Creamy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken

Creamy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken is a rich, flavorful dish featuring tender pan-seared chicken smothered in a silky garlic butter cream sauce with plenty of Parmesan cheese. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive date-night entrée.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, cheesy, and packed with garlic flavor
• One-pan recipe — minimal cleanup
• Quick and easy, ready in about 30 minutes
• Versatile and pairs well with pasta, rice, or veggies
• Family-friendly and elegant enough for guests
• Naturally low-carb and gluten-free (when served without pasta)

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Olive oil or butter (for searing)
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Optional: spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added texture

Directions

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add a bit more butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up browned bits.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Simmer for 2–3 more minutes.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. Prep time is 10 minutes, cook time is 20 minutes, for a total of 30 minutes start to finish.

Variations

• Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce
• Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor
• Swap Parmesan for Asiago or Pecorino for a twist
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy version
• Make it keto by serving with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the dairy-based sauce.

FAQs

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce may be thinner and slightly less rich.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, cook everything and reheat gently before serving, but it’s best fresh.

What’s the best cut of chicken for this dish?

Boneless breasts or thighs both work well — thighs offer more flavor and moisture.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer uncovered until it reduces, or add a small amount of grated Parmesan or a cornstarch slurry.

Can I serve this with pasta?

Yes, it pairs perfectly with fettuccine, linguine, or penne.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, just make sure all ingredients (like broth and seasoning blends) are certified gluten-free.

What’s a good side dish?

Try garlic mashed potatoes, rice, sautéed spinach, or roasted broccoli.

Can I bake the chicken instead?

Yes, sear it first, then finish in the oven at 375°F for 10–15 minutes if preferred.

Will the sauce curdle when reheated?

Not if reheated gently — avoid high heat and stir frequently.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated melts better and gives a smoother sauce, but pre-grated can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken is a luscious, comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor and comes together quickly in just one pan. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish will win everyone over with its irresistible garlic cream sauce and cheesy finish.

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