One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken with Parmesan | Easy Cozy Skillet Dinner

Quick dinners that deliver bold flavor and minimal mess are worth keeping on repeat. This One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken with Parmesan is a perfect example. Juicy chicken is seared until golden, then simmered in a silky garlic-Parmesan sauce that clings to every bite.

Whether you’re short on time or just craving something rich and satisfying, this recipe hits the mark without requiring a ton of ingredients or cleanup.

Everything cooks in a single skillet, which means fewer dishes and more flavor-packed bites. You’ll get all the comfort of creamy garlic chicken with the convenience of a 30-minute meal that everyone at the table will love.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken with Parmesan

Creamy chicken recipes often require multiple pans or prep steps, but this version is designed for simplicity. You only need one pan, a few pantry staples, and about half an hour to pull this off.

Easy to Make and Quick to Clean

This one-skillet chicken recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Cleanup is fast and easy since everything cooks in one pan.

Family-Friendly and Versatile

Creamy garlic chicken appeals to kids and adults alike. It’s also easy to modify for dietary preferences and pantry availability.

Bold Flavor with Simple Ingredients

Fresh garlic, Parmesan cheese, and cream create a rich, savory sauce without being too heavy.

Great for Busy Weeknights

Whether you’re coming home from work or running errands, this is a quick dinner recipe you can rely on.

Excellent for Meal Prep

It stores and reheats well, making it a smart choice for leftovers or next-day lunches.

One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Ingredients

These ingredients are fresh, colorful, and pantry-friendly, ensuring a Pinterest-worthy dinner with no extra grocery trips.

Ingredients List (Serves 4)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Ingredient Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melt and taste. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it may prevent a smooth sauce. Fresh garlic makes a big impact here, so don’t substitute with garlic powder.

Heavy cream ensures richness; avoid using milk, which can cause the sauce to split. Olive oil provides a neutral base for searing the chicken and sautéing the garlic without overpowering the flavor.

How to Make One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken with Parmesan

This simple chicken recipe comes together in under 30 minutes with just a few steps. A single skillet does all the work.

Sear the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Place the chicken thighs in the skillet. Sear for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

4. Lower the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up the brown bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Add red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
7. Return the chicken to the pan. Spoon the sauce over each piece and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes to blend flavors.

Looking for more garlic and Parmesan flavor? You might enjoy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice.

How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken with Parmesan

This creamy chicken recipe is flexible and pairs beautifully with a range of side dishes. It works equally well for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.

Best Classic Sides

Serve this chicken over mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or buttered egg noodles to soak up the sauce. Roasted green beans or a fresh Caesar salad round out the plate without overpowering the main dish.

Low-Carb Pairings

If you’re aiming for a lower-carb dinner, pair this dish with cauliflower mash, sautéed spinach, or zucchini noodles. These options help balance the richness of the sauce while keeping carbs in check.

If one-pan dinners are your go-to, try the cozy One-Pan Chicken and Rice Bake for another comforting option.

Customizing This Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

This chicken recipe is delicious as written, but it’s easy to personalize based on your preferences or what’s in your kitchen.

Ingredient Swaps and Add-Ins

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs
• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies
• Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella before serving
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version
• Include a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavor

Diet-Friendly Variations

For a low-carb version, serve over cauliflower rice. To make this dairy-free, swap cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese substitute. Always check labels to keep it gluten-free, especially for broth and cheese.

Cooking with chicken thighs often results in extra-juicy meals. See why in this Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs recipe.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Make the most of leftovers by storing and reheating this chicken properly. The creamy sauce holds up well if handled correctly.

How to Store It

Transfer cooled chicken and sauce to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as the cream sauce may separate after thawing.

Best Reheating Methods

Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between rounds to keep the sauce smooth.

Need more make-ahead meal inspiration? Marry Me Chicken (Crock Pot) is another great option for busy nights.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Garlic Chicken with Parmesan

Nail this creamy chicken recipe every time with a few simple techniques that guarantee delicious results.

Don’t Skip the Sear

Searing the chicken gives it golden color and adds flavor to the pan, which enhances the sauce. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before returning it to the sauce to keep juices inside.

Let the Sauce Simmer Gently

After adding the cream and cheese, keep the heat low. High heat may cause the sauce to separate or curdle. Stir constantly while the cheese melts for a velvety finish.

Fresh parsley adds color and brightness at the end, balancing the richness of the dish without overpowering the garlic.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Creamy Garlic Chicken

Small errors can impact the flavor or texture of this simple chicken recipe. Avoid these common missteps to ensure the dish turns out perfect.

Using Low-Quality Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting properly. Always grate Parmesan fresh for best results.

Overcooking the Chicken

Use an instant-read thermometer and pull the chicken at 165°F. Overcooked chicken can become dry and chewy, especially when simmered too long in sauce.

Crowding the pan also leads to uneven searing. Cook in batches if your skillet is small.

Conclusion: Share This One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken with Parmesan

One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken with Parmesan delivers rich flavor, comfort, and convenience in one simple dinner.

With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a single skillet, you’ll have a creamy, garlic-infused chicken dish that fits weeknights and weekends alike. Whether you serve it with pasta, veggies, or grains, it’s sure to earn a spot on your go-to list.

If this dish made your dinner easier and tastier, don’t forget to pin it and share it with someone who loves quick, satisfying meals.

FAQs About One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken with Parmesan

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in creamy garlic chicken?

Yes. Chicken breasts work well in this recipe. Slice them in half horizontally to cook evenly. Watch the internal temperature to avoid drying them out.

What sides go well with creamy garlic chicken for dinner?

Great options include mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread. For low-carb sides, consider zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

How do I thicken the garlic Parmesan sauce?

Simmer the sauce longer to reduce and thicken naturally. If needed, add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water and stir into the sauce.

Is creamy garlic chicken with Parmesan low-carb?

Yes, this recipe can be low-carb if served with non-starchy vegetables or cauliflower mash. Use heavy cream and check labels on broth and cheese to avoid added carbs.

Can I make this creamy chicken dinner ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to keep the sauce smooth. It’s great for meal prep or packed lunches.

One-Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken with Parmesan | Easy Cozy Skillet Dinner

Author: Ellie Courses: Dinner