Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet Simple and Savory Dish

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Looking for a quick, tasty meal that impresses? This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet is your answer. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a savory dish that bursts with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself, this skillet recipe shines. In this post, I’ll walk you through every step, share tips for perfecting it, and show you fun twists to try. Let’s get cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Flavorful Sauce: The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce is rich and satisfying, elevating the chicken to a whole new level.
  3. Healthy Greens: Adding baby spinach not only boosts the nutrition but also adds a lovely color to the dish.
  4. Versatile Dish: This recipe pairs well with a variety of sides, from pasta to rice or even a fresh salad.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 4 tablespoons olive oil

– 6 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup chicken broth

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 cup baby spinach

– ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

– Lemon wedges (for serving)

Notes on Ingredient Quality

Using high-quality ingredients makes a big difference. For chicken, choose fresh, organic options when possible. Fresh garlic packs more flavor than jarred. Look for a rich, full-bodied chicken broth. It enhances the dish. Use real Parmesan cheese, not the powdered stuff. Freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes great.

Substitutions and Alternatives

You can make swaps if needed. Instead of chicken, use turkey or tofu for a veggie option. Swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a lighter sauce. Try any broth you have on hand, like vegetable broth. If you want a kick, add red pepper flakes. Fresh spinach can be replaced with kale or any leafy green.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. You need chicken, garlic, olive oil, and more.

2. Measure out 4 tablespoons of olive oil. This oil will add flavor to your dish.

3. Mince the 6 cloves of garlic finely. Fresh garlic gives the best taste.

4. Chop the fresh parsley for garnish. It adds color and a fresh touch.

Cooking Steps

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Season the 4 chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This step is key to flavor.

3. Add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side.

4. Remove the chicken once it’s golden brown. Set it aside on a plate.

5. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same skillet.

6. Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute.

7. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Scrape any browned bits from the skillet.

8. Allow the broth to simmer for 2-3 minutes. This builds flavor in the sauce.

9. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.

10. Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the mix. Stir well and cook for 3-4 minutes.

11. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with 1 cup of baby spinach.

12. Simmer everything for another 2-3 minutes. The spinach should wilt nicely.

Final Steps for Serving

1. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

2. Plate the chicken and pour the creamy sauce over it.

3. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

4. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Chicken

To cook chicken that is juicy and tender, start with fresh breasts. Use a meat mallet to pound them evenly. This helps them cook at the same rate. Season each side well with salt and pepper. Heat your skillet until it’s hot before adding the chicken. This gives a nice golden crust. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side. Always check the internal temperature; it should be 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet once it’s done.

Sauce Consistency Tips

The sauce should be creamy and thick, not runny. Start by adding the chicken broth first. Scrape the skillet’s bottom to mix in the tasty bits. After adding heavy cream and Parmesan, stir well. Let it simmer for a few minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, let it cook longer. Always taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken hot on a plate with the sauce drizzled on top. Garnish with fresh parsley for color. Add lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick. This dish pairs well with rice or pasta to soak up the sauce. You can also serve it with a green salad for a lighter meal. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture!

Pro Tips

  1. Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
  2. Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a more vibrant flavor than pre-minced garlic, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
  3. Adjust the Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If too thin, let it simmer longer to reach your desired consistency.
  4. Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the fresh parsley and lemon wedges—they add brightness and freshness that balances the richness of the dish.

Variations

Adding Vegetables

You can boost the nutrition of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet by adding vegetables. Try mixing in bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli. These will add color and flavor. They cook well with the chicken and sauce. Just sauté them for a few minutes before adding the chicken back in. This helps them soften and soak up the tasty sauce.

Alternative Protein Options

If you want to switch things up, use different proteins. Shrimp or scallops work great in this dish. They cook quickly and absorb the flavors well. For a vegetarian option, try using firm tofu or chickpeas. Both of these can provide great texture and taste. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on your choice.

Flavor Enhancements

To take the flavor to the next level, add some extra spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes can make it spicy. You can also mix in fresh herbs like basil or thyme. These herbs add a fresh taste that pairs well with garlic and Parmesan. Another idea is to squeeze fresh lemon juice into the sauce. This will brighten the dish and enhance the flavors even more.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

Store your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh. It lasts for up to three days in the fridge. Before storing, let it cool down to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation and sogginess.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze your chicken dish for longer storage. Place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top, since liquids expand when frozen. This dish stays good for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, use the stovetop for the best flavor. Heat on medium-low and stir often. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if it looks dry. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating. Just cover the dish to keep moisture in. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot. Enjoy your meal just like it was fresh!

FAQs

How long does it take to cook Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

Cooking Garlic Parmesan Chicken takes about 30 minutes. You spend 10 minutes prepping. For cooking, allow 20 minutes. The chicken cooks for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Then, you simmer the sauce for a short time. This quick dish is perfect for busy nights.

Can I make it low-carb?

Yes, you can make this dish low-carb. Start by replacing the heavy cream with a low-carb alternative. You might try unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream. Also, skip the pasta or rice and serve the chicken with more veggies. Spinach, zucchini, or cauliflower rice work well here.

What side dishes pair well with Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

Many side dishes complement Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Here are some great options:

– Steamed broccoli

– Roasted asparagus

– Garlic bread

– Mashed potatoes

– Simple green salad

Each side brings a nice balance to the rich flavors of the chicken. Choose what you love!

