Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Irresistibly creamy and packed with flavor, this garlic parmesan chicken recipe is a must-try comfort food dish. Pan-seared chicken breasts are smothered in a silky, cheesy sauce with aromatic garlic and herbs. It’s quick enough for weeknights, yet impressive enough for guests.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – juicy and tender protein base
- 1 tsp salt + ½ tsp black pepper – basic seasoning to enhance flavor
- 2 tbsp olive oil – for searing the chicken golden brown
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – adds rich, aromatic depth
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter – boosts richness and helps cook garlic
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour – thickens the sauce subtly
- 1 cup chicken broth – balances creaminess with savory notes
- 1 cup heavy cream – creates a velvety, indulgent sauce
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese – melts into the sauce with bold flavor
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – for herby, Mediterranean flair
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – adds mild heat
- Chopped fresh parsley – garnish for color and freshness
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Set aside.
- Garlic Base: Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute.
- Thicken Sauce: Stir in flour and cook for 30 seconds, then whisk in chicken broth. Simmer for 2 minutes, scraping the pan.
- Add Cream & Cheese: Pour in heavy cream and bring to a low simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook until smooth and thickened (about 3–4 minutes).
- Combine: Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over top, and simmer for 2–3 minutes to blend flavors.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.
- Pound thick chicken breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Don’t overcook the garlic – it becomes bitter if browned too much.
- To make the sauce thinner, add a splash more broth before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken pairs perfectly with:
- Buttered pasta or fettuccine
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Steamed broccoli or asparagus
- Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
Why This Recipe Is Loved
- One-skillet simplicity
- Comfort food flavors with a gourmet twist
- Quick prep and cook time (under 30 minutes)
- Perfect for meal prep or entertaining
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a foolproof chicken recipe that delivers big on flavor and presentation, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken won’t disappoint. It’s rich, creamy, and downright irresistible — the kind of recipe that has your family requesting seconds before they finish the first bite.
Bookmark this recipe, share it with friends, and make it part of your dinner rotation!