Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet Delight

Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup baby spinach; to taste chopped parsley for garnish

October 21, 2025December 2, 2024 by Rachel

Welcome to my kitchen, where I’ll show you how to make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet Delight! This dish is packed with flavor from garlic, parmesan, and tender chicken. It’s simple yet satisfying, perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests. I’ll guide you through each step, provide tips for perfect results, and share variations to keep things exciting. Let’s get started on this creamy adventure!

Why I Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken is quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Sauce: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a rich and delicious sauce that elevates the dish.
Versatile Dish: Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Healthy Spinach: The addition of baby spinach not only adds color but also boosts the nutritional value of the dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients List

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

The main ingredients are simple yet packed with flavor. Chicken breasts give a nice base. Olive oil helps cook the chicken. Garlic adds a strong taste, while heavy cream and Parmesan create a rich sauce.

Seasonings

– 1 teaspoon dried basil

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Seasonings make this dish shine. Dried basil and Italian seasoning bring warmth and depth. Salt and pepper enhance the other flavors.

Optional Garnish

– 1 cup baby spinach

– Chopped parsley for garnish

Adding baby spinach gives a fresh touch. Chopped parsley brightens the dish and adds color. You can use these for a lovely presentation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

First, let’s season the chicken. Take four boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Sprinkle them with salt and black pepper. This will add flavor.

Next, heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook each side for about six to seven minutes. You want them to be golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Making the Creamy Sauce

Now, let’s make the sauce. In the same skillet, add four cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for one to two minutes. You want it fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.

Then, pour in one cup of heavy cream while stirring constantly. Bring this to a gentle simmer. Next, gradually whisk in one cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.

Add one teaspoon of dried basil and one teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Mix these into the sauce thoroughly.

Combining Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring it all together. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Lower the heat to low and let them simmer in the creamy sauce for about five minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb all those rich flavors.

Finally, add one cup of baby spinach to the skillet. Stir gently until the spinach wilts and combines with the sauce. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Your creamy garlic Parmesan chicken skillet is almost ready to serve!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken

To cook chicken just right, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. This ensures your chicken stays juicy and safe to eat.

To avoid dry chicken, let it rest after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute. Also, be careful not to overcook it. The skillet should be hot but not too hot.

Sauce Consistency Tips

If you want a creamier sauce, add more heavy cream. You can start with half a cup more. This will give your dish a rich flavor.

To thicken the sauce, consider using cornstarch. Mix one tablespoon with cold water, then stir it in. Let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with crusty bread or pasta. Both options soak up the creamy sauce well.

For plating, use wide bowls. Drizzle extra sauce over the chicken for a nice touch. Garnish with chopped parsley for color. It makes the dish look fresh and inviting.

Pro Tips

Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Enhance the Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Creamy Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Spinach Substitutes: Feel free to substitute baby spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different texture and flavor in the dish.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can change the chicken if you want. Try using turkey or tofu for a twist. Both options work well with the creamy sauce. If you need a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or cashew cream. These swaps keep the dish rich and tasty.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost flavors, add herbs like thyme or rosemary. These herbs give a fresh taste. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for heat. If you enjoy more veggies, toss in mushrooms or bell peppers. They add crunch and color to your meal.

Recipe Modifications

Want to make it spicy? Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. That will fire up your dish! You can also choose to cook it in the oven. Just place the chicken in a baking dish with sauce and bake until cooked. This method gives a different texture.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your creamy garlic Parmesan chicken fresh, follow these tips:

– Best practices for refrigeration: Place leftovers in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure the chicken cools down before sealing the container. This step helps prevent moisture build-up.

– Freezing options: You can freeze the chicken too! Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It lasts for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Instructions

Reheating your chicken correctly keeps it tasty.

– How to reheat in skillet: Heat a skillet over low to medium heat. Add a splash of cream or broth to keep it moist. Place the chicken in the skillet, cover, and heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning it gently.

– Microwave reheating tips: If you choose the microwave, use a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking after each 30 seconds to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Common Questions

How long does it take to cook chicken in a skillet?

It takes about 12 to 14 minutes to cook chicken in a skillet. Make sure to cook each side for 6 to 7 minutes. This timing gives you juicy chicken that is golden brown.

Can I use fresh garlic instead of minced?

Yes, you can use fresh garlic. Just chop 4 cloves of fresh garlic and sauté them in the skillet. Fresh garlic adds a bright flavor to the dish.

What to do if the sauce is too thick/thin?

If the sauce is too thick, add a little more heavy cream. If it is too thin, simmer it longer to thicken. Stir constantly to help it reach the right consistency.

Recipe Adjustments

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead. Cook the chicken and sauce, then store them in the fridge. Reheat before serving for the best taste.

How can I serve this dish for a larger group?

To serve more people, simply double the recipe. Cook the chicken in batches if your skillet is small. This way, everyone enjoys the creamy goodness.

Nutritional Information

How many calories per serving?

