It is 6pm. You are tired. Dinner needs to happen fast. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken is your new best friend. It delivers a rich, restaurant-quality meal in just 30 minutes. Your family will think you spent hours in the kitchen.
This dish is perfect for a cozy fall evening. The warm, savory aroma will fill your home instantly. It is the ultimate way to end a busy day. You deserve a meal that feels like a big hug.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a total winner for busy fall weeknights. It uses simple pantry staples you likely already have. The sauce is velvety, golden, and packed with savory flavor. Even picky eaters will ask for seconds. You only need one skillet to make this magic happen. It is the ultimate comfort food for a chilly evening.
Simple Method
Making this dish is incredibly straightforward and stress-free. You start by searing the chicken until it is golden brown. Then, you whisk together a quick cream sauce in the same pan. The browned bits from the chicken add so much extra flavor. Even if you are a beginner, you can master this easily. You will feel like a pro chef in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You likely have most of these ingredients in your kitchen right now. Fresh produce and simple dairy create the best flavor.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken cutlets
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Step-by-Step
- Season chicken cutlets on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken for 5 to 7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic, cooking for 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes, scraping the bottom of the pan to release browned bits.
- Simmer sauce for 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Whisk in grated parmesan cheese until fully melted and integrated.
- Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This dish is perfect over a bed of buttery pasta. You can also serve it with roasted broccoli or asparagus. Don’t forget a slice of crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Set the table, dim the lights, and enjoy a cozy meal. It makes any Tuesday night feel like a special occasion.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed. This dish is great for easy weekday lunches the next day. I do not recommend freezing the cream sauce.
Tips for Best Results
- Grate your own cheese for the smoothest sauce possible.
- Pat your chicken dry before seasoning for a better sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the chicken.
- Add a handful of fresh spinach to the sauce for extra color.
- For Thanksgiving, double the batch to feed a larger crowd.
- Deglaze the pan well to get all those flavorful browned bits.
- Let the chicken rest for two minutes before serving.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter meal.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon for a bright finish.
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier and richer flavor.
- Mix in some mushrooms during the garlic step.
Common Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of cutlets?
Yes, you can certainly use full breasts. Simply slice them in half horizontally to make them thinner. This ensures they cook quickly and evenly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe as written is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your spices and cheese for any additives. Serve it over rice or potatoes to keep it that way.
How do I keep the sauce from breaking?
Keep the heat on medium or lower when adding the cheese. Whisk constantly until the parmesan is fully melted. Do not let the sauce come to a rolling boil after the cheese is added.
I hope this cozy recipe brightens your fall evenings. Give it a try and let every bite warm you up. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken cutlets
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season chicken cutlets on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken for 5 to 7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic, cooking for 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes, scraping the bottom of the pan to release browned bits.
- Simmer sauce for 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Whisk in grated parmesan cheese until fully melted and integrated.
- Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
