Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich and creamy sauce made with garlic and Parmesan cheese. The sauce is smooth and cheesy, with just the right hint of garlic to make every bite flavorful and satisfying. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I love making this recipe when I want a simple but impressive dinner that feels homemade. The creamy sauce is easy to whip up in the same pan as the chicken, which means fewer dishes to clean—a big win in my book! Plus, the Parmesan cheese adds a nice depth of flavor that keeps me coming back for seconds.
My favorite way to serve this dish is over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes or some fluffy rice to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. It’s also great alongside steamed veggies or a fresh salad to balance out the richness. Whenever I make this, it’s always a hit, and I enjoy how it brings everyone to the table with big smiles and happy appetites.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts work great for this dish. If you prefer, chicken thighs add more juiciness and flavor.
Heavy cream: It makes the sauce rich and smooth. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or coconut milk, but the sauce will be less thick.
Parmesan cheese: This gives the sauce a sharp, salty flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan melts best. You can swap with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different twist.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for strong flavor. Garlic powder can be used if fresh is not available, but fresh tastes better.
Chicken broth: Adds depth and balances the cream. Vegetable broth or water can work as substitutes but broth adds more flavor.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Golden Before Adding the Sauce?
Cooking the chicken well is important for flavor and texture. Here’s how I do it:
- Pat chicken dry so it browns nicely instead of steaming.
- Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder for added taste.
- Heat olive oil in your skillet until shimmering, but not smoking.
- Cook chicken over medium-high heat undisturbed for 4-5 minutes per side to get a golden crust.
- Check doneness by cutting into the thickest part; it should be opaque with clear juices.
Once browned, remove chicken to avoid overcooking while you make the sauce. This step ensures juicy chicken with a flavorful crust.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I prefer a heavy-bottomed one for even heat and better browning of the chicken.
- Meat thermometer – helps check that the chicken is cooked to the right internal temperature (165°F/75°C).
- Wooden spoon or spatula – handy for stirring the sauce and scraping up browned bits from the pan.
- Grater – for freshly grating Parmesan cheese, which melts better and adds great flavor.
- Serving utensils – to serve the chicken with the creamy sauce over rice, pasta, or potatoes.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked bacon or pancetta bits to add smoky, salty flavor to the sauce.
- Stir in sautéed spinach or kale for a splash of greens and extra nutrients.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a sweet, tangy twist.
- Replace Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano for different cheesy flavors.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, totaling roughly 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Cook the Chicken
First, season your chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring often so it doesn’t burn. Then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Use a spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the pan—they add lots of flavor! Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3 to 5 minutes.
3. Combine and Serve
Put the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spoon some of the creamy sauce over them, and let them simmer together for another 3 to 5 minutes. This lets the flavors blend and the chicken get hot. When ready, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a bright, fresh touch. Serve your creamy garlic Parmesan chicken over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to enjoy all that delicious sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Cooking frozen chicken directly can lead to uneven cooking and a less crispy exterior.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a little flour to thicken the sauce, but the texture will be lighter and less creamy. Coconut milk is a dairy-free option, though it will change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure the sauce stays creamy.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes make tasty additions. Sauté them along with the garlic before adding the cream for best results.