Introduction
There’s nothing quite as comforting as creamy, cheesy, garlicky chicken that melts in your mouth. Creamy Garlic Chicken with Parmesan is a dish that combines perfectly seared chicken breasts with a rich, velvety Parmesan garlic sauce, creating a meal that’s both elegant and easy to make.
Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or a romantic meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and herbs, perfectly coats the juicy chicken, making every bite a burst of flavor. Serve it over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables, and you have a complete, hearty meal.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through every step of making this delicious recipe, including ingredient breakdowns, cooking techniques, and expert tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ One-Pan Meal – Easy cleanup and simple preparation.
✔️ Rich & Flavorful – The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce is irresistible.
✔️ Perfectly Juicy Chicken – Seared to golden perfection.
✔️ Versatile & Customizable – Adjust ingredients to your liking.
✔️ Restaurant-Quality at Home – Impress your guests with minimal effort!
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or use chicken thighs for extra juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor:
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – Adds a spicy kick.
- ½ cup mushrooms – Adds depth and an earthy flavor.
- ½ cup spinach or kale – For extra nutrition.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice – Balances the richness with acidity.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This helps enhance the natural flavor and ensures a well-seasoned dish.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic.
- Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).
- Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir well to combine.
- Add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, stirring continuously until the cheese melts.
- Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- If you want an extra silky sauce, stir in 1 tablespoon of butter.
Step 4: Combine Chicken & Sauce
- Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, coating them in the creamy sauce.
- Let the chicken simmer for 2-3 more minutes, absorbing the flavors of the sauce.
- If adding vegetables (like spinach or mushrooms), stir them in now and cook until softened.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for an extra flavor boost.
- Serve hot with your favorite side dishes. Enjoy!
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Chicken
This dish pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious options:
🍝 Pasta: Serve over fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne for a creamy garlic Parmesan pasta.
🥔 Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes complement the rich sauce beautifully.
🥦 Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Try broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
🥖 Garlic Bread: Soak up every bit of that creamy sauce with crusty bread.
🍚 Rice or Quinoa: A simple, neutral base that lets the chicken shine.
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