforting, knockout dish that’s as easy as it is impressive, 1-Pan, Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken is for you. Give it a try—you’ll fall in love with every garlicky, saucy, herb-flecked bite, and it’s bound to become one of your go-to favorites, too. Happy cooking, friend!

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