Creamy Parmesan Chicken
A quick, cozy, feel-good dinner recipe that transforms simple ingredients like chicken, cream, and Parmesan into a velvety, soul-soothing dish. Perfect for weeknights, emotional support meals, or when you need a little food hug.
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Sharp knife & cutting board
- Tongs or spatula
- Cheese grater please, grate it fresh
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Spoon for tasting and licking
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts – slice them in half lengthwise to make cutlets (they cook faster this way, babe)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – just enough to get that golden sear going
- 3 garlic cloves minced – don’t be shy, garlic is the moment
- 1 cup heavy cream – this is what dreams are made of
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – not the powdery kind in the green can I beg you
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning – because she brings the flavor of five herbs in one
- Salt and pepper to taste – don’t skip this, your taste buds will notice
- Chopped parsley for serving – totally optional, but she’s cute and classy
Instructions
Sear Like a Star
- Pat your chicken cutlets dry (this is key for the sizzle) and season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat your olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and lay the chicken down like you mean it. Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside... and don’t snack on it yet (I see you).
Sizzle the Garlic (but don’t burn it)
- In the same pan, toss in your minced garlic. Let it get fragrant and just barely golden — about 30 seconds. Do not walk away, girl. Burnt garlic is not the vibe.
Pour, Stir, Melt
- Lower the heat and add in your heavy cream. Stir slowly and lovingly, then add the Parmesan and Italian seasoning. Let everything melt together into one glorious sauce. If it’s too thick, remember Maria’s broth trick. If it’s too thin, simmer it down a bit. We want silky, not soupy.
Bring the Chicken Back
- Add your chicken back to the pan and spoon that sauce over the top like you’re pampering it. Let it all simmer for 2–3 more minutes so they become best friends. Garnish with parsley if you’re feeling fancy.
Notes
- Cream hack: Thin it out with a splash of broth or pasta water if needed. Thicken by simmering a bit longer.
- Add-ons: Try sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or baby spinach for a veggie boost.
- Make ahead? Yes! Reheats like a dream with a little extra cream or broth.
- No Parmesan? Use Pecorino Romano or skip entirely and weep softly.
- Pairing tip: Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or crusty bread for max sauce enjoyment.