Creamy Parmesan Chicken

This Creamy Parmesan Chicken is a rich and indulgent dish that combines tender, perfectly cooked chicken breasts with a luscious Parmesan sauce. Quick to make and full of flavor, this dish is a guaranteed hit at any dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is everything you want in a comforting meal: juicy chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce that’s full of garlicky goodness. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that tastes like something special, and it only takes 20 minutes to make! Plus, the sauce is absolutely delicious over rice, pasta, or a simple side salad.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless chicken breasts

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish

directions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.

3. Cook the chicken in the skillet for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

4. Reduce the heat and add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan to the skillet. Stir to combine, ensuring the chicken is coated in the creamy sauce.

5. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken and coat the chicken in a rich, cheesy sauce.

6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: 350 kcal

Variations

• Herb-infused: Add a pinch of dried oregano, thyme, or basil to the sauce for extra flavor.

• Mushroom addition: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the chicken for added texture and taste.

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.

• Low-carb version: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of pasta or rice.

• Cheese upgrade: Mix in a bit of mozzarella or Gruyère for a cheesier sauce.

storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work well and add a bit more juiciness to the dish.

Can I make this dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, use a dairy-free cream substitute and dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and cook the chicken in batches if needed.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal for the best texture and flavor, but pre-grated will work if needed.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, adding sautéed spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers would be a great addition for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

Use a meat thermometer—chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can make the sauce ahead and reheat with the chicken before serving.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, the chicken and sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

What should I serve this with?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with Romano or Pecorino for a different twist.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Chicken is the ultimate comfort food—rich, cheesy, and full of flavor. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can make a meal that feels indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.

Creamy Parmesan Chicken

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Creamy Parmesan Chicken is an indulgent yet easy-to-make dish featuring juicy chicken breasts smothered in a rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, this comforting recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or a fresh side salad. With its creamy texture and bold flavors, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

4 boneless chicken breasts

1 tbsp olive oil

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

• Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.

• Cook the chicken in the skillet for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

• Reduce the heat and add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan to the skillet. Stir to combine, ensuring the chicken is coated in the creamy sauce.

• Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken and coat the chicken in a rich, cheesy sauce.

• Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of dried oregano, thyme, or basil to the sauce.

• For texture, sauté some sliced mushrooms with the chicken.

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

• For a low-carb version, serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of pasta or rice.

• Upgrade the cheese by mixing in some mozzarella or Gruyère for a cheesier sauce.

• Author: Sophia
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Dish, Comfort Food
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American, Italian
• Diet: Gluten Free