Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even 1/2-inch thickness between two sheets of plastic wrap.
- In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 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 sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and nestle them into the creamy garlic sauce.
- Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a minute or two, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Don't overcook the chicken. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Keep the heat at medium-low when simmering the sauce to prevent curdling. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better. If the sauce isn't thick enough, whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) and simmer until thickened. For an extra layer of flavor, deglaze the pan with dry white wine after sautéing the garlic. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if needed to thin the sauce. Variations: Add mushrooms, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or red pepper flakes.