This dish has about 450 calories per serving. The creamy sauce and chicken make it rich and satisfying.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is gluten-free. All the ingredients are safe for those who avoid gluten. Enjoy without worry!

This blog provided you with a great recipe to make a creamy chicken dish. You learned about the key ingredients, cooking instructions, and helpful tips for success. Variations and storage advice ensure you can customize this meal. Use these ideas to impress your loved ones at dinner. Remember, cooking is about enjoying your time in the kitchen. Happy cookin

$- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese The main ingredients are simple yet packed with flavor. Chicken breasts give a nice base. Olive oil helps cook the chicken. Garlic adds a strong taste, while heavy cream and Parmesan create a rich sauce. - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Seasonings make this dish shine. Dried basil and Italian seasoning bring warmth and depth. Salt and pepper enhance the other flavors. - 1 cup baby spinach - Chopped parsley for garnish Adding baby spinach gives a fresh touch. Chopped parsley brightens the dish and adds color. You can use these for a lovely presentation. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, let's season the chicken. Take four boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Sprinkle them with salt and black pepper. This will add flavor. Next, heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook each side for about six to seven minutes. You want them to be golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Now, let’s make the sauce. In the same skillet, add four cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for one to two minutes. You want it fragrant, but be careful not to burn it. Then, pour in one cup of heavy cream while stirring constantly. Bring this to a gentle simmer. Next, gradually whisk in one cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Add one teaspoon of dried basil and one teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Mix these into the sauce thoroughly. Now it’s time to bring it all together. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Lower the heat to low and let them simmer in the creamy sauce for about five minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb all those rich flavors. Finally, add one cup of baby spinach to the skillet. Stir gently until the spinach wilts and combines with the sauce. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Your creamy garlic Parmesan chicken skillet is almost ready to serve! To cook chicken just right, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. This ensures your chicken stays juicy and safe to eat. To avoid dry chicken, let it rest after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute. Also, be careful not to overcook it. The skillet should be hot but not too hot. If you want a creamier sauce, add more heavy cream. You can start with half a cup more. This will give your dish a rich flavor. To thicken the sauce, consider using cornstarch. Mix one tablespoon with cold water, then stir it in. Let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens. Pair this dish with crusty bread or pasta. Both options soak up the creamy sauce well. For plating, use wide bowls. Drizzle extra sauce over the chicken for a nice touch. Garnish with chopped parsley for color. It makes the dish look fresh and inviting. Pro Tips Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Enhance the Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Creamy Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Spinach Substitutes: Feel free to substitute baby spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different texture and flavor in the dish. {{image_2}} You can change the chicken if you want. Try using turkey or tofu for a twist. Both options work well with the creamy sauce. If you need a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or cashew cream. These swaps keep the dish rich and tasty. To boost flavors, add herbs like thyme or rosemary. These herbs give a fresh taste. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for heat. If you enjoy more veggies, toss in mushrooms or bell peppers. They add crunch and color to your meal. Want to make it spicy? Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. That will fire up your dish! You can also choose to cook it in the oven. Just place the chicken in a baking dish with sauce and bake until cooked. This method gives a different texture. To keep your creamy garlic Parmesan chicken fresh, follow these tips: - Best practices for refrigeration: Place leftovers in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure the chicken cools down before sealing the container. This step helps prevent moisture build-up. - Freezing options: You can freeze the chicken too! Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It lasts for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheating your chicken correctly keeps it tasty. - How to reheat in skillet: Heat a skillet over low to medium heat. Add a splash of cream or broth to keep it moist. Place the chicken in the skillet, cover, and heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning it gently. - Microwave reheating tips: If you choose the microwave, use a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking after each 30 seconds to avoid overcooking. How long does it take to cook chicken in a skillet? It takes about 12 to 14 minutes to cook chicken in a skillet. Make sure to cook each side for 6 to 7 minutes. This timing gives you juicy chicken that is golden brown. Can I use fresh garlic instead of minced? Yes, you can use fresh garlic. Just chop 4 cloves of fresh garlic and sauté them in the skillet. Fresh garlic adds a bright flavor to the dish. What to do if the sauce is too thick/thin? If the sauce is too thick, add a little more heavy cream. If it is too thin, simmer it longer to thicken. Stir constantly to help it reach the right consistency. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make this dish ahead. Cook the chicken and sauce, then store them in the fridge. Reheat before serving for the best taste. How can I serve this dish for a larger group? To serve more people, simply double the recipe. Cook the chicken in batches if your skillet is small. This way, everyone enjoys the creamy goodness. How many calories per serving? This dish has about 450 calories per serving. The creamy sauce and chicken make it rich and satisfying. Is this dish gluten-free? Yes, this dish is gluten-free. All the ingredients are safe for those who avoid gluten. Enjoy without worry! This blog provided you with a great recipe to make a creamy chicken dish. You learned about the key ingredients, cooking instructions, and helpful tips for success. Variations and storage advice ensure you can customize this meal. Use these ideas to impress your loved ones at dinner. Remember, cooking is about enjoying your time in the kitchen. Happy cooking!$