I’ve made this creamy garlic parmesan chicken so many times, and it’s one of those recipes that never gets old. Every time, it’s a hit with my family. The juicy, seasoned chicken paired with that velvety garlic-infused parmesan sauce is incredible.

You know it’s good when everyone scrapes their plates clean and asks for seconds. Best of all, it’s easy to make, so weeknight dinners are never stressful with this dish on the menu.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe — Source: saltandlavender

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients, but their quality can make a world of difference. Here’s everything you’ll need and a few tips for success.

4 chicken breasts, sliced in half lengthwise for even cooking.
Salt and black pepper, to taste. Seasoning throughout makes a huge difference.
1 teaspoon garlic powder for extra depth of flavor in the chicken.
2 tablespoons olive oil for searing the chicken; it locks in juices and adds a nice crust.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, for added richness in the sauce.
3 cloves fresh garlic, minced. Fresh is key here for a punchy garlic flavor.
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, whisked into the butter for a smooth, creamy base.
1 cup chicken broth. Use low-sodium to control the salt in the dish.
1 cup heavy cream. Don’t substitute with milk as the sauce may not thicken properly.
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as well.
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning for a subtle herbal kick.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish.

Note: This recipe serves four. Adjust ingredient quantities as needed for larger or smaller portions.

Variations

This recipe is versatile, and you can easily tweak it to suit different dietary needs or preferences:

Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream substitute. Use vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast in place of traditional cheese.
Gluten-Free: Replace the flour with a gluten-free alternative like arrowroot powder or cornstarch.
Low-Fat: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
Add-Ins: Stir in a handful of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to elevate the flavor even further.

For a twist, you might enjoy this Southwest Chicken Alfredo Recipe, which offers a creamy and zesty variation.

Cooking Time

Here’s a quick breakdown of the time required for this dish:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

Make sure you have the right tools to make this recipe effortless and smooth.

A large skillet for cooking and combining the chicken and sauce.
A sharp knife to slice the chicken evenly.
Tongs for flipping the chicken without breaking it.
A wooden spoon or whisk for stirring the sauce.
A meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

This recipe comes together in a few simple steps. Each one builds flavor, making the dish rich and indulgent.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half lengthwise for thinner, evenly cooked pieces. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Create the Base for the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes, forming a smooth roux.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking to dissolve the flour. Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to thicken for a few minutes. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Finish

Turn off the heat and stir in the grated parmesan cheese, letting it melt fully into the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Combine with Chicken and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet along with any juices that have collected on the plate. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and cook for another minute until everything is heated through. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Here are some helpful tips I’ve learned while making this dish:

Use room-temperature chicken. It cooks more evenly and avoids drying out.
Grate parmesan freshly. It melts smoother and enhances the sauce’s texture.
Don’t skimp on the whisking while making the roux; it ensures a lump-free sauce.
Add a splash of white wine during the sauce-making step for a more gourmet touch.
Use a thermometer to test the chicken’s temperature. It should read 165°F.

For a bold flavor pairing, consider trying Cajun Chicken with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce as a side or alternative dish.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

Presentation matters, especially when serving guests! Arrange the chicken neatly on a platter and drizzle the creamy sauce over it. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with:

Mashed potatoes
Buttered egg noodles
Steamed asparagus or green beans
Crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: Approximately 493
Protein: 31g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fat: 39g

Make Ahead and Storage

Planning to save some for later? Here’s how you can store and reheat it properly.

Storing Leftovers

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the dish for up to 2 months, but note that cream-based sauces may slightly separate when reheated.

Reheating

Warm over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken has so many highlights. Here’s why it’s a keeper:

It’s quick and easy to make, even on busy weeknights.
The creamy, flavorful sauce is utterly irresistible.
You can easily adapt it to fit dietary needs.
It’s perfect for pairing with various sides, from pasta to veggies.
The recipe works equally well for a casual dinner or a fancy meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Better Results

Even a straightforward recipe like this can go sideways. Here’s what to watch out for:

Skipping the Sear: Always sear the chicken well for maximum flavor and a pleasing texture.
Overcooking the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to avoid tough, dry chicken.
Rushing the Sauce: Give the sauce time to thicken and develop its flavors.
Not Adjusting Salt: Parmesan is salty, so taste the sauce before adding extra salt.
Using Pre-Grated Cheese: It doesn’t melt well and may leave a gritty texture in the sauce.

And there you have it! This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe is sure to win over your family and friends. It’s simple, indulgent, and customizable. Try it out and enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite! You can also enjoy similar chicken recipes for more inspiration.

Ash Tyrrell