A Savory, Creamy One-Pan Meal That’s Quick, Comforting, and Full of Flavor
Looking for a dinner recipe that’s simple, flavorful, and feels like a restaurant-quality dish—without all the hassle? This Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts recipe is the answer. With tender chicken, a rich Parmesan garlic cream sauce, and just one skillet needed, this meal comes together fast and satisfies everyone at the table.
Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something impressive but easy, this dish delivers big on comfort and taste. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your skillet, and let’s get started!
Tools, Servings, and Cooking Time
Servings: 2–3 people
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Tools You’ll Need:
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Tongs or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Grater (for fresh Parmesan)
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps ensure a good sear in the pan. Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Cover lightly with foil to keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Avoid browning the garlic, which can make it bitter.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to deglaze the pan and lift up the flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3–5 minutes. As it reduces, the sauce will begin to thicken and develop a richer texture.
Step 5: Add the Parmesan Cheese
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. The Parmesan adds a nice savory depth to the cream sauce, but you can always add a pinch of crushed red pepper if you like a little heat.
Step 6: Return the Chicken
Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet with the sauce. Spoon the sauce over the top and let the dish simmer together for an additional 3–4 minutes. This lets the chicken soak up all that creamy garlic flavor.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and a touch of freshness. Serve hot with your choice of side dishes.
Recommendations for Recipe Success
- Use Room Temperature Chicken: Cold chicken straight from the fridge can cook unevenly. Letting it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes helps it cook more evenly.
- Don’t Skip the Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These seasonings build the flavor base for the chicken before it even hits the pan.
- Deglaze the Pan Thoroughly: When adding broth and cream, make sure to scrape up all those flavorful brown bits—they’re culinary gold.
- Grate Your Own Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts better and has superior flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
- Let the Sauce Simmer, Not Boil: A gentle simmer thickens the sauce without breaking the cream or curdling.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
This creamy garlic chicken is super versatile and pairs beautifully with:
- Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta
- Steamed rice or buttered noodles
- Roasted vegetables or a crisp side salad
- Garlic bread or crusty artisan rolls to soak up that sauce
Storage Instructions:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency. Avoid microwaving too long, as it may dry out the chicken.
- Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. The cream sauce may separate when frozen and thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work just as well and tend to be more forgiving when it comes to staying juicy. You may need to cook them a minute or two longer.
2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be thinner. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream is a good alternative, though it will slightly change the flavor profile.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but for best results, reheat gently and combine them just before serving. This keeps the sauce creamy and prevents overcooked chicken.
4. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should read 165°F. You can also cut into the thickest part to ensure there’s no pink and the juices run clear.
5. Can I double this recipe for more people?
Absolutely. Just use a larger skillet and cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can steam rather than sear the meat.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts recipe is a true kitchen gem—simple, elegant, and loaded with flavor. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy enough for date night but easy enough for a Tuesday evening. The garlic butter Parmesan sauce brings the perfect blend of richness and comfort, making this a go-to favorite for many home cooks.
If you’re looking for a one-pan dish that checks all the boxes—creamy, garlicky, comforting, and quick to make—this recipe is for you. Customize it with your favorite sides or add-ins, and you’ve got a dish that can please any palate.
Ready to wow your dinner crowd (or just treat yourself)? Fire up that skillet and get cooking—this creamy garlic chicken is bound to become a regular in your meal rotation.
