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Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Breast: Best One-Pan Recipe

easy garlic parmesan chicken breast - featured image

This easy garlic Parmesan chicken breast is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a rich, garlicky butter sauce with freshly grated Parmesan. It comes together in one pan in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressive enough for company.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large or 4 small boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 45 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the chicken: Place chicken breasts on a cutting board, cover with plastic wrap or parchment paper, and gently pound to an even thickness of about 1/2 to 3/4 inch. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Make the flour mixture: In a shallow dish, combine all-purpose flour, garlic powder, and paprika. Whisk together with a fork.
  3. Dredge the chicken: Working one piece at a time, coat each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Set coated chicken on a plate.
  4. Heat the pan: Place a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Heat until the oil shimmers.
  5. Sear the chicken: Carefully place chicken in the hot skillet without overcrowding. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until deep golden brown. Flip and cook another 4-5 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F. Transfer to a clean plate and tent with foil.
  6. Start the sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same pan, scraping up browned bits. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Build the sauce: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any remaining bits. Let reduce by half, about 2-3 minutes.
  8. Add the cream: Slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring. Let come to a gentle simmer until slightly thickened.
  9. Add the Parmesan: Reduce heat to low. Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  10. Return the chicken: Place chicken back in the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Simmer together for 2-3 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  11. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Bring chicken to room temperature before cooking for even searing. Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a good crust. Use fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan for best results. If sauce is too thin, simmer longer; if too thick, add a splash of broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic parmesan chicken, one-pan chicken, easy chicken breast, weeknight dinner, creamy chicken