Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Breast is a delightful dish that doesn’t just satisfy your taste buds but also elevates your cooking game. Having prepared this dish multiple times, I can confidently say that it combines simplicity with rich flavors, making it perfect for family weeknights or special occasions. The creamy sauce, laced with garlic and Parmesan, envelops juicy chicken breasts in a way that feels indulgent yet is incredibly quick to whip up. If you’re searching for a reliable recipe that leaves everyone asking for seconds, this is the one for you.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to dive into this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Breast recipe. One of the standout features is its incredible ease of preparation—perfect for a busy weeknight when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also an affordable option that uses basic ingredients, yet delivers a restaurant-quality experience right in your home.
“This dish has become a family favorite! The creamy sauce is phenomenal, and it’s so easy to make. My kids ask for it every week!” — A satisfied home cook
Whether you’re catering for a cozy night in or hosting a small gathering, this recipe fits all occasions. Impressing guests can be effortless when you serve a dish that tastes as rich and delightful as this one. Plus, who can resist the aroma of sautéed garlic wafting through the kitchen?
Step-by-step overview
Making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Breast is simpler than you might think. This recipe breaks down into a few easy steps that include prepping the chicken, searing, and creating that luscious creamy sauce. Let’s walk through the process so you know exactly what to expect before we get into the nitty-gritty.
What you’ll need
Gather the following ingredients to create this delectable dish:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can substitute it with a mixture of milk and butter for a lighter version. For a dairy-free approach, plant-based cream or nut-based cheeses can work well, too.
Directions to follow
- Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally or pound them to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken until it’s golden and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Lower the heat, then add butter and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any tasty browned bits.
- Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and let the sauce simmer until it thickens.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, allowing it to simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes to heat through and coat in the sauce.
Best ways to enjoy it
Your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Breast can be served in a myriad of delicious ways! Here are some fantastic pairings and plating ideas:
- Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up every bit of that savory sauce.
- It also works beautifully with vegetables like sautéed spinach or roasted broccoli.
- For a lighter option, serve it on top of a fresh salad, garnished with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and parsley for a pop of color.
- Don’t forget to have crusty bread on the side to mop up the leftover sauce—it’s simply too good to waste!
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers, storing them correctly will keep your dish fresh for future meals:
- Place any uneaten chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken, but it’s best to store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm up gently on the stove or in the microwave. If it appears thick, add a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.
Helpful cooking tips
To get the most flavor and ensure perfect results, consider these tips:
- Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Fresh ingredients yield the best flavors. Whenever possible, opt for fresh garlic instead of pre-minced varieties.
- For an added kick, consider sprinkling a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce for some heat.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with flavors to make this dish your own! Here are some variations to consider:
- Swap the Italian seasoning for herbes de Provence for a fragrant twist.
- Add a handful of spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for a pop of color and extra nutrition.
- For a smoky flavor, incorporate a dash of smoked paprika or some cooked pancetta into the sauce.
Common questions
How long does it take to make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Breast?
This dish can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it an excellent option for a quick yet satisfying meal.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk with butter. For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk or a plant-based cream.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but it’s recommended to combine them and reheat just before serving for the best flavor.
Creating this rich and flavorful Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Breast not only satisfies your cravings but also showcases your cooking skills—all without the need for complex techniques or ingredients! Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!
PrintCreamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Breast
A delightful creamy garlic Parmesan chicken dish that’s simple to prepare and sure to impress!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally or pound them to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken until it’s golden and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Lower the heat, then add butter and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any tasty browned bits.
- Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and let the sauce simmer until it thickens.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, allowing it to simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes to heat through and coat in the sauce.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with a mixture of milk and butter. For a dairy-free option, consider plant-based cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg






