This Garlic Parmesan Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this dish combines juicy chicken with a creamy garlic sauce that’s bursting with flavor. The rich taste of Parmesan cheese and the aroma of garlic elevate it to a whole new level, making it a family favorite. Easy to prepare, this recipe is sure to impress your guests while keeping you relaxed in the kitchen.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
- Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Step 3: Sear the Chicken
- Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Step 5: Finish Cooking
- How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- With Mashed Potatoes
- Over Pasta
- Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables
- With a Side Salad
- On a Bed of Rice
- With Crusty Bread
- How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken gluten-free?
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- What side dishes go well with Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Is Garlic Parmesan Chicken suitable for meal prep?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Garlic Parmesan Chicken can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, white wine, and Parmesan creates an irresistible creamy sauce that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal that suits any occasion.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends at dinner parties or casual get-togethers.
- Healthy Option: Using lean chicken breasts keeps this dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting your cooking adventure, gather the essential tools you’ll need for this Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe. Having everything on hand will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet (12-inch)
- Meat mallet
- Measuring cups
- Silicone spatula
- Large measuring cup
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Allows for even cooking and provides enough space for searing the chicken properly.
- Meat mallet: Helps tenderize the chicken, ensuring it cooks evenly and remains juicy.
- Silicone spatula: Perfect for scraping up browned bits from the skillet, adding depth to your sauce.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
* 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 onion powder
* ½ teaspoon oregano
* ½ teaspoon basil
* ½ teaspoon parsley
For the Chicken & Other:
* 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 2 teaspoons parsley
* 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
* ¾ cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, or Sauvignon Blanc; or use chicken broth as a substitute)
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 3 tablespoons butter
* 3 tablespoons flour
* ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a large measuring cup, combine all sauce ingredients and set aside. Measure out the remaining ingredients to keep everything organized.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create 2–3 thinner cutlets.
- Cover with plastic wrap and pound to ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet.
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and parsley.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken in batches for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Turn off heat temporarily. Pour in white wine and return heat to medium.
- Scrape bottom of skillet with silicone spatula to release browned bits (fond).
- Let wine simmer and reduce by half for about 2 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 2–3 more minutes.
- Stir in butter and flour; cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in sauce mixture while stirring constantly; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 8 minutes until thickened.
Step 5: Finish Cooking
- Lower heat; gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add lemon juice and stir well.
- Return seared chicken to skillet; spoon sauce over top.
- Heat for 5 more minutes or until warmed through.
Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley alongside mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a delightful meal!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
With Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes complement the rich sauce perfectly, soaking up every bit of flavor for a satisfying bite.
Over Pasta
- Serve the chicken atop a bed of spaghetti or fettuccine, allowing the garlic Parmesan sauce to coat the pasta for a deliciously hearty meal.
Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables
- A medley of roasted vegetables adds color and nutrients to your plate, balancing the richness of the chicken.
With a Side Salad
- A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the chicken.
On a Bed of Rice
- Fluffy rice acts as a perfect base, soaking up the creamy garlic sauce while providing an additional texture to each bite.
With Crusty Bread
- Serve with warm, crusty bread on the side to mop up any remaining sauce, making every bite count.

How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Creating the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out exceptional every time.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan cheese make all the difference in flavor and texture.
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Pound Chicken Evenly: Ensure that all chicken cutlets are of uniform thickness for even cooking and juiciness.
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Don’t Rush Searing: Allow enough time for the chicken to sear properly; this builds flavor through caramelization.
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Deglaze Properly: Scrape up browned bits from the skillet after adding wine; they contribute depth to your sauce.
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Adjust Sauce Thickness: If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
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Garnish Thoughtfully: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances flavor; sprinkle generously before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Pairing side dishes with Garlic Parmesan Chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that will please everyone at your table.
- Garlic Bread: This buttery delight is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
- Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus provides a lovely crunch and fresh flavor that complements the creamy chicken.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies adds nutrition and texture without overpowering the main dish.
- Creamed Spinach: Rich creamed spinach adds an indulgent touch that matches well with the garlic flavors in the chicken.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast, balancing out the creamy richness of Garlic Parmesan Chicken.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness, providing an interesting flavor balance while being nutritious.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with garlic.
- Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous makes an excellent base for soaking up sauces and complements various flavors well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Garlic Parmesan Chicken, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious dish every time.
- Skipping the pounding: Not pounding the chicken can result in uneven cooking. Always flatten your chicken breasts to ½-inch thickness for consistent results.
- Using pre-grated cheese: Pre-grated Parmesan lacks flavor and doesn’t melt well. Opt for freshly grated cheese for the best taste and texture.
- Ignoring the fond: Discarding the browned bits after searing the chicken means losing essential flavor. Always deglaze your skillet to incorporate those tasty morsels into your sauce.
- Overcooking the sauce: Cooking the sauce too long can lead to a thick, sticky mess. Keep an eye on it and stir frequently to achieve a creamy consistency without burning.
- Adding too much salt: Since chicken broth and Parmesan contain salt, be cautious when seasoning your chicken. Start light and adjust as needed during cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Garlic Parmesan Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
- Use within 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes covered with foil.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat over low-medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Garlic Parmesan Chicken.
How do I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken gluten-free?
You can substitute flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend in the recipe. This will help thicken your sauce without adding gluten.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will add extra moisture and flavor. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.
What side dishes go well with Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted vegetables. Feel free to mix and match according to your preferences!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to reheat.
Is Garlic Parmesan Chicken suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely while maintaining its flavor.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Parmesan Chicken is not only rich in flavor but also versatile enough for any occasion—from family dinners to special gatherings. Customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables. Don’t hesitate; give this comforting dish a try today!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a delightful dish that will elevate your weeknight dinners or impress guests at special gatherings. This recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in a rich and creamy garlic sauce infused with the savory goodness of Parmesan cheese. With its irresistible flavor and easy preparation, this meal is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables for a well-rounded dinner that satisfies every palate.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ¾ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1¾ cups chicken broth
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons butter
- Olive oil, salt, pepper, and various herbs (parsley, oregano, basil)
Instructions
- Slice and pound the chicken to uniform thickness. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
- Sear the chicken in olive oil in a large skillet until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, deglaze with white wine and scrape up browned bits. Add minced garlic and simmer.
- Stir in butter and flour; then gradually mix in the sauce ingredients until thickened.
- Return the chicken to the skillet; coat with sauce and heat thoroughly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 120mg