Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a rich and savory skillet dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a velvety garlic parmesan cream sauce. It’s comforting, flavorful, and ready in under an hour.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish combines classic flavors in an easy, one-pan recipe that’s both elegant and satisfying. The garlic parmesan sauce is creamy yet well-balanced, making it perfect to serve over pasta, rice, or vegetables. It’s also easy to make on a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for guests.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken broth
- Heavy cream
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping any bits from the pan.
- Add heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
- Add Parmesan:
- Slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Return Chicken to Skillet:
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Servings and Timing
Serves 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for a vegetable boost.
- Swap cream for half-and-half to lighten the sauce.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well and can be made a day in advance.
Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
It is best enjoyed fresh, as the cream sauce may separate when frozen and thawed.
Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides the best flavor, but pre-grated can be used in a pinch.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat moderate and add the cream gradually while stirring.
What sides go best with this dish?
Pasta, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread pair beautifully.
Can I add pasta directly to the skillet?
Yes, just cook and drain it first, then toss it with the sauce and chicken.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free as long as the broth and cheese are certified gluten-free.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Whole milk can be used, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich.
What herbs can I use instead of Italian seasoning?
Use a mix of basil, oregano, thyme, or rosemary as desired.
Can I make the sauce spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne for extra heat.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a luxurious yet simple dish that’s sure to impress. Its comforting sauce and tender chicken make it a dinner you’ll want to enjoy again and again.
Print
This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken is crispy on the outside and smothered in a velvety garlic cream sauce—restaurant-quality comfort food made at home!
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Method: Pan-Fried
Ingredients
-
Dredge chicken in flour and Parmesan, then pan-fry until golden.
-
Remove chicken and make sauce in the same pan.
-
Simmer garlic, cream, broth, and cheese until thick.
-
Return chicken and coat with sauce.
-
Garnish and serve with mashed potatoes or pasta.
Instructions
-
Dredge chicken in flour and Parmesan, then pan-fry until golden.
-
Remove chicken and make sauce in the same pan.
-
Simmer garlic, cream, broth, and cheese until thick.
-
Return chicken and coat with sauce.
-
-
Garnish and serve with mashed potatoes or pasta.
Notes
-
Add spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor.
-
Sauce thickens as it rests.