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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet

creamy garlic parmesan chicken skillet - featured image

A quick and easy 30-minute dinner featuring tender chicken breasts in a rich, garlicky parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for cozy meals that impress without fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds / 680 grams)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth (240 ml), low sodium recommended
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml) or half-and-half for lighter option
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (about 100 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once shimmering, add chicken breasts carefully.
  3. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes on the first side without moving to develop a golden crust.
  4. Flip the chicken using tongs and cook another 5 minutes. The chicken will not be fully cooked yet but should be firm to the touch.
  5. Remove chicken from skillet and tent with foil to keep warm.
  6. Lower heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. When melted, add minced garlic and stir constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  7. Pour in chicken broth slowly, scraping browned bits from the pan. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  8. Stir in heavy cream and dried Italian herbs. Allow sauce to gently simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens lightly.
  9. Gradually whisk in freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  10. Return chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon sauce over chicken and cook on low heat for 3-4 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  11. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving.

Notes

Do not crowd the pan to ensure a good sear. Pat chicken dry before seasoning. Use fresh minced garlic and freshly grated parmesan for best flavor and sauce texture. Keep sauce at a gentle simmer to prevent curdling. If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition

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