Creamy Parmesan Chicken: A Comforting One-Pan Dinner

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When it comes to cozy, satisfying meals that taste like they came straight out of a restaurant kitchen, Creamy Parmesan Chicken is at the top of the list. Perfectly seared chicken breasts smothered in a silky Parmesan cream sauce with garlic and Italian herbs—it’s rich, flavorful, and ready in less than 40 minutes.

This recipe is inspired by my favorite Italian trattoria, where I first had chicken simmered in a cheesy, garlic-kissed cream sauce over a plate of fettuccine. The balance of juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and nutty Parmesan was unforgettable, and I set out to recreate it at home. The result is this Creamy Parmesan Chicken recipe that has become a family favorite.

Whether you serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or with a side of roasted veggies, this dish is a comfort food classic you’ll turn to again and again.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Parmesan Chicken

• One-pan recipe: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

• Restaurant quality: Fancy enough for guests, easy enough for weeknights.

• Family-friendly: Creamy, cheesy, and mild enough for picky eaters.

• Versatile: Works with pasta, rice, potatoes, or bread.

• Quick and easy: On the table in under 40 minutes.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier results)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

For the Parmesan Cream Sauce:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon flour (to thicken)

• ¾ cup chicken broth (low-sodium)

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter sauce)

• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F/74°C).

4. Remove from the skillet and set aside, tented with foil to stay warm.

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Step 2: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce

1. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk to combine, cooking for 1 minute to form a roux.

3. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan.

4. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 4–5 minutes until thickened.

5. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

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Step 3: Combine and Simmer

1. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over each piece.

2. Cover and simmer on low heat for 3–5 minutes to meld flavors and reheat the chicken.

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Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

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What to Serve with Creamy Parmesan Chicken

This versatile dish works with almost anything, but here are some delicious pairings:

Pasta & Grains

• Fettuccine, penne, or linguine

• Garlic butter rice

• Creamy risotto

• Quinoa or couscous

Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes

• Roasted garlic baby potatoes

• Parmesan potato wedges

Vegetables

• Steamed broccoli or asparagus

• Roasted Brussels sprouts

• Spinach sautéed with garlic

Bread

• Crusty baguette

• Garlic breadsticks

• Focaccia

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Tips for Success

• Pound chicken breasts to even thickness so they cook evenly.

• Use freshly grated Parmesan—pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

• Don’t rush the sauce—let it simmer gently until it reaches a creamy consistency.

• Double the sauce if serving over pasta (you’ll thank yourself later!).

• Taste as you go—Parmesan is naturally salty, so adjust seasoning carefully.

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Recipe Variations

Creamy Parmesan Mushroom Chicken

Add 1 cup of sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy, savory variation.

Spinach Parmesan Chicken

Stir in a handful of fresh spinach right before adding the chicken back to the pan.

Bacon Parmesan Chicken

Cook 3–4 strips of chopped bacon first, remove, and then prepare the dish as directed. Stir the bacon back into the sauce at the end.

Lemon Parmesan Chicken

Add 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice and zest to brighten the sauce.

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Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating

Make-Ahead

• Chicken can be seared up to a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

• Sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated separately.

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating

• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

• Microwave on 50% power in short intervals, stirring between bursts.

Freezing

• Not ideal because cream sauces can separate, but if you do freeze it, reheat slowly and stir well.

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Healthier Options

• Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.

• Swap chicken breasts for chicken tenders to reduce cooking time.

• Add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or broccoli to balance richness.

• Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Thighs are juicier and add more flavor. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Add extra flour or Parmesan to help thicken.

What pasta pairs best with this dish?

Fettuccine or penne works beautifully, but any pasta will soak up the sauce deliciously.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes—swap the flour for cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

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Conclusion: A Creamy Classic You’ll Crave Again and Again

This Creamy Parmesan Chicken is the ultimate comfort food: juicy chicken, rich and cheesy sauce, and endless serving possibilities. It’s easy enough for a quick weeknight meal yet elegant enough to serve to guests with a glass of wine and fresh bread.

If you’re looking for a meal that delivers cozy comfort and gourmet flavors all in one skillet, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.

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Loved this recipe? Save it for your next weeknight dinner or share it with your fellow food lovers. Looking for more creamy, comforting chicken dishes? Try our Creamy Tuscan Chicken, Creamy Garlic Chicken, or Creamy Mushroom Chicken!

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