Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe delivers tender chicken cutlets smothered in a rich and velvety sauce that never fails to impress. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something comforting and indulgent but straightforward enough to whip up on a weeknight. The combination of seared chicken and a garlicinfused parmesan cream sauce creates a flavor experience that feels special without demanding too much time or fancy ingredients.

I first made this when craving a cozy dinner after a long day and was amazed at how quickly it came together. Now my husband asks for it regularly, and my kids have officially dubbed it a favorite.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Choose large boneless types for even slicing and tender bites
• Olive oil: Important for an even golden sear and subtle flavor
• Minced garlic: Fresh is best for that punchy aroma and taste
• Butter: Adds richness and helps mellow the garlic
• Heavy whipping cream: Makes the sauce thick and luscious be sure it’s cold for best results
• Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated for bold cheesy flavor pre shredded can have fillers
• Onion powder: Boosts the savoriness of the whole dish
• Garlic powder: Enhances the depth of the sauce even more
• Paprika: Gives a gentle smokiness and color use sweet paprika if possible
• Salt and black pepper: Season everything and help each flavor pop taste as you go

Instructions

Prep the Chicken:

Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally so you end up with cutlets that cook evenly and quickly Pat them dry with paper towels to help them brown

Season the Chicken:

Sprinkle both sides of the cutlets with onion powder garlic powder paprika salt and pepper so that every bite is flavorful

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a big skillet over medium high Place the chicken down let it cook undisturbed for 6 to 7 minutes per side You want a caramelized crust and internal temperature at 165 degrees Fahrenheit Set the chicken aside

Build the Sauce Base:

Lower the heat to medium Add butter to the same pan so the flavor from browning the chicken stays in the dish Let it fully melt

Bloom the Garlic:

Add minced garlic Cook for about 30 seconds stirring just until fragrant and slightly golden Watch it carefully to avoid burning

Create the Creamy Sauce:

Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the parmesan cheese Stir gently as it heats and allow the mixture to reach a gentle simmer so the cheese melts and the sauce thickens Aim for a smooth texture

Finish the Dish:

Nestle the cooked chicken back into the skillet ensuring each piece is coated with sauce Let it warm for a few minutes so flavors combine

Serve:

Plate the chicken cutlets and spoon extra garlic parmesan sauce over them Serve immediately while hot and creamy

Parmesan steals the show every time in this recipe I still remember when my son asked for extra cheese on everything thanks to this sauce This dish brings the family together as we all scramble to soak up every last drop with fresh bread at the table

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat gently on the stove adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce If freezing separate chicken and sauce for best texture

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken tenderloins work well instead of breasts just reduce the cooking time For a lighter sauce half and half can replace heavy cream but expect a thinner consistency Freshly grated pecorino romano is a great alternative to parmesan

Serving Suggestions

Try this over mashed potatoes pasta rice or cauliflower mash A side of roasted broccoli or a crisp salad balances the richness Sopping the sauce up with warm crusty bread is my family’s favorite way to finish the meal

Serve this with your favorite sides for a comforting weeknight meal and enjoy the rich garlic parmesan sauce with warm bread or pasta.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ How do I keep the chicken juicy?

Lightly pound chicken cutlets for even thickness and sear them until golden on both sides before simmering briefly in the sauce to retain moisture.

→ Can pre-grated parmesan cheese be used?

Freshly grated parmesan melts better and adds bold flavor, but high-quality pre-grated cheese can work if needed.

→ What sides complement this dish?

Serve with pasta, mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables to balance the creamy sauce and tender chicken.

→ Is it possible to lighten the sauce?

Substitute half-and-half or a splash of milk for some heavy cream for a thinner, lighter sauce without losing creaminess.

→ Can chicken tenderloins replace breasts?

Yes, tenderloins cook faster so adjust cooking time accordingly to prevent overcooking.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream to restore sauce texture.