Creamy Garlic Chicken

Steps

1. 1

   Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If they are very thick, butterfly or pound them to an even thickness so they cook evenly. Season both sides with the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

2. 2

   Place the flour in a shallow dish. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, turning to coat both sides, then shake off the excess flour.

3. 3

   Heat the oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat. When the butter is melted and the pan is hot but not smoking, add the floured chicken breasts in a single layer.

4. 4

   Sear the chicken for about 4 to 6 minutes per side, until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is nearly cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate; it will finish cooking in the sauce.

   Start 6-minute timer
5. 5

   Separate the cloves from the garlic bulb and smash them with the flat side of a knife. Add the smashed garlic cloves to the skillet drippings and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring, until fragrant but not browned.

   Start 2-minute timer
6. 6

   Pour the chicken broth into the skillet. Scrape the browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon and bring the liquid to a gentle simmer.

7. 7

   Add the heavy cream and garlic powder. Stir until the sauce is smooth and combined, then let it simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes so it begins to thicken. Do not boil vigorously, or the cream may separate.

   Start 5-minute timer
8. 8

   Return the chicken and any juices from the plate to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes, turning once if needed, until the chicken reaches 165°F (74 °C) (74°C (165 °F)) in the thickest part and the sauce coats the back of a spoon.

   Start 10-minute timer
9. 9

   For a thicker sauce, whisk a small amount of cornstarch with water in a separate cup to make a smooth slurry. Stir the slurry into the simmering sauce a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached, then cook for about 1 minute.

   Start 1-minute timer
10. 10

    Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the chicken hot with plenty of the creamy garlic sauce spooned over the top.