Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe features tender seared chicken breasts smothered in a rich and velvety garlic parmesan sauce. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this dish combines savory flavors from garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning, finished off with fresh parsley for a burst of freshness. Ideal served over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- Optional: 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- Optional: Red pepper flakes (for a touch of heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides to ensure the chicken is flavorful throughout.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts (cook in batches if necessary) and sear each side for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside, covering loosely with foil to keep warm.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Deglaze (Optional): If using white wine, pour it into the skillet now and simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to add depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Add Cheese: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning by adding salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using, to your preference.
- Simmer: Let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened and flavorful.
- Combine: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Simmer Together: Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and absorb the sauce flavors.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately over your favorite side such as pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the chicken breasts are patted dry before seasoning to get a good sear.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother, more flavorful sauce.
- The optional white wine adds complexity but can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your heat tolerance or omit for a milder sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
