Name: One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 tablespoons avocado oil (split in two); 1 1/2 pounds boneless & skinless chicken thighs; 2 tablespoons arrowroot flour; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 3/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 yellow onion (diced); 1/3 cup bone broth or chicken broth; 7 ounces sun dried tomatoes, in olive oil (drained); 8 garlic cloves (minced); 4 cups spinach (lightly packed); 15 ounces canned coconut milk; 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; kosher salt (to taste); black pepper (to taste); Fresh lemon wedges; Chopped parsley

I am always on the lookout for dishes that feel like a warm hug on a busy weeknight, and this One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites. It’s packed with layers of rich, garlicky flavor, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and luscious coconut milk that create a sauce so silky and comforting. Best of all, everything comes together in just one pan, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Whenever I make this, it brings a sense of satisfaction that’s hard to beat.

Why You'll Love This One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

What I love most about this One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe is the beautiful balance of flavors it delivers. The garlic shines through without overpowering, while the sun-dried tomatoes lend a delightful tang and depth. The creamy coconut milk creates an unbelievably velvety sauce that wraps around each juicy bite of chicken, and the hint of nutritional yeast adds a subtle savory note that rounds it out perfectly. Every time I take a bite, I’m reminded why simple ingredients can have such incredible impact when combined thoughtfully.

Beyond the amazing flavor, this recipe is wonderfully easy to prepare. I appreciate that it only requires one pan, so I’m not stuck with a mountain of dishes afterward. The steps are straightforward, and the chicken cooks relatively quickly while the sauce develops beautifully right in your skillet. It’s a fantastic recipe for both weeknight dinners and special occasions when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Honestly, it stands out as a dependable dish that’s full of heart and guaranteed to satisfy.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows nine bowls with different ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. The largest bowl in the center holds pale pink, raw chicken pieces. To the top right, a large white bowl is filled with vibrant green spinach leaves. To the top left, a medium white bowl contains chopped white onions. Below it, a smaller white bowl holds deep red sun-dried tomatoes. Around the chicken bowl, there are five small black bowls with various seasonings and pastes: a golden yellow powder, dried herbs, a grated light yellow paste, creamy yellow paste, and a small bowl of light yellow liquid. On the bottom right, a pale bowl with a pink handle contains a thick white liquid. The layout is neat and brightly lit, emphasizing the colors and textures of the ingredients. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this recipe are delightfully simple but each plays a crucial role in creating that rich and flavorful outcome. From the juicy chicken thighs to the aromatic garlic and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, every element builds layers of texture and taste. Plus, the coconut milk adds a silky creaminess without dairy, making the sauce luscious and smooth.

Avocado oil: I use this for its high smoke point and subtle flavor that helps brown the chicken perfectly.
Boneless & skinless chicken thighs: These stay juicy and tender throughout cooking, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

Arrowroot flour: It helps give the chicken a light coating that crisps beautifully without gluten.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of every ingredient.
Black pepper: Adds just the right touch of heat and earthiness.

Yellow onion (diced): Softens nicely and adds a gentle sweetness to the sauce base.
Bone broth or chicken broth: Provides savory depth and helps create the sauce’s base.
Sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil: These are packed with concentrated fruity tang that elevates the dish.

Garlic cloves (minced): The star flavor, adding warmth and aromatic richness.
Canned coconut milk: Creates a creamy, dairy-free sauce that’s silky and indulgent.
Nutritional yeast: Adds a subtle umami and cheesy note without using dairy.

Spinach (lightly packed): Brings fresh color, nutrition, and a tender bite to the dish.
Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs that complements the garlic and tomatoes beautifully.

Directions

Step 1: Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-size chunks about 1 to 1 ½ inches. Place them in a large bowl and add half of the avocado oil, arrowroot flour, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the chicken pieces are evenly coated. This coating will help the chicken get a nice golden crust while cooking.

Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes, then add the remaining avocado oil and let it warm through another minute. Place the coated chicken chunks in the pan in a single layer, being careful not to crowd them—cook in batches if needed. Let each side cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown but not fully cooked through yet. Transfer the chicken to a plate with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 3: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add 1 tablespoon of the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes along with the minced garlic and stir frequently for about 1 minute to release the aroma without burning the garlic.

Step 4: Pour in the bone broth or chicken broth, stirring the pan’s browned bits to scrape them up and incorporate that savory flavor into the sauce. Cook the broth down until it has reduced by about half—this usually takes around 3-4 minutes and intensifies the taste.

Step 5: Add the sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and well blended with the onion and garlic mixture.

Step 6: Stir in the canned coconut milk and nutritional yeast. Bring the coconut milk to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Toss in the spinach and stir until it wilts slightly, about 1 minute, adding freshness and color to the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Return the chicken pieces to the skillet, sprinkle the Italian seasoning, and stir frequently for 7-10 minutes to let the flavors meld and ensure the chicken is fully cooked through. Taste and adjust with extra salt and pepper as needed.

