creamy garlic butter chicken (Printable)

Juicy chicken in a creamy garlic butter sauce with Parmesan and herbs. Simple, comforting, and restaurant-worthy.

# Components:

→ Poultry

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 150-180 grams each)
02 - 1 teaspoon salt
03 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
04 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika

→ Fats

05 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
06 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

→ Sauce Components

07 - 6 large garlic cloves, minced
08 - 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
09 - 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
10 - 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
11 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
12 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, plus extra for garnish

# Directions:

01 - Pat chicken breasts thoroughly dry. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
02 - In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until a deep golden-brown crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
03 - Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and softened, being careful not to burn it.
04 - Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the broth to a simmer and allow it to reduce slightly for 2 minutes.
05 - Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Continue to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce coats the back of a spoon and has thickened to a desirable consistency.
06 - Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon the luxurious sauce over the chicken. Allow to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated through.
07 - Remove from heat. Sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 35 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses simple ingredients most home cooks already have
  • Creates a restaurant quality meal with minimal effort
  • All cooked in one pan for easy cleanup
02 -
  • Perfect for meal prep as the flavors deepen overnight
  • Contains approximately 420 calories per serving
  • Can be made ahead and gently reheated without sauce breaking
  • Naturally gluten free when using certified gluten free broth
03 -
  • Allow chicken to come to room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking for more even results
  • Resist the urge to move the chicken while searing to develop a proper golden crust
  • If sauce becomes too thick, thin with additional chicken broth rather than cream
  • For maximum flavor, toast your Italian seasoning in the hot pan for 30 seconds before adding liquids