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creamy-garlic-chicken-one-pan-parmesan-sauce-skillet

Creamy Garlic Chicken

Tender golden seared chicken breasts simmered in a rich, silky Parmesan garlic cream sauce. A one-pan weeknight dinner ready in 35 minutes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs about 6 oz each
  • 1 tsp garlic powder for chicken seasoning
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter for searing chicken
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter for sauce
  • 6 garlic cloves minced, fresh recommended
  • 1 cup chicken broth low-sodium preferred
  • 1 cup heavy cream full-fat for best results
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated melts better
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Instant read meat thermometer
  • Wooden spoon or whisk

Method
 

  1. Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. Remove and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and saute for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and just golden.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and deglaze the pan, scraping up all browned bits. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly reduced.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  6. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Use fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor. Keep heat on low when adding cream to prevent separation. Add spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables. Store leftovers up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.