Introduction:
If you’re craving a rich and comforting dinner, this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken recipe is exactly what you need. This dish features tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce that’s loaded with flavor. It’s the perfect weeknight meal when you want something hearty and satisfying, but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Follow this simple recipe to create the best creamy garlic chicken that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
For this delicious and easy creamy chicken recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This combination of ingredients creates a creamy, flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the juicy chicken breasts.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Pro Tip: Searing the chicken adds a nice golden crust to the outside, which gives this creamy garlic chicken extra flavor and texture.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic). Next, stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce thickens.
Pro Tip: If you want to add a bit of heat to this Parmesan chicken recipe, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes at this stage.
Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken and let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. The chicken will absorb the rich flavors of the sauce, making this dish incredibly delicious.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Once the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is thick and creamy, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your creamy garlic Parmesan chicken with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately. This dish pairs perfectly with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a side of sautéed vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Use fresh garlic and Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Pre-grated Parmesan can be used in a pinch, but freshly grated cheese melts better and adds more richness to the sauce.
- Don’t overcook the chicken. Sear the chicken just until golden on the outside and cooked through, but not dry. The creamy sauce will help keep the chicken moist and tender.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the extra creamy garlic sauce—it’s too delicious to leave behind!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this creamy Parmesan chicken recipe. They’re slightly more flavorful and juicy, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted based on the thickness of the thighs.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, warm the sauce in a skillet and add freshly cooked chicken.
Q: What can I serve with creamy garlic Parmesan chicken?
A: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even roasted vegetables. For a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken with a rich, cheesy garlic sauce. It’s quick and easy to make, but the flavors are sophisticated enough for a special occasion. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day!