Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a simple, tasty dish that’s all about the perfect combo of crispy chicken, rich Parmesan cheese, and plenty of garlicky flavor. The chicken comes out golden and juicy, with a cheesy crust that makes every bite satisfying and full of goodness. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but is easy to whip up any night of the week.
I love making this because it doesn’t require a lot of fancy ingredients, and it always turns out well. I usually toss some fresh parsley on top to add a little color and freshness, which balances the richness nicely. Plus, the garlic flavor is strong but not overpowering—I find it’s the perfect amount to keep everyone asking for seconds.
My favorite way to enjoy this dish is with a side of roasted veggies or a simple green salad to keep things light. Sometimes I even serve it over a bed of pasta or rice to soak up all the garlicky, cheesy goodness. It’s a recipe I keep coming back to because it brings comfort and flavor together in such a friendly, easy way.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: These are juicy and stay tender during cooking. If you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts work too but watch the cooking time so they don’t dry out.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a strong, aromatic kick. You can use garlic powder in a pinch but fresh gives the best flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan melts into the sauce for rich taste. If you can’t find Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a good salty substitute.
Cream & Butter: Heavy cream makes the sauce silky and smooth. For a lighter option, use half-and-half but the sauce will be less thick.
Italian Herbs: Dried or fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme add that classic Italian taste. If you don’t have Italian herbs, a mix of dried basil and oregano works well too.
How Do You Get the Chicken Juicy and Tender with a Crispy Crust?
The secret is in the sear and gentle simmer:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps it brown nicely.
- Use medium-high heat to sear chicken in olive oil until golden. Don’t crowd the pan—you want space for even browning.
- Remove chicken once browned but not fully cooked.
- Finish cooking the chicken gently in the creamy sauce by simmering. This keeps the inside juicy while the outside stays flavorful.
Patience during the sear and gentle heat during simmering are key. This method seals in moisture and lets the sauce coat the chicken beautifully.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I recommend a non-stick or cast-iron skillet; it helps get a crispy sear and easy cleanup.
- Tongs or spatula – for turning and removing the chicken without breaking it.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep the sauce ingredients consistent.
- Wooden spoon or whisk – for stirring the sauce and scraping up flavorful bits from the pan.
- Knife and cutting board – to mince garlic and chop herbs easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked bacon crumbles or pancetta for a smoky, savory boost.
- Mix in sautéed spinach or mushrooms to add earthy flavors and extra veggies.
- Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier taste.
- Finish with a splash of lemon juice or zest for a bright, fresh flavor that balances the richness.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts if you prefer)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped (basil, oregano, thyme)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe usually takes about 10 minutes to prepare and sear the chicken, plus around 10 minutes to simmer in the sauce. So, in total, expect about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick, delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Season the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Then sprinkle both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. This adds great flavor right from the start.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs in the pan and cook until they turn golden brown on both sides—about 4 to 5 minutes per side. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet. Once browned, take the chicken out and set it aside.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant (be careful not to burn it). Pour in the chicken broth, stirring and scraping up any yummy browned bits from the pan bottom. Next, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Simmer the Chicken in Sauce:
Put the chicken back into the skillet, nestling it right into the creamy sauce. Drop the butter on top for extra richness. Let everything simmer gently for about 10 minutes, turning the chicken a couple of times. This finishes cooking the chicken and lets the sauce get creamy and delicious.
5. Final Touches and Serving:
Taste the sauce and add more salt or pepper if needed. Take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and add a rosemary sprig if you like. Serve right away, with lemon wedges on the side if you want a fresh zing. This dish goes great with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes! Chicken breasts work well too. Just be careful not to overcook them since they can dry out faster. Sear until golden, then simmer gently in the sauce until cooked through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken a day ahead. Store everything in an airtight container in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat to keep the sauce creamy and avoid drying out the chicken.
What Can I Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the sauce.
