If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is for you! Packed with rich, garlicky flavors and a smooth Parmesan cream sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping, or impressing guests, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich & Flavorful: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and a luscious cream sauce is pure comfort food.
- Versatile: Serve it with pasta, rice, or veggies for a complete meal.
- Customizable: Add a little spice with red pepper flakes or swap ingredients for dietary preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 2–3 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce
Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Create the Creamy Sauce: Stir in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If the sauce is too thin, whisk in a small amount of flour or cornstarch dissolved in water. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until thickened.
3. Combine and Serve
Return the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes. Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Use Chicken Thighs: For an even juicier result, swap chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
- Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Cheese Variations: Add a mix of mozzarella or Gouda for a richer flavor.
- Make It Low-Carb: Serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta or mashed potatoes.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Spatula or tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Cutting board and knife
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring the sauce back to life.
Best Side Dishes & Pairings
- Pasta: Serve over fettuccine, linguine, or penne for a classic pairing.
- Rice: White rice, brown rice, or even risotto soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or sautéed spinach add a fresh balance to the rich sauce.
- Bread: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy, garlicky flavors well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese? Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly into the sauce, but pre-grated works in a pinch.
How do I make this dish dairy-free? Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
Can I make this in advance? Yes! Cook the chicken and make the sauce separately. Store them in the fridge and reheat together before serving.
What if my sauce is too thick? Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
Can I add vegetables to the dish? Absolutely! Mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes would be delicious additions.
Try This Recipe & Share Your Experience!
I hope you love this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken as much as we do! If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments how it turned out. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and subscribe to the blog for more delicious recipes!
