Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe combines tender seared chicken breasts with a rich, velvety garlic parmesan sauce. Made in a skillet with simple ingredients like heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese, this dish delivers comforting flavors perfect for a family dinner. It pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
Sauce
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- Optional: 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- Optional: Red pepper flakes (for a touch of heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides to ensure even flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts (cook in batches if necessary) and sear for 5-7 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from the skillet and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Deglaze (Optional): If using, pour the white wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and add depth to the sauce.
- Add Liquids: Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, combining the flavors smoothly.
- Add Cheese: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring constantly until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Season: Taste the sauce and add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired, adjusting to personal preference.
- Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to thicken and develop flavor.
- Combine: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over each breast to coat them evenly.
- Simmer Together: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to warm through and allow flavors to meld.
- Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately over your choice of pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or other favorite sides.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken breasts are patted dry before seasoning to achieve a better sear.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste—especially salt and red pepper flakes.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
- The optional white wine adds depth, but can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy sauce at its best consistency.
- This dish can be paired with steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