Step 8: Finish by topping the dish with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for brightness and a pop of vibrant green.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6 hearty servings, which is perfect for feeding a family or having delicious leftovers. The prep time takes roughly 10 minutes, with the chicken cutting and seasoning being the main tasks. Cooking time is around 30 minutes, which includes browning the chicken and simmering the sauce to perfection. In total, you should expect about 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option when you want something satisfying without sacrificing time. No additional resting time is necessary, as the dish is best enjoyed piping hot.

How to Serve This One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

A close-up of a black frying pan filled with a cooked dish featuring several layers: the bottom layer has tender light brown pieces, likely chicken, mixed with dark green wilted spinach leaves; scattered throughout are bright red strips, probably roasted red peppers, adding a pop of color; a light layer of melted cheese with a creamy texture spreads over and among the ingredients, giving a slightly shiny look; the pan rests on a white marbled surface, and the handle of the pan appears black with some wear marks. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When it comes to serving this One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe, I love pairing it with simple sides that soak up the luscious sauce. Creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy jasmine rice, or even buttery garlic bread are all excellent choices to enjoy every last drop of that garlicky goodness. For a lighter option, steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans, asparagus, or zucchini complement the dish perfectly without overwhelming its flavors.

Presentation-wise, I like to serve this meal right from the skillet to the table for a rustic, inviting feel. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a wedge of lemon on each plate instantly brightens the dish and adds freshness. If you’re hosting, consider plating generous portions with a few spinach leaves on the side for contrast. It’s a cozy meal that’s sure to make everyone feel cared for.

As for beverages, this creamy, garlicky chicken pairs wonderfully with a chilled glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, both of which balance the richness nicely. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon or a lightly brewed iced tea works beautifully. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a small holiday gathering, I always find this recipe brings warmth and comfort to the table and shines best served hot or warm.

Variations

I love how versatile this One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe is, and I often experiment with different twists to keep it exciting. For example, if you don’t have chicken thighs on hand, boneless skinless chicken breasts work well too, though they’ll cook a bit faster and you’ll want to keep an eye on them to prevent drying out. If you prefer a bit of spice, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic adds a lively kick that I really enjoy.

For those following a gluten-free diet, arrowroot flour is already an excellent choice, but you can also use tapioca starch or cornstarch if you prefer. If you’re vegan, you can swap the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. The coconut milk base makes this dish easily adaptable to dairy-free and plant-based diets without losing its creamy essence.

If I want to switch things up even more, I like to add mushrooms or artichoke hearts for extra texture and earthiness. You can also toss in fresh herbs like basil or oregano toward the end for a different fragrance profile. While I usually cook it on the stovetop for convenience, this recipe can be finished in the oven to get the chicken extra tender and lightly browned on top if you transfer the skillet to a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes at the end.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I recommend using glass containers for easy reheating and to keep flavors fresh. Make sure to cool the dish completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation that can dilute the flavor.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to save portions for later. I portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, pressing out as much air as possible before sealing. It keeps nicely in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When freezing, I prefer to undercook the spinach slightly so it doesn’t become mushy upon thawing.

Reheating

To reheat, I gently warm the leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. This helps bring back the creamy consistency. Avoid using a microwave if you want to preserve the texture and flavor, but if convenient, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. Reheating slowly ensures the chicken stays tender and the sauce maintains its silky smoothness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken breasts can be used as a leaner alternative. Just be sure to watch the cooking time since breasts cook faster and can dry out if overcooked. Cutting them into similar bite-sized chunks helps them cook evenly.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is dairy-free thanks to the use of coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of cream and cheese. It’s a great option for those avoiding dairy but still craving a creamy texture and rich flavor.

What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers or sundried tomato pesto can add a similar sweet, tangy note. Just keep in mind that the flavor won’t be quite as concentrated, so you might want to adjust quantities to taste.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and chop ingredients ahead, but I recommend cooking the dish fresh to enjoy the best texture and flavor. If you do make it in advance, reheat gently on the stove as described above to maintain creaminess.

Is arrowroot flour necessary?

Arrowroot flour helps create a light, crispy coating on the chicken and thickens the sauce slightly. If you don’t have it, cornstarch or tapioca starch will work as good substitutes. You can also skip it, but the texture of the chicken might be less crispy.

Conclusion

I can’t recommend this One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe enough if you want something that’s both comforting and effortless. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a treat, yet comes together fast enough for busy nights. The harmony of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant flavors keeps me coming back again and again. Give it a try—you’ll soon see why it’s become such a beloved staple in my kitchen and maybe yours too!