When it comes to comforting weeknight dinners that feel indulgent yet easy, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a true winner. Juicy chicken breasts simmered in a velvety sauce made from garlic, butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese—this dish strikes that perfect balance between cozy and elegant. It’s rich, flavorful, and comes together in less than 40 minutes, making it ideal for both busy nights and special occasions.
I first cooked this dish on a rainy evening when I was craving something hearty but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The aroma of sizzling garlic and butter quickly filled the air, and within minutes, the creamy sauce came together beautifully. My family devoured it, and now it’s a go-to recipe whenever I need an easy dinner that still feels like restaurant-quality comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is everything a comforting dinner should be—rich, creamy, and full of flavor. The garlic-infused sauce pairs perfectly with tender, seared chicken, and the Parmesan gives it that irresistible savory depth. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
You’ll love how quick and foolproof this recipe is. It uses simple ingredients, comes together in one pan, and tastes like something you’d order at your favorite Italian bistro. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this dish guarantees satisfied smiles at the table.
What You’ll Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a mild kick
Pro Tips
- Sear for flavor: Brown the chicken first to create that flavorful golden crust.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture.
- Don’t rush the sauce: Let it simmer gently to thicken naturally.
- Adjust consistency: Add extra broth for a thinner sauce or more cheese for extra creaminess.
- Finish with herbs: Fresh parsley or basil brightens up the rich flavors beautifully.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Tongs or spatula
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Substitutions and Variations
- Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or Greek yogurt for added protein.
- Dairy-free: Substitute coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Protein swap: Try shrimp, pork chops, or tofu for a fun twist.
- Add vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes add flavor and nutrition.
- Spice it up: Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
Make Ahead Tips
- Prep early: Slice and season the chicken up to a day in advance.
- Sauce storage: Make the sauce ahead, refrigerate, and reheat gently before adding chicken.
- Freezer-friendly: Cook the chicken and sauce, let cool, then freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly to prevent curdling.
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it burn).
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Let simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over fettuccine or spaghetti for a restaurant-style meal.
- Pair with mashed potatoes or garlic rice.
- Add roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus on the side.
- Spoon extra sauce over the top with a sprinkle of Parmesan.
- Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for balance.
Leftovers and Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid boiling to prevent separation.
Nutrition and Benefits
- High in protein: A satisfying, muscle-friendly main course.
- Calcium-rich: Thanks to the Parmesan and cream.
- One-pan meal: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
- Versatile: Pairs well with many sides and fits into both low-carb and balanced diets.
Recipe FAQ
1. Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?
You can, but freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture.
2. Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, though the sauce will be thinner. Add an extra tablespoon of Parmesan to help thicken it.
3. What can I add to make it more flavorful?
A squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes adds brightness and depth.
4. Can I make it in the oven?
Yes—transfer the seared chicken and sauce to an oven-safe dish and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes.
5. How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer it a few minutes longer, or whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold broth.
6. Can I make this with chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Thighs stay juicy and tender, making them perfect for this dish.
7. What sides go best with this chicken?
Mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread all pair wonderfully.
Rich, Creamy, and Perfectly Indulgent
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the definition of weeknight comfort—simple to make, yet decadent enough for a dinner party. The buttery garlic sauce clings to every bite, wrapping the tender chicken in pure creamy goodness. Whether served over pasta or with a side of vegetables, it’s a dish that turns any meal into something special.