Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet Recipe
If you’re craving a home-cooked meal that feels indulgent yet comes together effortlessly, the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chicken breasts nestled in a luscious sauce bursting with garlic, rich parmesan, and a silky cream finish, all made in just one pan. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests without the fuss. This dish blends simple ingredients into a truly vibrant, flavorful experience that leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet Recipe plays a key role—balancing texture, flavor, and richness to create that perfect harmony. None are complicated or exotic, making this recipe accessible yet gourmet in result.
- Chicken breasts: Cut lengthwise for even cooking and tender texture.
- Salt & pepper: The foundational seasoning that enhances all flavors.
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic depth without overpowering.
- Olive oil: For searing and adding a light fruity note.
- Butter: Gives richness and helps achieve a golden sear on the chicken.
- Flour: Acts as a thickening agent for the creamy sauce.
- Fresh garlic: Brings a vibrant punch to the sauce, making it irresistible.
- Chicken broth or dry white wine: Adds umami and acidity to balance the cream.
- Heavy cream: The luscious base for the sauce’s velvety texture.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for a sharp, savory finish.
- Fresh parsley: A bright, herbaceous garnish that elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing your chicken breasts lengthwise to ensure they cook evenly and stay juicy throughout. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. This simple seasoning is the secret foundation that preps the chicken to absorb all the rich sauce flavors later.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and butter together in a skillet over medium-high heat. The butter adds a toasted, nutty flavor while the oil prevents it from burning. Sear each side of your chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Once cooked, set the chicken aside—don’t worry, the sauce will bring it all together soon!
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Using the same skillet, sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly. This creates a roux that will thicken your sauce beautifully. Add the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, filling your kitchen with that signature aroma everyone loves. Next, pour in the chicken broth or dry white wine, scraping the bottom to lift any delicious browned bits. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently until the sauce thickens and starts to coat the back of a spoon. Finally, stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese for that sharp, creamy finish that makes this dish unforgettable.
Step 4: Finish the Dish
Now it’s time to reunite the star of the show with the sauce. Nestle the cooked chicken back into the skillet and spoon the sauce generously over each piece. Scatter fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and a fragrant herbal note. Let everything heat through for a minute or two so the flavors meld together beautifully.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the ideal garnish, adding both brightness and a pop of green that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of extra parmesan or even a pinch of red chili flakes can add dimension and a subtle kick.
Side Dishes
This skillet pairs wonderfully with warm, buttery mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice that can soak up the luscious sauce. For a lighter option, steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad bring balance and crunch to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant presentation, serve the chicken on a rustic wooden board with sauce drizzled artistically over the top and parsley scattered around. Individual ramekins filled with sauce on the side let guests customize their sauciness. Alternatively, tossing some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce before finishing adds beautiful color and a flavor boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the dish will remain fresh for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens as it chills, so give it a good stir when reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet Recipe, but the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, freeze the chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly over low heat on the stove or in the microwave at medium power to prevent the cream sauce from breaking. Stir frequently and add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce seems too thick. This will bring it back to creamy perfection.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Absolutely! While chicken breasts work best for even cooking in this skillet recipe, boneless thighs can also be used for a juicier, more flavorful result. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of flour to thicken, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as rich or creamy. Coconut cream is an option for a dairy-free version but will alter the flavor.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch instead of regular flour to thicken the sauce. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it easy to adapt.
How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
Cook the sauce gently over medium to low heat and avoid boiling once the cream is added. Stir continuously and add cheese slowly to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully, complementing the richness of the garlic parmesan sauce without overwhelming the flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that feels luxurious yet is so straightforward to pull together, and this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet Recipe fits that description perfectly. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for yourself, it promises satisfying flavors and comforting textures every single time. I can’t recommend it enough—give it a try, and you might just have found your new favorite go-to dinner!
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet recipe features tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and smothered in a rich, velvety garlic and parmesan cream sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy yet elegant dish perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces. Season both sides of the chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear each side until cooked through and golden brown, approximately 4-5 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the flour to the remaining oil and butter, stirring well to form a roux. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Slowly pour in the chicken broth or dry white wine, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Then add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for several minutes until the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally. Finally, stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce.
- Finish the Dish: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet and spoon the creamy garlic parmesan sauce over the top. Let everything warm together for a minute or two, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavorful sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with dry white wine or vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.
- Ensure the chicken breasts are evenly sliced to cook uniformly and remain juicy.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for best melting and taste.
- Serve with pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
