This rich and flavorful Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a delightful dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The perfectly seasoned chicken, smothered in a luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce, makes for a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Chicken
- For the Sauce
- For Garnish
- How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Step 3: Simmer the Chicken
- Step 4: Serve
- How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- With Steamed Vegetables
- Over Pasta
- With Mashed Potatoes
- In a Salad
- How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Reheating Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
- Can I use other types of cheese?
- Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
- How can I customize this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for those busy evenings.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a creamy sauce that enhances the chicken’s taste.
- Versatile Pairings: Serve it with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this delicious chicken dish, making it perfect for family dinners.
- One-Pan Wonder: With minimal cleanup required, you can enjoy more time with your loved ones after dinner.
Tools and Preparation
To make this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that the cooking process goes smoothly and efficiently.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows you to cook the chicken evenly and simmer the sauce without overcrowding.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your creamy sauce.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For Garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; stir well.
- Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese while stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in Italian seasoning to enhance flavor.
Step 3: Simmer the Chicken
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Let them simmer in the creamy sauce until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Step 4: Serve
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken immediately!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a versatile dish that can be paired with various sides to enhance its rich flavors. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
With Steamed Vegetables
- Broccoli: Bright green and crunchy, steamed broccoli adds a fresh contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Green Beans: Tender green beans provide a crisp texture that complements the chicken beautifully.
Over Pasta
- Fettuccine: Smooth and creamy fettuccine absorbs the rich sauce, making every bite decadent.
- Penne: The tube shape of penne holds onto the sauce, ensuring a burst of flavor in every forkful.
With Mashed Potatoes
- Classic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a comforting base to soak up the garlic-Parmesan sauce.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For an extra kick, try mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic.
In a Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Parmesan and croutons pairs well with the chicken’s flavors.
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the dish.
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Perfecting your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken takes just a few simple steps. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese significantly enhance the flavor of your sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook until golden brown and just done to keep it juicy and tender.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning according to your preference.
- Simmer Gently: Allowing the chicken to simmer in the sauce helps meld the flavors together without drying out the meat.
- Add Spinach or Mushrooms: Toss in some fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor depth.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot straight from the skillet.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Pairing sides with your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken enhances its overall appeal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this flavorful dish.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice pilaf adds a nutty flavor that balances out the creaminess of the chicken.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes offer a hearty side that pairs well with rich sauces.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad brings freshness and texture to your plate.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the chicken.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that’s light yet satisfying, great for soaking up flavors without overwhelming them.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken can be simple, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken can lead to bland results. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Overcooking the chicken: Chicken can become dry if overcooked. Cook until golden brown and just cooked through.
- Using low-quality Parmesan: Aged or freshly grated Parmesan adds depth. Avoid using pre-grated cheese for better flavor.
- Rushing the sauce preparation: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps develop flavor. Don’t skip this step; patience pays off!
- Neglecting to garnish: Skipping the parsley makes your dish less appealing. A simple sprinkle adds color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed throughout.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
- Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions
What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
You can serve this dish with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a complete meal.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute with cheese like mozzarella or Asiago for different flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge and reheats nicely, making it a great meal prep option.
How can I customize this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
Feel free to add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition!
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it based on your preferences by adding different vegetables or spices. Try making this delicious dish tonight; you won’t be disappointed!
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines succulent chicken breasts with a rich, velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the chicken, creating a comforting meal that your family will adore. Pair it with steamed vegetables, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying dinner that everyone will remember.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown (about 6-7 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add heavy cream and chicken broth; stir well.
- Gradually mix in Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (200g)
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 150mg