Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
If you’ve ever craved a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you are going to adore this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe. It’s rich, velvety, and packed with that perfect balance of garlic and cheesy goodness that transforms simple chicken breasts into a show-stopping main course. This recipe combines everyday pantry staples and fresh flavors to create a meal that’s quick enough for weeknights but impressive enough for company. Get ready to fall in love with creamy, savory comfort all in one skillet.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each one playing a key role in building the creamy sauce, tender chicken, and mouthwatering flavor that defines this dish.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor and seasons the chicken evenly.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out natural flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Gives the chicken a golden sear and a subtle fruity undertone.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth to the cooking process.
- 5 cloves minced garlic: Fresh garlic creates that irresistible aroma and authentic flavor punch.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Balances the richness while helping deglaze the skillet for maximum flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Provides the luscious, creamy texture that makes this recipe a standout.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Brings nutty, savory goodness that melts perfectly into the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds complexity and a touch of warmth.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and flavor to finish.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by sprinkling the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, making sure both sides are evenly coated. This simple seasoning ensures every bite bursts with flavor before the chicken even hits the pan.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and butter until melted and shimmering. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook them until they get a beautiful golden brown crust and are cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. This step locks in juicy tenderness and creates a flavorful exterior. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Using the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute. This quick step releases fragrant oils and flavors into the pan, laying the foundation for the luscious sauce to come.
Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This deglazing step is critical because it infuses the base of your sauce with deep, savory richness. Let it simmer until it reduces by half, concentrating the flavors beautifully.
Step 5: Add Cream and Parmesan
Slowly stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring as the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce, thickening it to a velvety consistency that will coat the chicken perfectly.
Step 6: Season and Combine
Mix in the Italian seasoning and taste your sauce, adjusting salt and pepper as needed. Then, nestle the chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning generous amounts of sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together gently for 3-4 minutes, so the chicken absorbs the creamy, garlicky goodness.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe is ready to enjoy — creamy, comforting, and utterly delicious.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of fresh parsley is an easy and classic choice that adds brightness. You can also experiment with a light dusting of extra Parmesan or a few chili flakes if you want a little spicy kick.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp Caesar salad. The creamy sauce invites simple sides that can soak up every last bit of flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fancy twist, serve the chicken sliced over a bed of buttered pasta or creamy risotto. Or build an elegant platter with roasted vegetables for a colorful, flavorful meal that feels special but is still easy to prepare.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover creamy garlic Parmesan chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days and still taste fantastic when reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce together by storing them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain that rich, creamy texture. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickens up too much.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even more tender and flavorful, and they work wonderfully with this creamy sauce. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs may take a bit longer.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative to keep it creamy without dairy. The flavors will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as is, but always double-check your chicken broth and Italian seasoning blends just to be sure no gluten-containing additives are included.
How spicy is this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe?
It’s not spicy at all unless you add extra chili flakes or pepper. The flavors focus on rich, creamy, and savory notes that appeal to all palates, including kids.
Can I make this in an oven instead of on the stovetop?
Yes! After searing the chicken, you can finish cooking it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, then make the sauce right in the skillet on the stove.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe is one of those meals that checks every box: easy, flavorful, comforting, and elegant. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or weeknight celebrations, and once you try it, it might just become your new go-to recipe. So grab those simple ingredients and get cooking — your taste buds will thank you!
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A rich and creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a deliciously cheesy and garlicky sauce, perfect for a comforting dinner that comes together in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Sauce
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides evenly with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Heat oils and cook chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Deglaze pan: Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape the flavorful browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Let the broth simmer and reduce by half to concentrate the flavor.
- Make creamy sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Season the sauce: Mix in the Italian seasoning and adjust salt and pepper to taste, balancing the rich flavors.
- Combine chicken with sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for an additional 3-4 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a bright, fresh finish before serving immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less thick.
- Parmesan cheese should be freshly grated for better melting and flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Serve with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or pasta to complement the creamy sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
