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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken (One-Skillet Version)

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes Servings: 4 servings
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Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients
  • For the Chicken:
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • For the Sauce:
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour optional for thickening
  • 1 cup 240 ml chicken broth
  • 1 cup 240 ml heavy cream
  • ½ cup 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 cup 30 g baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes (optional add-ins)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Directions
  2. Prepare the Chicken
  3. Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  4. Sear the Chicken
  5. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  6. Add chicken and cook 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (165°F / 74°C internal temperature). Remove from skillet and set aside.
  7. Make the Sauce Base
  8. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  9. If desired, sprinkle in flour and stir for 30 seconds to create a slight thickener.
  10. Add Liquids
  11. Slowly pour in chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan. Add heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir gently until smooth and slightly thickened (3–4 minutes).
  12. Combine & Finish
  13. Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes if using, and simmer until wilted. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over top. Simmer 2–3 minutes more.
  14. Serve
  15. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Notes

Chef’s Tip
• For a baked version, transfer seared chicken to a casserole dish, pour sauce on top, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
• Add mushrooms or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra depth.
• The sauce thickens as it cools — if reheating, add a splash of cream or broth.
• Great meal-prep dish: pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or noodles.