Savory Garlic Parmesan Chicken in Creamy Sauce Recipe

Creamy garlic parmesan chicken brings a comforting embrace to weeknight dinners that hunger begs for.

Comfort meets elegance in this simple yet luxurious dish packed with bold flavors.

Classic ingredients dance together, creating a symphony of taste that feels like a warm hug.

Mediterranean influences shine through the robust blend of herbs and cheese.

Weeknight cooking becomes a delightful adventure with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.

Each bite promises a perfect balance of tender chicken and velvety sauce.

Come savor this irresistible meal that turns an ordinary evening into a culinary celebration.

Why Garlic Parmesan Chicken in Creamy Sauce Impresses

• Savor Effortless Elegance: This chicken dish transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal with minimal kitchen skills required.
• Quick Weeknight Warrior: Prepare a delicious, creamy dinner in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy families and professionals craving a satisfying homemade meal.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: The rich, cheesy sauce and tender chicken create a universally loved dish that appeals to both kids and adults, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
• Versatile Flavor Profile: Easily adaptable to different side dishes like pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables, this recipe offers flexibility for various meal preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken in Creamy Sauce

• Chicken Breasts: A lean and tender meat that serves as the main protein in this flavorful dish.

• Heavy Cream, Chicken Broth: Create a rich and velvety base for the sauce that adds depth and creaminess.
• Parmesan Cheese: Provides a sharp, salty, and nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, glossy sauce texture.

• Garlic, Garlic Powder: Offers a pungent and aromatic flavor that complements the chicken and sauce.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the flavors of the dish.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that adds complexity and traditional Italian taste.
• Fresh Parsley: Provides a bright, fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and subtle herbal note.

• Olive Oil: Helps to sear the chicken and prevent sticking while adding a mild, fruity undertone.

How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Chicken in Creamy Sauce

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Get your chicken breasts ready for an epic flavor adventure.

Sprinkle salt and pepper generously over both sides, ensuring every inch gets some love.

Step 2: Golden Brown Perfection

Fire up a large skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat.

Carefully place the chicken breasts into the hot pan.

Cook until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust and are completely cooked through.

This should take about 5-7 minutes per side.

Pro tip: chicken should be white throughout with no pink center.

Transfer the cooked chicken to a waiting plate.

Step 3: Aromatic Garlic Magic

In the same sizzling skillet, drop in minced garlic.

Let it dance and release its incredible aroma for about a minute until it becomes wonderfully fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Luxurious Cream Sauce

• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Lower the heat and let it bubble softly, thickening into a dreamy sauce for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Enhance the Sauce Flavor

• Italian seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Unsalted butter

Keep stirring until the butter melts completely, creating a silky smooth sauce.

Step 6: Reunite Chicken with Sauce

Return the chicken to the skillet.

Lovingly spoon the sauce over each piece, letting it soak up all those incredible flavors.

Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Final Flourish

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Serve immediately and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

Tips for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Perfection

• Pat chicken breasts dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden exterior and juicy interior.
• Use medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the skillet to achieve even browning without scorching the chicken.
• Whisk Parmesan cheese gradually into the cream sauce to prevent clumping and create a silky texture.
• Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the dish.
• Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of dried Italian seasoning for a more vibrant, fresh flavor profile.

Flavor Twists for Garlic Parmesan Chicken

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a creamy, lactose-free version.
• Herb Garden Chicken: Swap Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage for a vibrant, aromatic alternative.
• Low-Carb Keto Option: Skip the chicken broth and use extra heavy cream. Serve with cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables for a carb-conscious meal.
• Mediterranean Inspired: Add sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese to transform the dish with Mediterranean flavors.

Serving Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Chicken

• Elegant Dinner Party Centerpiece: Arrange the chicken on a large white platter, drizzling the creamy sauce generously over the top and sprinkling fresh chopped parsley for a restaurant-quality presentation.
• Comforting Family Meal Companion: Serve alongside fluffy mashed potatoes or buttery rice to soak up the rich, velvety sauce, creating a complete and satisfying dinner experience.
• Bright Mediterranean Side Pairing: Add a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus and zucchini to balance the creamy chicken's decadent flavors and provide a fresh contrast.
• Low-Carb Friendly Option: Skip traditional sides and plate the chicken over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a nutritious, keto-friendly meal that doesn't compromise on taste or elegance.

Best Storage Tips for Garlic Parmesan Chicken

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Place chicken and sauce together to maintain moisture. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Carefully transfer chicken and sauce to a freezer-safe container. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freezes well for up to 2 months. Label with date for tracking.
• Place chicken and sauce in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warmed to 165°F.

FAQs

• Why use heavy cream in the sauce?

Heavy cream creates a rich, velvety texture and adds depth of flavor, helping the sauce coat the chicken perfectly and providing a luxurious mouthfeel.

• Can I substitute Parmesan cheese?

Yes, you can use other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago if Parmesan isn’t available, though the flavor profile will slightly change.

• How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the chicken breast, ensuring it’s safe to eat.

• What type of skillet works best for this recipe?

A cast-iron or stainless steel skillet is ideal as they distribute heat evenly and help create a beautiful golden-brown crust on the chicken.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken in a Rich Creamy Sauce Recipe

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4.6 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Garlic parmesan chicken dances with Mediterranean flavors, creating a luxurious comfort meal that whispers culinary elegance. Creamy sauce and golden-crusted chicken promise a sensational dining experience you won’t soon forget.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 4 boneless (skinless) chicken breasts

Sauce and Cheese:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Seasonings and Herbs:

• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Generously coat chicken breasts with salt and pepper, ensuring even seasoning on all surfaces.
2. Preheat a large skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, then carefully place chicken breasts and sear for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. Transfer cooked chicken to a clean plate, maintaining its warmth and juiciness.
4. Reduce skillet heat and add minced garlic, quickly sautéing for 30-45 seconds until aromatic without burning.
5. Pour heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, whisking continuously while gradually incorporating grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Simmer the sauce on low heat, stirring occasionally until it thickens and reduces by one-third, approximately 4-5 minutes.
7. Incorporate Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and unsalted butter, stirring until butter melts completely and sauce becomes silky smooth.
8. Gently return chicken breasts to the skillet, coating them thoroughly with the creamy sauce and allowing them to reheat for 2-3 minutes.
9. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a vibrant garnish and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

• Check chicken doneness by using a meat thermometer, ensuring it reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
• Create dairy-free alternatives by substituting heavy cream with coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Reduce sodium content by using low-sodium chicken broth and limiting added salt during seasoning.
• Enhance protein intake by serving over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter, nutrient-dense meal option.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 476 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 583 mg
• Fat: 35 g
• Saturated Fat: 17 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 4 g
• Fiber: 0.3 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 146 mg