%20(1).jpg "Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet (Easy One-Pan Dinner Recipe)")
Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet (Easy One-Pan Dinner)
Juicy pan-seared chicken simmered in a rich garlic parmesan cream sauce—fast, comforting, and perfect for busy nights.
Recipe Card
Save this for later—this is one of those “repeat every week” dinners.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time10 min
- Cook Time25 min
- Total35 min
- Servings4
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the creamy garlic sauce
- 1 tbsp butter
- 5–6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Why This Recipe Works
- Pan-searing creates deep flavor and keeps chicken juicy.
- Garlic cooked gently stays sweet and aromatic, not bitter.
- Parmesan thickens the sauce naturally without flour.
- One-pan method keeps everything flavorful and fast.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Season the chicken
Pat chicken dry. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Pro tip: Dry chicken browns better—don’t skip this.
Sear until golden
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear 5–6 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
Build the garlic base
Reduce heat to medium. Add butter, then garlic. Cook about 30 seconds until fragrant (do not brown).
Make the sauce
Add broth and scrape the pan. Stir in cream, parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Simmer gently until slightly thickened.
Finish
Return chicken to the skillet. Spoon sauce over the top and simmer 5–7 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Serving: Best with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Easy Variations
| Variation | What to add | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Mushroom | 1–2 cups sliced mushrooms (sauté after searing) | Deeper, earthy flavor |
| Spinach | 2 cups baby spinach (stir in at the end) | Fresh + balanced |
| Spicy | Chili flakes or cayenne (pinch) | Warm heat in every bite |
Nutrition Facts (Estimated)
Values vary based on ingredients used.
| Nutrient | Per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~520 |
| Protein | ~42g |
| Carbs | ~8g |
| Fat | ~35g |
Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth/cream to loosen the sauce.
Freezer: Not recommended (cream sauces can split after freezing).
FAQ
Can I make this without heavy cream?
Yes. Use half-and-half or evaporated milk. The sauce will be thinner, so simmer a bit longer and add a little extra parmesan.
How do I know the chicken is done?
Chicken should be fully opaque with clear juices. If you use a thermometer, aim for 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
What goes best with creamy garlic chicken?
Pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. A simple salad also helps balance the richness.
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