Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, a luscious garlic parmesan sauce, and simple pantry ingredients for an easy yet elegant meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper
• Garlic powder
• All-purpose flour
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Lightly coat with flour.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Cook chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Add the Cream and Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and thickened.
5. Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Garnish and Enjoy: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm with your choice of sides.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for extra depth.
• Spinach Upgrade: Stir in fresh spinach at the end for added greens.
• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to keep the sauce smooth.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs will be just as delicious and add extra juiciness.

What type of Parmesan works best?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts best, but pre-grated can work in a pinch.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free butter, coconut cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

What can I serve this with?

Pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables make great sides.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer longer, or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes! Store the sauce separately and reheat before adding the chicken.

What oil is best for frying the chicken?

Olive oil works well, but avocado oil or vegetable oil are good alternatives.

How can I make this even creamier?

Add an extra tablespoon of butter or a bit more heavy cream.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes! Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the broth.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a simple yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for any meal. Its rich, velvety sauce and tender chicken will quickly make it a household favorite. Try this recipe today and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home!

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