Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Breast is one of those heartwarming dishes that never fails to impress. Whenever I whip it up, I’m reminded of cozy dinners where everyone gathers around the table, savoring the rich flavors of creamy garlic sauce enveloping perfectly cooked chicken. It’s a recipe that strikes a wonderful balance between indulgence and ease, making it a go-to choice for a busy weeknight or a lovely weekend feast.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are plenty of reasons to try Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Breast. First and foremost, it’s deliciously satisfying while being surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re on a tight budget or just want a quick dinner solution that still tastes gourmet, this recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal, yet elegant enough for entertaining guests.
"This chicken dish is a game-changer! The creamy sauce is so delicious, and it pairs perfectly with pasta or rice. My family absolutely loved it!" – A happy home cook
Preparing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Breast
This delightful recipe can be broken down into simple steps, making it accessible even for cooking novices. The process begins with preparing the chicken, follows with sautéing garlic and creating a rich sauce, and finally wrapping it all together with a simmer. It’s a seamless way to enjoy a home-cooked meal that looks and tastes like it’s from a fine restaurant.
What you’ll need
- 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)
Feel free to swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter version, or use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free alternative.
Directions to follow
- Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally or pound them to an even thickness. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Sear the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 4 to 5 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet. Lower the heat, add the butter and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and gently stir to deglaze the skillet. Add the Parmesan cheese and simmer until the sauce has thickened.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, simmering for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to heat through and coat the chicken with the sauce.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Breast, the possibilities are endless. Pair it with fluffy mashed potatoes or a bed of al dente pasta for an indulgent meal. Adding a side of steamed vegetables enhances both the color and texture of your plate. For a lighter option, consider serving it over a fresh salad, drizzled with the creamy sauce for added flavor.
Storage and reheating tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry; storing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is straightforward. Place any uneaten chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Ensure proper food safety by letting it cool completely before freezing.
Helpful cooking tips
To elevate your dish, consider sautéing some fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes with the garlic for added flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a bit of spice, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes delivers a delightful kick that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Creative twists
This recipe is versatile; feel free to experiment! To put a Mediterranean spin on it, add capers and serve with a side of quinoa. Or, if you’re in the mood for a touch of sweetness, you might incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for a unique flavor profile. Swapping out the Parmesan for a vegan cheese can also cater to dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.
Common questions
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is about 10 minutes, making it a quick and easy dish to prepare.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide a juicier, more flavorful result. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
How long can I keep leftovers in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
By following this guide to Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Breast, you’ll be well on your way to impressing family and friends with a dish that showcases both flavor and culinary simplicity. Happy cooking!
PrintCreamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Breast
A heartwarming dish balancing indulgence and ease, featuring chicken in a rich garlic parmesan sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- 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. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Sear the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 4 to 5 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet. Lower the heat, add the butter and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and gently stir to deglaze the skillet. Add the Parmesan cheese and simmer until the sauce has thickened.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, simmering for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to heat through and coat the chicken with the sauce.
Notes
For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative. Adding fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes can enhance flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
