Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken (Restaurant-Style)
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is rich, comforting, and packed with flavor. Juicy chicken breasts are pan-seared until golden, then smothered in a silky garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal, and it pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 5–6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This step ensures deep flavor and a perfect golden crust.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
Add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30–40 seconds until fragrant (do not burn).
4. Create the Creamy Base
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release all the flavor.
Add heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Add Parmesan
Lower heat and gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
6. Combine
Return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon sauce over the chicken and simmer for 2–3 minutes until everything is well coated and creamy.
Serving Suggestions
- Over pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- With mashed potatoes or rice
- Alongside steamed broccoli or green beans
Tips for Best Results
- Use freshly grated Parmesan (not pre-shredded) for a smooth sauce.
- Don’t boil the sauce after adding cheese—it may separate.
- For extra richness, add 2 oz cream cheese to the sauce.
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on low heat with a splash of cream or milk.