Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken in One Pan – Easy & Delicious

Introduction to One-Pan Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is more than just a recipe—it’s a culinary revelation for anyone seeking a quick, indulgent, and foolproof dinner. In this recipe, we bring together succulent chicken breasts, a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, and savory herbs, all cooked seamlessly in one single pan for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy one-pan chicken dish is the answer to weeknight meal fatigue.

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Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

To create this indulgent dish, gather the following fresh and pantry-staple ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken in One Pan

1. Season and Sear the Chicken

Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper.

• In a large oven-safe skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Once hot, add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and nearly cooked through.
• Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Pro Tip: If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider slicing them horizontally into cutlets for quicker, more even cooking.

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2. Sauté the Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium and melt 1 tablespoon of butter in the same pan. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

This step forms the flavor base of the sauce and ensures the garlic retains its subtle sweetness without turning bitter.

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3. Build the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Once the garlic is aromatic, pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up the golden bits left from searing the chicken—this is where flavor lives.

Next, stir in:

• Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes (if you like a mild kick)

Simmer the sauce for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and thicken. The result is a silky, velvety sauce bursting with rich, garlicky goodness.

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4. Return Chicken to the Pan

Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.

• Spoon some of the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce over the top of each piece.
• Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).

Optional: For a golden finish, transfer the pan to a preheated broiler for 2-3 minutes to lightly brown the tops.

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5. Garnish and Serve

Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley over the top for color and a hint of freshness.

Serve hot with your favorite side:

• Buttered noodles
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Steamed broccoli
• Crusty artisan bread to mop up the sauce

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Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Chicken Dinner

✔️ Easy Clean-Up

With everything cooked in one skillet, you’ll save time and cut down on dishes, making it perfect for busy nights.

✔️ Versatile and Customizable

Want to go low-carb? Swap out sides for zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash. Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to elevate the dish even further.

✔️ Perfectly Balanced Flavors

The creamy Parmesan sauce is luxuriously rich without being overpowering, and the garlic adds depth without overwhelming the palate.

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Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Use Freshly Grated Parmesan

Avoid pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds superior flavor and texture to the sauce.

Don’t Overcook the Chicken

Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness every time.

Make It Ahead

This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or chicken broth to revive the sauce.

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Serving Ideas: Complete Your Meal

Pair your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with:

• Garlic-roasted green beans and a simple Caesar salad
• Oven-roasted potatoes with rosemary
• Angel hair pasta tossed with olive oil and lemon zest

For a wine pairing, a chilled glass of Chardonnay or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this dish and often stay even more moist and flavorful.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes. Use coconut cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The flavor will vary slightly but still be delicious.

Can I freeze this dish?

While you can freeze it, the cream sauce may separate when thawed. For best texture, enjoy fresh or refrigerate leftovers instead.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 475 kcal
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 32g
• Carbs: 4g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g

(Values may vary based on modifications and side dishes.)

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Final Thoughts: An Effortless Showstopper

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken in One Pan is the epitome of comfort food, blending bold flavors and simple techniques to create a restaurant-quality meal at home.

With just a few pantry staples and a skillet, you’re 30 minutes away from a satisfying and unforgettable dinner. Add it to your weekly rotation—you won’t regret it.