Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting plate of creamy chicken to bring everyone to the table, and this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe is one of those dinners you’ll want to make again and again. The creamy garlic parmesan sauce coats every bite of juicy chicken, making it rich, flavorful, and perfect for pairing with pasta, rice, or even roasted vegetables.

What I love most about this recipe is how quickly it comes together. You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen—just simple pantry staples like garlic, parmesan, cream, and chicken. In less than 35 minutes, you’ll have a meal that feels restaurant-quality but is made right at home.

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken is also versatile. You can serve it as a cozy weeknight dinner, a weekend date-night dish, or even a holiday meal when you want something indulgent yet easy. Plus, the sauce is so good, you’ll want to spoon it over mashed potatoes or dip warm bread into it.

Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced home chef, this recipe will make you look like a pro. It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to be a family favorite. If you’ve been looking for an easy creamy chicken recipe, this one checks all the boxes.

What Makes This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Special?

• Rich, creamy sauce – The combination of garlic, parmesan, and cream creates a silky, flavorful sauce that feels indulgent without being heavy.
• Quick and easy – Ready in about 30–35 minutes, this recipe is weeknight-friendly while still tasting like something you’d order in a restaurant.
• Simple ingredients – Everything you need is pantry or fridge-friendly—no special grocery trips required.
• Versatile serving options – Perfect over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or with a side of veggies.
• Beginner-friendly technique – With just pan-searing and simmering, anyone can master this recipe.

This dish is about maximizing flavor with minimal effort. The quick pan-sear locks in the chicken’s juices, while the sauce comes together in just minutes. That’s why it’s one of my go-to dinners when I need something delicious but low-stress.

Ingredient Notes

• Chicken breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best, but thighs can also be used for a juicier option. If using thighs, adjust cooking time.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic is key here. It’s the base flavor of the sauce. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but fresh is best.
• Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated parmesan melts beautifully and adds nutty depth. Pre-shredded can be used, but it won’t melt as smoothly.
• Heavy cream – Creates the creamy sauce. You can substitute half-and-half, but the sauce will be thinner. Avoid milk—it won’t give the same texture.
• Butter and olive oil – Butter adds richness while olive oil prevents it from burning.
• Chicken broth – Helps balance the richness of the cream. Low-sodium broth is recommended.
• Seasonings – Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning bring everything together. Red pepper flakes can be added for a slight kick.

How To Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

1. Prepare the chicken
   Pat chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This step helps create a flavorful crust.
2. Sear the chicken
   Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Chicken should reach 165°F internally. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the garlic base
   In the same pan, lower heat to medium. Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn—it should be lightly golden.
4. Build the sauce
   Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up brown bits. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in parmesan until melted and smooth. The sauce should thicken slightly after 4–5 minutes.
5. Return chicken and simmer
   Place chicken back in the skillet. Spoon sauce over the top and let simmer on low for 5 minutes. Sauce should cling to the chicken.
6. Serve and enjoy
   Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan. Serve hot over pasta, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread for dipping.

Storage Options

• Room temperature – Don’t leave chicken out longer than 2 hours.
• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing – This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Store sauce and chicken separately if possible.
• Reheating – Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce. Avoid microwaving on high—it may split the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

• Mushroom addition – Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Spinach or kale – Stir in fresh greens just before serving for color and nutrition.
• Low-carb option – Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Cheese swap – Try asiago or romano instead of parmesan for a sharper flavor.
• Spicy twist – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, thighs work well and tend to be juicier. Just adjust cooking time slightly since they take a bit longer.
2. How do I know the sauce is ready?
   The sauce should lightly coat the back of a spoon and not run off too quickly.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes! Cook the chicken and sauce, then store separately. Reheat gently before serving.
4. What can I serve with creamy garlic parmesan chicken?
   Pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a side salad all pair beautifully.
5. My sauce looks grainy. What went wrong?
   Graininess usually comes from using pre-shredded parmesan or overheating the sauce. Use freshly grated cheese and keep heat low.
6. Can I lighten the recipe?
   Swap half-and-half for cream and use less butter. The sauce will be thinner but still tasty.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and easy method, it’s a meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish will hit the spot every time.

I’d love for you to try it and see just how comforting and delicious it is. Don’t forget to share your version—I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Print Recipe

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken is the ultimate comfort food. Juicy chicken breasts are pan-seared, then simmered in a rich garlic parmesan cream sauce that’s perfect over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Quick, easy, and full of flavor—this is a dinner the whole family will love.

• Author: Sophia Bennett
• Prep Time: 10min
• Cook Time: 25min
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

• Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
• Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F). Remove and set aside.
• Lower heat to medium. Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
• Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping brown bits. Stir in cream and parmesan. Simmer 4–5 minutes until thickened.
• Return chicken to skillet, spoon sauce over, and simmer 5 minutes.
• Garnish with parsley and serve hot with pasta, rice, or bread.

Notes

• For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
• Use freshly grated parmesan for the best texture.
• To lighten the recipe, use half-and-half instead of cream.

Nutrition

• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 1g
• Fat: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 40g