If you’re craving something ultra-comforting yet easy enough for a weeknight, let me introduce you to the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet. This one-pan wonder is packed with juicy sautéed chicken, a velvety parmesan sauce infused with garlic, and a touch of fresh greens for good measure. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a skillet brimming with flavor and the kind of creamy, savory magic that makes everyone gather around the table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself after a long day, this is a dish that never fails to impress!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet is surprisingly uncomplicated, and you likely have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already. Each one brings something special—richness, texture, a pop of color, or irresistible aroma. Here’s what you’ll need (plus a few tips to coax out maximum flavor):
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and halved horizontally—they’ll cook quickly and stay juicy in the skillet.
- Salt: Just a touch brings out all the savory goodness in each bite.
- Black pepper: Adds an undercurrent of gentle heat and depth of flavor.
- Olive oil: For searing the chicken and building a golden crust—it’s the secret to flavor-packed pan drippings.
- Garlic: Freshly minced cloves are key to infusing the skillet and sauce with aromatic intensity.
- Heavy cream: This is what gets the sauce so luxuriously smooth and luscious.
- Chicken broth: Lends a savory base and balances the richness of the cream.
- Parmesan cheese: The star! Use grated parmesan for even melting—its nutty tang is what makes the sauce unforgettable.
- Italian seasoning: A pinch of this classic herb blend brings herby warmth to every bite.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): If you like a mild kick, sprinkle these in for a little background warmth.
- Baby spinach (optional): Toss in a handful for fresh color and a burst of nutrition—let it just wilt into the sauce.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish): Brightens up the skillet with a final touch of green and freshness.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
First, grab your chicken breasts and slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This not only helps them cook faster, but ensures every bite is tender. Pat them dry, then season both sides generously with salt and black pepper—this simple step lays the foundation for all the flavor to come.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in your largest skillet over medium heat, making sure the pan is nice and hot before adding the chicken. Lay the pieces in a single layer and let them cook, undisturbed, for 4 to 5 minutes per side. This creates a gorgeous golden-brown crust and seals in the juices. Once perfectly cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C), transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Lower the heat a bit and toss your minced garlic right into the same skillet. Let it sizzle and release its bold aroma for about 30 seconds—careful not to let it brown, as garlic turns bitter easily. This quick sauté infuses the remaining oil and all those pan drippings with garlicky goodness, forming the base of your sauce.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Pour the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, using your spoon or spatula to scrape up every last bit of flavorful fond from the bottom. Bring it all to a gentle simmer—it should start looking silky and a bit thick. Stir in the parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them, and let the sauce bubble and thicken for 2 to 3 minutes. The cheese will melt right in, turning everything creamy, tangy, and irresistible.
Step 5: Add Greens and Return Chicken
If you’re feeling virtuous or just love a pop of color, toss in your baby spinach and stir until it wilts down into the sauce. Now it’s time for the chicken to return to the party! Nestle the cutlets back into the skillet and spoon some sauce over the top, letting them simmer in that rich, creamy bath for another 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld perfectly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Scatter chopped parsley all over the skillet for a fresh finishing touch. Your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet is ready to serve—right from the pan, family style, or plated up with your favorite side. Get ready to swoon!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet
Garnishes
A finishing sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley does wonders for the color and flavor of this dish. If you’re feeling extra fancy, a little more grated parmesan or a light dusting of black pepper just before serving adds a pro touch and a punch of umami.
Side Dishes
The Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet is made for pairing with something that will soak up every drop of sauce—think pillowy mashed potatoes, a little bed of al dente pasta, fluffy white rice, or even a hunk of crusty bread. For a lighter take, try roasted broccoli or a crisp green salad on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to really wow your guests, plate the chicken over a swirl of mashed potatoes and spoon plenty of sauce over the top. Or, for cozy comfort food vibes, bring the whole skillet straight to the table and let everyone dig in family-style. Another great idea: slice the chicken and layer it over creamy polenta or sautéed greens for an elegant twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, any leftover Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet can be tucked away in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better as they mingle overnight!
Freezing
While the creamy sauce can change texture slightly after freezing, you can certainly freeze leftovers if needed. Place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving for too long, as creamy sauces can break—stovetop is definitely best for maintaining that luscious velvety texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are wonderfully juicy and bring extra flavor. If you use boneless, skinless thighs, adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer than breasts. Just make sure to cook to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Is there a good substitute for the heavy cream?
If you’d like a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk. Just be aware that the sauce may not be quite as thick and creamy, but it will still taste fantastic!
How can I make this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet gluten-free?
Good news—this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written! Just double-check your chicken broth and parmesan to be sure they’re certified gluten-free if you have any dietary restrictions.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely. The baby spinach is a great addition, but mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even zucchini would all work beautifully. Sauté them right after cooking the chicken to build the most flavor.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce thickens more than you’d like, simply add an extra splash of chicken broth or cream and stir to your preferred consistency. The sauce should cling to the chicken but still be silky and pourable.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to experience just how satisfying and delicious this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet turns out every single time. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself, this recipe is bound to win hearts—and maybe even tempt a few seconds. Give it a try soon and make it your new go-to comfort meal!
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich and creamy sauce with the perfect blend of garlic and Parmesan flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved horizontally)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Season chicken on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sear chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make Sauce: Sauté garlic in the skillet, then add cream and broth. Simmer and stir in Parmesan, seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Add spinach if desired.
- Finish Dish: Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over, and simmer. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
