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Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

Tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce for an easy and comforting weeknight dinne
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 519
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 5 cloves fresh garlic minced
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
Optional
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Baby spinach
  • Sliced mushrooms
  • Sun-dried tomatoes

Method
 

  1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry. If they are very thick, pound them to an even thickness. Season both sides with paprika, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a plate.
  3. Make the garlic sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
  4. Add the cream: Pour in the heavy cream and add Italian seasoning. Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese and simmer over medium-low heat until the sauce is creamy and slightly thickened.
  5. Finish the chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
  6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and, if desired, a little lemon juice or red pepper flakes. Serve warm with your favorite side.

Notes

  • Use chicken breasts of similar thickness so they cook evenly.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan gives the sauce a smoother texture.
  • Keep the cream sauce at a gentle simmer and avoid boiling it rapidly.
  • Always check that the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small splash of chicken broth or cream.
  • Serve with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use within 3–4 days.
  • Reheat gently over low to medium heat to help maintain the sauce's creamy texture.