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If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, let me introduce you to the Savory Garlic Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe. This delightful meal features tender, golden-brown chicken breasts smothered in a rich, luscious sauce bursting with garlic, Parmesan, and a touch of thyme. It’s comfort food elevated with layers of flavor that make every bite a celebration. Perfect for weeknights or impressing friends, this recipe strikes an irresistible balance between simplicity and sophistication.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem straightforward, but each plays a crucial role in building the deep, savory, and creamy flavors that make this dish truly unforgettable. From the garlic’s aromatic punch to the Parmesan’s nutty richness, every element contributes to the perfect harmony on your plate.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show, juicy and tender when cooked just right.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For a golden sear that locks in the chicken’s moisture and flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds an aromatic depth that elevates the sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, indulgent base of the Parmesan sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Helps balance the richness with a light savory undertone.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings sharp, nutty flavor and thickens the sauce naturally.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A hint of earthiness that perfectly complements the creamy garlic notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Provides a fresh, vibrant finish and a pop of color.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Enriches the sauce and adds a smooth, velvety texture.
How to Make Savory Garlic Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil warms, pat each chicken breast dry with a paper towel to ensure the perfect sear. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper — this foundation of seasoning is key to the chicken’s juicy, flavorful crust.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Carefully lay the chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes until they turn a mouthwatering golden brown and are cooked through. This step locks in the juices while creating the delicious crust that balances the creamy sauce so well. Remove the chicken from the skillet and cover it with foil to keep it warm.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and let it sauté for 1-2 minutes. The aroma you’ll get here is an irresistible preview of what’s coming. Next, pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to loosen all those tasty browned bits. This deglazing step is essential for depth of flavor.
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Then, add your Parmesan cheese and dried thyme. Stir consistently until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens into a silky, creamy masterpiece. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed to give the sauce that perfectly balanced punch.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them in the creamy sauce. Add the butter last, stirring it in until the sauce becomes luxuriously smooth. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes so the chicken soaks up all that mouthwatering flavor. Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a fresh burst of color and brightness.
How to Serve Savory Garlic Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is a simple but game-changing garnish that adds a light, herbaceous touch to the rich sauce. You can also sprinkle a little extra freshly grated Parmesan to boost the cheesy goodness or even a tiny drizzle of high-quality olive oil for a subtle sheen.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with garlic mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or buttered pasta to soak up every bit of the luscious sauce. For a lighter side, steamed green beans or sautéed spinach offer a satisfying contrast in texture and color. The key is to choose something that complements but doesn’t overpower this decadent main course.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the chicken nestled on a bed of herb-infused risotto or atop a fluffy mound of rice pilaf. For an elegant touch, use a shallow white bowl that showcases the creamy sauce beautifully. Alternatively, plate the chicken with a swirl of sauce around the edge to create a restaurant-worthy presentation at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep well for up to 3 days without losing its delicious flavors or creamy texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but it’s best to freeze the sauce separately from the chicken to maintain the sauce’s silky consistency. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and it should last for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat the Savory Garlic Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe slowly on the stove over low heat to prevent the cream from separating. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce seems too thick. Avoid microwaving directly if possible, or use short bursts on low power with gentle stirring.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and remain moist, which can be a delicious variation. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, the main components of this dish are naturally low in carbohydrates, especially if you serve it with non-starchy sides like steamed vegetables or salads.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it won’t be as thick or rich. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream, keeping in mind it will slightly change the flavor profile.
How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
Heat the sauce gently and avoid boiling after adding the cream and cheese. Stir frequently to keep everything combined and smooth.
Can I make this recipe ahead for a dinner party?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and cook the chicken a few hours in advance, then gently reheat and combine before serving, ensuring your guests enjoy it fresh and warm.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this Savory Garlic Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe as much as I do. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy yet comes together effortlessly, perfect for any occasion that calls for comfort and a touch of indulgence. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a favorite in your home too!
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Savory Garlic Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and creamy garlic chicken recipe featuring tender boneless chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection and served in a rich, flavorful Parmesan cream sauce infused with garlic and thyme. This skillet dish is quick to prepare, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Dry the chicken breasts: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, ensuring better browning.
- Season the chicken: Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt and black pepper for balanced flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Place the chicken breasts carefully in the hot skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Remove and keep warm: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm while preparing the sauce.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Deglaze the skillet: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any flavorful browned bits.
- Add cream and simmer: Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Incorporate Parmesan and thyme: Add grated Parmesan cheese and dried thyme, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce and add additional salt and black pepper if desired.
- Return chicken to skillet: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce over them.
- Add butter for richness: Stir in the butter until it melts completely, creating a smooth and glossy sauce.
- Simmer together: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are patted dry to achieve a nice sear and golden crust.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best melting and flavor.
- Adjust cream thickness by simmering the sauce longer if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or over pasta/rice to make a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
