Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 74

Updated on October 17, 2024

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet brings bold flavors and creamy goodness to the table in just 30 minutes. Juicy chicken breasts are pan-seared to golden perfection, then smothered in a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce that’s perfect for pairing with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress!

About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet is a simple yet decadent dish that transforms everyday ingredients into a gourmet experience. With juicy chicken breasts coated in a blend of Italian herbs, garlic, and Parmesan, this recipe delivers big on flavor while keeping the preparation quick and easy. The chicken is seared to golden perfection, locking in the seasonings, before being smothered in a rich, creamy sauce made with sautéed garlic, onions, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Every bite bursts with the comforting flavors of garlic and Parmesan, making this meal a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or even a special occasion. What sets this dish apart is its versatility and depth of flavor despite the minimal effort. Whether you serve it over mashed potatoes, zucchini noodles, or with a side of rice, the velvety sauce clings to each bite, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. The balance of garlic, Parmesan, and cream offers a comforting yet bold flavor profile that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet Ingredients

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally (to make 4 pieces)
  • 4 tablespoons flour
  • 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 whole head of garlic, peeled and divided into 10-12 cloves (smashed)
  • 1 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet

  • Season the Chicken: Halve the chicken breasts and season both sides with salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and pepper.
  • Dredge in Flour: In a shallow dish, combine the flour and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan. Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess.
  • Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a warm plate and set aside.
  • Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened. Add the smashed garlic cloves and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  • Deglaze with Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the broth reduce by half, about 5 minutes.
  • Make the Cream Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low, then stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Add the remaining Parmesan and cook until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
  • Finish and Serve: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Let simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Cooking Tips

  • Chicken Thickness: For even cooking, ensure the chicken breasts are of uniform thickness. You can pound them to an even thickness if needed.
  • Variations: Feel free to add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
  • Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
  • Pair with garlic bread and a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a complete meal.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the sauce's consistency.
  • Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. If freezing, consider freezing the chicken and sauce separately.

Nutritional Information

  • Calories: 420
  • Protein: 37g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 135mg
  • Sodium: 850mg

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs will work great in this recipe and can add more flavor and moisture.

  • Can I make this dish in advance? While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately in advance. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving.

  • What can I substitute for heavy cream? If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative, but the sauce may be less rich.