Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe is a flavorful and comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts seared to perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe combines simple ingredients with expert techniques to create a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Cooking Fats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
Sauce
- 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 a flavorful crust once seared.
- 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 needed) and sear for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through, reaching 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 and simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to incorporate deep flavors into the sauce.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine thoroughly with the garlic and pan bits.
- Add Cheese: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until it is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season: Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste, adjusting the balance of flavors.
- Simmer: Let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens to coat the back of a spoon.
- Combine: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Spoon the sauce over each breast, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Simmer Together: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately. This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated to ensure smooth melting and better flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it slightly longer but be careful not to over-thicken.
- White wine is optional but adds a lovely acidity and depth; substitute with extra chicken broth if preferred.
- Adjust seasoning and red pepper flakes according to your taste preference for heat.
- Covering the cooked chicken loosely with foil keeps it warm and moist while preparing the sauce.
