Looking for a quick and tasty dinner idea? Look no further! My Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet is packed with flavor and easy to make. This dish features juicy chicken, a creamy garlic sauce, and perfect seasoning. In this article, I will cover everything—ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for a perfect meal. Let’s dive in and bring this delicious recipe to your dinner table tonight!
Ingredients
Chicken
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Chicken breasts are the star of this dish. They cook quickly and stay juicy. I prefer boneless and skinless for ease and flavor.
Sauce Components
– 4 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
The sauce is rich and creamy. Olive oil adds a nice base. Minced garlic gives it a strong, tasty kick. Chicken broth keeps the sauce light. Heavy cream makes it smooth. Finally, Parmesan cheese adds a savory finish.
Seasoning and Garnish
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Seasoning is key. Italian seasoning brings herbs to the mix. Salt and pepper enhance the flavors. Fresh parsley adds a bright touch. It makes the dish look and taste better.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
First, gather your chicken breasts. You will need four boneless, skinless pieces. Season both sides with salt and pepper. This simple step adds great flavor. Next, heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken. Cook for six to seven minutes on each side. Look for a nice golden brown color. When the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet. Set it aside and keep it warm.
Making the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Now it’s time to make the sauce. In the same skillet, add the remaining two tablespoons of olive oil. Then, add six cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for one to two minutes. You want the garlic to smell great but not burn. Next, pour in one cup of chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the skillet. This adds extra flavor from the browned bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Now, stir in one cup of heavy cream and one teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Let it cook for two to three minutes. This lets the sauce thicken a bit.
Combining Ingredients and Final Touches
Now, it’s time to add the stars of the dish. Gradually whisk in one cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until it melts and becomes smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Make sure each piece gets coated in that creamy sauce. Let it simmer for another two to three minutes to heat through. Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Juicy Chicken Breasts
To keep chicken breasts juicy, choose the right cut. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well. Season them with salt and pepper before cooking. Cook them on medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes on each side. This creates a nice brown crust. A meat thermometer can help. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet after cooking. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep the juices locked in.
Perfecting the Garlic Flavor
Garlic adds a great taste to this dish. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Mince 6 cloves and sauté them in olive oil. Cook them for just 1-2 minutes until they smell good. Watch carefully! Burnt garlic can ruin your dish. If you like a stronger garlic taste, you can add more. Just remember to not overcook it.
Sauce Thickness and Consistency
The sauce should be creamy and smooth. Start by adding chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet. Let it simmer for a few minutes. This helps the sauce thicken. Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese slowly. This adds richness to the sauce. If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. Adjust the seasoning before serving to get it just right.
Variations
Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor
Adding vegetables makes this dish even better. You can toss in fresh spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers. These veggies add color and taste. Cook them in the skillet with the chicken. This way, they soak up the sauce and add nutrients. Try adding around 2 cups of your favorite veggies. This keeps the meal balanced and tasty.
Dairy-Free Alternatives
If you want a dairy-free dish, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. It gives a creamy texture without dairy. For cheese, try nutritional yeast. It adds a cheesy flavor without the milk. You can also use vegan Parmesan cheese. These swaps keep the dish yummy and friendly for all diets.
Spice it Up with Heat
For a kick, add red pepper flakes or jalapeños. Just a pinch of red pepper flakes gives a nice heat. If you love spice, chop some jalapeños and mix them in. Start with one pepper. You can always add more if you want extra heat. This twist makes the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet exciting!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
After enjoying your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet, let the leftovers cool. Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, check for any off smells or changes in color before heating.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the dish cool completely. Then, divide it into portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Label them with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you thaw it, remember to do so in the fridge for best results.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, you can use the stove or microwave. If using the stove, add a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce creamy. Heat over low until warm. If using the microwave, cover the dish loosely. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s hot. Enjoy your meal!
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs. They have more flavor and stay moist. Cook them the same way as breasts. Thighs may take a bit longer to cook. Ensure they reach 165°F for safety. Adjust cooking time based on the size of the thighs.
What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet?
Serve this dish with many sides. Here are some ideas:
– Rice: White or brown rice soaks up the sauce well.
– Pasta: Buttered noodles or fettuccine pair nicely.
– Vegetables: Steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients.
– Salad: A fresh, crisp salad brightens the meal.
These options balance the rich flavors of the chicken.
How to make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, try these methods:
– Simmer longer: Let the sauce cook more to reduce it.
– Add cornstarch: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with water. Stir into the sauce and cook until thick.
– Use less cream: Start with less cream to keep the sauce dense.
These tips can help you reach your desired sauce consistency quickly.
This post shared how to make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet. We explored the best chicken cuts, sauce components, and seasonings. I provided step-by-step instructions for cooking, ensuring juicy chicken and perfect garlic flavor. You can add veggies or make it dairy-free too. Don’t forget the storage tips for leftovers.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken is tasty and easy to make. I hope you enjoy this dish!
