Description
Juicy, golden chicken bathed in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, this one-pan recipe is perfect for busy nights when you crave comfort food with minimal cleanup. Serve it with your favorite sides for a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season both sides of the chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 3–4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately. Pair with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Chicken Options: Bone-in chicken can be used but will require longer cooking time.
- Sauce Adjustments: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If too thin, simmer a little longer.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter, coconut cream, and dairy-free Parmesan for a dairy-free alternative.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One-Pan Cooking
- Cuisine: American