Creamy Garlic Chicken with Roasted Asparagus is the perfect one-pan meal for anyone who loves rich flavor without complicated steps. Juicy, golden-seared chicken breasts are baked in a silky garlic cream sauce alongside tender roasted asparagus, creating a balanced dinner that feels elegant yet comforting. Everything cooks together in one pan, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully while keeping cleanup simple.
This dish is ideal for busy weeknights, special family dinners, or anytime you want a restaurant-quality meal at home. The creamy sauce stays smooth and flavorful, the chicken remains tender, and the asparagus adds freshness and texture to every bite.
Why This Creamy Garlic Chicken Is a Favorite
This recipe works so well because it combines classic ingredients that naturally complement each other. Garlic adds depth, cream brings richness, and asparagus provides a light, earthy contrast. Cooking everything together allows the sauce to soak into the chicken while gently coating the vegetables.
It’s especially loved because:
- It’s a complete meal in one pan
- The sauce is rich but not heavy
- It looks impressive with minimal effort
- It reheats beautifully
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken with Asparagus
Step 1: Preheat and prepare
Preheat the oven to 200°C / 400°F. Lightly grease a large baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
Step 2: Sear the chicken
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the garlic cream sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring gently until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 4: Assemble the dish
Place the seared chicken breasts back into the pan or baking dish. Arrange the asparagus around the chicken in a single layer. Spoon the garlic cream sauce over everything, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
Step 5: Bake
Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C. The asparagus should be tender but still vibrant.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for Best Results
- Use evenly sized chicken breasts for even cooking
- Do not overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness
- Fresh Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded
- Let the dish rest briefly before serving
Serving Suggestions
This creamy garlic chicken pairs beautifully with:
- Mashed potatoes or rice
- Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
- Pasta or orzo
- A simple green salad
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheating: Warm gently in the oven or stovetop with a splash of cream or broth
Avoid overheating to keep the sauce smooth.
Easy Variations
- Lemon garlic: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice
- Cheesy upgrade: Add mozzarella along with Parmesan
- Mushroom addition: Add sliced mushrooms to the sauce
- Spicy touch: Sprinkle red pepper flakes before baking
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless thighs work well and stay extra juicy.
Can I use frozen asparagus?
Fresh is best, but thawed and drained frozen asparagus can be used if needed.
Will the sauce thicken as it bakes?
Yes, the Parmesan and cream naturally thicken in the oven.