Garlic Parmesan Chicken

When the days feel long and the kitchen calls your name, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken is like comfort on a plate. I remember making it one rainy Tuesday evening. The kids were grumpy, the house was loud, and dinner felt impossible. But then, the smell of garlic and butter started to fill the air. Everything softened. We sat down, scooped sauce over fluffy mashed potatoes, and suddenly, it felt like home again.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This recipe comes together quickly, which makes it perfect for a weeknight dinner. The sauce is rich and creamy with just the right hit of garlic and tang from lemon juice. It clings to the golden seared chicken in all the right ways. You can serve it with roasted veggies, over pasta, or next to a pile of mashed potatoes. Best of all, it uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

• ¾ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1¾ cups chicken broth
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon honey
• ½ chicken bouillon cube
• ½ teaspoon each: onion powder, oregano, basil, and parsley

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1 – Prep and Season the Chicken

Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise. You should get two or three thinner pieces. Pound them to about ½ inch thick so they cook evenly. Then, season both sides with salt, pepper, and parsley.

Step 2 – Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in batches. Sear each side for 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Set the chicken aside and keep warm.

Step 3 – Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Turn off the heat for a moment, then pour in the wine or broth. Turn the heat back to medium. Scrape up any browned bits and let the liquid bubble gently. After two minutes, stir in the garlic and cook until the liquid reduces by half.

Next, add the butter and flour. Stir it into a paste and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the sauce mixture (broth, cream, Worcestershire, and seasonings) a little at a time, stirring constantly. Let it come to a boil, then lower to a simmer for 8 minutes.

Step 4 – Combine, Simmer, and Serve

Once the sauce thickens, reduce heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese a little at a time until melted. Add the lemon juice. Finally, return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the top and let it simmer together for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle with more parsley before serving.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use freshly grated Parmesan. It melts better and gives a richer flavor than pre-shredded versions.
• Dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay adds a depth of flavor. If you’re avoiding wine, chicken broth works beautifully.
• A wide 12-inch skillet helps the sauce reduce evenly.
• Want a deeper color? Add a drop or two of Gravy Master.
• For a twist, try Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops or make it into a cozy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.

What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This dish pairs well with so many sides. Try mashed potatoes for a classic comfort plate or roasted baby potatoes for a crispy edge. Roasted green beans, asparagus, or broccoli are great veggie options. Buttered noodles or Garlic Parmesan Pasta work if you’re craving something more filling. Don’t forget a slice of cheesy garlic bread for dipping in the sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze for up to three months. To reheat, warm slowly on the stove or in the oven at 300°F until hot. Add a splash of broth if the sauce gets too thick.

Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy equipment here. A large 12-inch skillet works best for even searing and sauce simmering. Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken evenly. A silicone whisk helps blend the sauce without scratching your pan. And don’t forget a garlic press to make mincing easy.

Related Recipes to Try

If you love this cozy garlic and Parmesan combo, try these next:

• For an easy handheld meal, make Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps
• For sweet-savory comfort, go with Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
• Craving a saucy dinner? You’ll love Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe Card

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