Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe Easy One Pot Dinner

Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 4-5 garlic cloves, minced; 3/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Written by

David

Posted on August 4, 2025

Recipes

August 4, 2025

Post title

Jump to Recipe

Picture this: tender, juicy chicken bathed in a rich, creamy garlic parmesan sauce, all made in just one pot. Sounds like heaven, right? This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe is everything comfort food should be—simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Why is this recipe so special? For starters, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning fewer dishes to clean (thank me later). Plus, it’s loaded with bold flavors like garlic and parmesan, perfectly balanced by the creamy sauce that ties it all together. Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

The Story Behind Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

When I first stumbled upon a garlic parmesan sauce recipe, I was hooked. I mean, who doesn’t love the combination of garlic and cheese? It’s classic, indulgent, and utterly irresistible. Over time, I started experimenting with pairing it with different proteins, and chicken quickly became the star of the show.

This dish has roots in classic Italian cooking, where creamy sauces often feature prominently. While it’s not strictly traditional, it borrows inspiration from dishes like chicken alfredo and garlic butter chicken. What makes this version unique is its simplicity—it’s approachable for home cooks of all levels.

I’ve made this recipe countless times, tweaking it here and there to balance the flavors just right. It’s especially comforting during colder months, but honestly, I’ll make it year-round because it’s THAT good. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser. If you’re hosting dinner, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds).

So, whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly evening or just craving something creamy and delicious, this recipe is the answer. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dish, plus tips to ensure you’re using the best ingredients:

Chicken breasts or thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken works best. Thighs are juicier, but breasts are leaner—use whichever you prefer. Look for organic or free-range chicken for the best flavor.
Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic is a must. Pre-minced garlic won’t deliver the same bold flavor. Smash and mince about 4-5 cloves for that garlicky punch.
Parmesan cheese: Go for freshly grated parmesan rather than the pre-packaged stuff. It melts better and has a more robust flavor.
Heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce luxuriously creamy. You could substitute with half-and-half, but the sauce will be slightly thinner.
Chicken broth: Adds depth to the sauce. Low-sodium is ideal so you can control the saltiness.
Butter: A couple of tablespoons of unsalted butter will help sauté the garlic and keep the sauce rich.
Olive oil: For searing the chicken. Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Feel free to adjust to your taste.
Fresh parsley: Optional, but it adds a nice pop of color and freshness to the final dish.

Pro tip: If you don’t have heavy cream, you can combine whole milk and a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch as a substitute. It won’t be quite as rich, but it’ll still be delicious.

Equipment You’ll Need

Let’s keep it simple—this recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets:

Large skillet or sauté pan: A good-quality, deep skillet is perfect for this one-pot dish. Non-stick or stainless steel both work well.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring the sauce without scratching your pan.
Tongs: For flipping the chicken and ensuring an even sear.
Microplane or cheese grater: To freshly grate the parmesan cheese.

If you’re in the market for a skillet, I recommend investing in a cast iron pan—it retains heat beautifully and lasts forever with proper care. Just make sure to clean and season it regularly!

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Prep the chicken: Season your chicken breasts or thighs generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).
Make the sauce: Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add the parmesan: Gradually whisk in ¾ cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Return the chicken to the skillet: Nestle the chicken back into the sauce. Spoon some sauce over the top and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C internal temperature).
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite side dish.

And there you have it—an easy, one-pot dinner that’s full of flavor!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Want to make sure your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken turns out perfectly every time? Here are some tried-and-true tips:

Don’t overcrowd the pan: If your chicken pieces are too close together, they’ll steam instead of sear. Work in batches if needed.
Let the chicken rest: After searing, let the chicken rest on a plate for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy.
Season gradually: Taste the sauce as you go and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
Use fresh garlic: The flavor of fresh garlic is unbeatable. Pre-minced garlic just won’t cut it for this recipe.
Low and slow: Once the sauce is simmering, keep the heat low to prevent curdling.

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is super versatile, so feel free to make it your own:

Keto-friendly: Skip the chicken broth and use more heavy cream for an ultra-rich, low-carb version.
Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for pan-seared tofu or roasted veggies like zucchini and mushrooms.
Spicy twist: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for some heat.
Herbaceous: Stir in fresh basil or thyme for a fragrant twist.

One of my favorite variations? Adding a handful of spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This dish is best served hot and fresh, but here’s how to make the most of leftovers:

Serving suggestions: Pair with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up all that creamy sauce. Steamed veggies or a simple green salad make great sides, too.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving—it can make the chicken rubbery.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

While this dish leans towards indulgence, it also offers some nutritional perks:

Protein-packed: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein.
Rich in calcium: Thanks to the parmesan and cream.
Low-carb option: Perfect for those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle.

Keep in mind, this recipe contains dairy and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance. You can experiment with dairy-free cream alternatives if needed.

Conclusion

So, why not make tonight special with this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken? It’s comforting, flavorful, and so easy to whip up. Plus, it’s a one-pot recipe, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Leave a comment below or share your photos on social media. Don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your creations. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work wonderfully in this recipe.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and sear the chicken in advance. Store them separately and combine when ready to reheat.

What pasta pairs well with this dish?

Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti are excellent choices to soak up the creamy sauce.

Can I freeze leftovers?

The sauce may separate slightly upon thawing, but it’s still delicious. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

How can I make this dairy-free?

Try using coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and parmesan. The flavor will be slightly different but still tasty!