This blog post offered a complete guide on making Garlic Parmesan Chicken. We covered key ingredients, including their quality and possible substitutes. I provided step-by-step instructions from prep to serving. You also got tips for perfecting the dish and adding variations. Finally, we discussed storage and answered common questions.

Remember, cooking is fun! Experiment with flavors and make this dish your own. Enjoy your mea

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 4 tablespoons olive oil - 6 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup baby spinach - ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Lemon wedges (for serving) Using high-quality ingredients makes a big difference. For chicken, choose fresh, organic options when possible. Fresh garlic packs more flavor than jarred. Look for a rich, full-bodied chicken broth. It enhances the dish. Use real Parmesan cheese, not the powdered stuff. Freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes great. You can make swaps if needed. Instead of chicken, use turkey or tofu for a veggie option. Swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a lighter sauce. Try any broth you have on hand, like vegetable broth. If you want a kick, add red pepper flakes. Fresh spinach can be replaced with kale or any leafy green. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. You need chicken, garlic, olive oil, and more. 2. Measure out 4 tablespoons of olive oil. This oil will add flavor to your dish. 3. Mince the 6 cloves of garlic finely. Fresh garlic gives the best taste. 4. Chop the fresh parsley for garnish. It adds color and a fresh touch. 1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. 2. Season the 4 chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This step is key to flavor. 3. Add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side. 4. Remove the chicken once it's golden brown. Set it aside on a plate. 5. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same skillet. 6. Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute. 7. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Scrape any browned bits from the skillet. 8. Allow the broth to simmer for 2-3 minutes. This builds flavor in the sauce. 9. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. 10. Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the mix. Stir well and cook for 3-4 minutes. 11. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with 1 cup of baby spinach. 12. Simmer everything for another 2-3 minutes. The spinach should wilt nicely. 1. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. 2. Plate the chicken and pour the creamy sauce over it. 3. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish. 4. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick. Enjoy your meal! To cook chicken that is juicy and tender, start with fresh breasts. Use a meat mallet to pound them evenly. This helps them cook at the same rate. Season each side well with salt and pepper. Heat your skillet until it's hot before adding the chicken. This gives a nice golden crust. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side. Always check the internal temperature; it should be 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet once it's done. The sauce should be creamy and thick, not runny. Start by adding the chicken broth first. Scrape the skillet's bottom to mix in the tasty bits. After adding heavy cream and Parmesan, stir well. Let it simmer for a few minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth. If it's too thin, let it cook longer. Always taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Serve the chicken hot on a plate with the sauce drizzled on top. Garnish with fresh parsley for color. Add lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick. This dish pairs well with rice or pasta to soak up the sauce. You can also serve it with a green salad for a lighter meal. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture! Pro Tips Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a more vibrant flavor than pre-minced garlic, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Adjust the Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If too thin, let it simmer longer to reach your desired consistency. Garnish for Flavor: Don't skip the fresh parsley and lemon wedges—they add brightness and freshness that balances the richness of the dish. {{image_2}} You can boost the nutrition of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet by adding vegetables. Try mixing in bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli. These will add color and flavor. They cook well with the chicken and sauce. Just sauté them for a few minutes before adding the chicken back in. This helps them soften and soak up the tasty sauce. If you want to switch things up, use different proteins. Shrimp or scallops work great in this dish. They cook quickly and absorb the flavors well. For a vegetarian option, try using firm tofu or chickpeas. Both of these can provide great texture and taste. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on your choice. To take the flavor to the next level, add some extra spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes can make it spicy. You can also mix in fresh herbs like basil or thyme. These herbs add a fresh taste that pairs well with garlic and Parmesan. Another idea is to squeeze fresh lemon juice into the sauce. This will brighten the dish and enhance the flavors even more. Store your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh. It lasts for up to three days in the fridge. Before storing, let it cool down to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation and sogginess. You can freeze your chicken dish for longer storage. Place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top, since liquids expand when frozen. This dish stays good for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, use the stovetop for the best flavor. Heat on medium-low and stir often. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if it looks dry. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating. Just cover the dish to keep moisture in. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot. Enjoy your meal just like it was fresh! Cooking Garlic Parmesan Chicken takes about 30 minutes. You spend 10 minutes prepping. For cooking, allow 20 minutes. The chicken cooks for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Then, you simmer the sauce for a short time. This quick dish is perfect for busy nights. Yes, you can make this dish low-carb. Start by replacing the heavy cream with a low-carb alternative. You might try unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream. Also, skip the pasta or rice and serve the chicken with more veggies. Spinach, zucchini, or cauliflower rice work well here. Many side dishes complement Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Here are some great options: - Steamed broccoli - Roasted asparagus - Garlic bread - Mashed potatoes - Simple green salad Each side brings a nice balance to the rich flavors of the chicken. Choose what you love! This blog post offered a complete guide on making Garlic Parmesan Chicken. We covered key ingredients, including their quality and possible substitutes. I provided step-by-step instructions from prep to serving. You also got tips for perfecting the dish and adding variations. Finally, we discussed storage and answered common questions. Remember, cooking is fun! Experiment with flavors and make this dish your own. Enjoy your meal!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet

A delicious skillet dish featuring chicken breasts cooked in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, served with spinach and garnished with parsley.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup baby spinach
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • as needed lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add another 2 tablespoons of olive oil and reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
  • Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix well and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  • Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, along with the baby spinach. Allow everything to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted and the chicken is heated through.
  • Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  • Serve the chicken hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side for a bright finish.

Notes

Serve with lemon wedges for added brightness.
Keyword chicken, easy, garlic, parmesan, skillet

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