Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, coating both sides evenly.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Cover with foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Bring the broth to a simmer and let it reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Add red pepper flakes, if using.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt and pepper.
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce.
- Spoon the sauce over the chicken, making sure they are well coated.
- Simmer for a minute or two to allow the chicken to warm through in the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve immediately over your favorite sides like pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
For extra moist chicken, brine the chicken breasts for 30 minutes before cooking. If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water). If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave, skillet, or oven until heated through.
