Weeknight dinners don’t have to be a stressful ordeal. Enter Creamy Parmesan Chicken—a one-skillet wonder that’s bursting with flavor and ready in just 30 minutes. Whether paired with pasta, rice, or a side of veggies, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Parmesan Chicken

This recipe ticks all the boxes for a perfect dinner: it’s quick, easy, and packed with deliciousness. The creamy Parmesan sauce is rich and indulgent, while the tender, golden chicken offers just the right balance. Plus, the whole meal comes together in a single skillet, meaning fewer dishes to clean—a win-win!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to serve 4 people:

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
  • Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Chicken

Follow these steps for a quick and foolproof dinner:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Lightly dredge each piece in flour, shaking off any excess. This step helps create a golden crust and thickens the sauce.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken.
  2. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and nearly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan! If needed, cook the chicken in batches to get that perfect sear.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Stir in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze and incorporate those flavorful brown bits.
  3. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Finish the Dish

  1. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce.
  2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, spooning the sauce over the chicken occasionally, until fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  3. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Parmesan Chicken is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

  • Pasta: Toss the sauce with spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne for a creamy pasta dish.
  • Rice: Serve over fluffy white rice or a hearty pilaf to soak up the sauce.
  • Mashed Potatoes: The rich sauce is perfect for drizzling over creamy mashed potatoes.
  • Veggies: Pair with steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or roasted asparagus for a lighter option.

Tips for Success

  1. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Searing it first ensures it stays juicy, and simmering in the sauce helps finish the cooking gently.
  2. Fresh Parmesan Works Best: Grate your own Parmesan for the creamiest, smoothest sauce—pre-shredded cheese may not melt as well.
  3. Make It Your Own: Add mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach for extra flavor and texture.

FAQs About Creamy Parmesan Chicken

1. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. For a creamier consistency, mix milk with a little cornstarch or use half-and-half.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.

3. Can I use a different protein?

Sure! This recipe works well with pork chops, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.

The Final Bite

Creamy Parmesan Chicken is everything you need in a weeknight dinner: quick, comforting, and oh-so-delicious. With its velvety sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation. Plus, it’s flexible enough to adapt to your favorite sides or additions.

Give this recipe a try and let me know how you enjoyed it! Did it become your new family favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Happy cooking!