This Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a comforting, restaurant-style meal you can make at home in just 30 minutes. Tender chicken breast is pan-seared until golden, then simmered in a rich, creamy garlic parmesan sauce that’s smooth, cheesy, and full of flavor.
Made in one pan with simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for weekend dinners. Serve it with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of that creamy sauce.
Checkout the recipe video
Why You’ll Love This Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
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One-pan, easy cleanup
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Ready in 30 minutes
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Ultra-creamy garlic parmesan sauce
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Family-friendly and meal-prep friendly
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Versatile for skillet, baked, thighs, or meatloaf versions
This recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients to make parmesan chicken:
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2 tbsp vegetable oil
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2 tbsp butter
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Chicken breast fillets
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Paprika powder
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Black pepper
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Salt
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Garlic, finely chopped
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250 ml heavy cream
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50 g freshly grated parmesan cheese
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½ tsp dried parsley
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½ tsp dried thyme
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Fresh parsley, for garnish
Whether you’re making this for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.
Step-by-Step Method to make juicy garlic parmesan chicken
1. Heat the Pan
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the vegetable oil and butter and allow the butter to melt completely.
2. Season the Chicken
Season the chicken fillets on both sides with paprika powder, black pepper, and salt.
3. Pan-Fry the Chicken
Add the chicken to the pan and fry for 6 minutes per side over medium heat until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. Sauté the Garlic
In the same pan, add the chopped garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add the Cream
Pour in the heavy cream and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring gently.
6. Add Cheese and Herbs
Stir in the parmesan cheese, dried parsley, and dried thyme until the sauce is smooth.
7. Thicken the Sauce
Continue cooking until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
8. Return the Chicken
Place the chicken back into the pan, spooning the sauce over each piece.
9. Garnish and Simmer
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and simmer for 3–5 minutes over low heat.
10. Serve
Serve warm with your favorite sides and enjoy a rich, creamy garlic parmesan chicken dinner.
What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Chicken:
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Pasta or fettuccine
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Rice or risotto
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Mashed or roasted potatoes
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Garlic bread or crusty bread
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Steamed or roasted vegetables
Pro Tips for the Best Results:
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Use freshly grated parmesan for the smoothest sauce
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Don’t overcook the chicken—medium heat keeps it juicy
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Stir the sauce continuously for a silky finish
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Let baked or meatloaf versions rest before serving
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes. Boneless or bone-in thighs work beautifully and stay especially tender. Many people prefer this cut for a richer, juicier texture.
Can this recipe be baked instead of pan-cooked?
Absolutely. After searing the chicken, transfer it to a baking dish, pour the sauce over it, and bake until bubbly and lightly golden for an easy oven-finished version.
Can I turn this recipe into a chicken meatloaf?
Yes. The garlic parmesan flavor combination works well with ground chicken. You can mix it with herbs, breadcrumbs, and cheese, then finish it with a creamy sauce for a comforting twist.
How do I add a herbed crust and creamy finish to a meatloaf version?
For a baked variation, top the meatloaf with parmesan, breadcrumbs, and dried herbs before baking. Once cooked, spoon over a warm garlic parmesan cream sauce for a smooth, rich finish.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to keep the sauce creamy.
Delicious Variations to Try
Juicy Baked Parmesan Chicken
Transfer the seared chicken to the oven, pour the sauce over it, top with extra parmesan, and bake until bubbly and golden.
Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs
Swap breasts for bone-in or boneless thighs for deeper flavor and even juicier results.
Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Turn this recipe into a comforting twist by mixing ground chicken with garlic, parmesan, herbs, and breadcrumbs.
Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with Herbed Crust and Creamy Finish
Top the meatloaf with a parmesan-herb crust, bake until golden, then finish with a creamy garlic parmesan drizzle for a truly elevated dish.
Final Thoughts
This Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is creamy, comforting, and easy enough for any night of the week. With simple ingredients and flexible cooking options, it’s a recipe you can return to again and again without it ever feeling repetitive.
If you tried it, share your experience or your own variation — and don’t forget to save this recipe for later 🧄