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Cozy Garlic Parmesan Chicken in 15 Minutes: Easy Weeknight Dinner

Cozy Garlic Parmesan Chicken in 15 Minutes - featured image

A quick and easy weeknight dinner featuring tender chicken breasts in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy nights when you need a comforting meal fast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and rub it in so each piece is lightly coated. Shake off any excess.
  2. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Let it get hot until it shimmers.
  3. Place the chicken in the hot skillet. Cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet. Once it melts and starts to foam, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about a minute until it reduces slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until the chicken is heated through and cooked to 165°F.
  8. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Let the chicken rest for a minute or two before serving.

Notes

Don’t skip the flour step—it creates a golden crust and helps thicken the sauce. Use room temperature chicken if possible for even cooking. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes before flipping to ensure a good sear. For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic parmesan chicken, 15 minute dinner, easy weeknight meal, quick chicken recipe, one skillet chicken