This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet is packed with yummy flavors! Juicy chicken pieces are cooked in a tasty garlic and parmesan sauce, giving each bite a cheesy punch!
Cooking it all in one skillet means less mess—who doesn’t love that? I often serve it with rice or pasta, and trust me, the sauce is perfect for mopping up. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless skinless chicken breasts are great, but thighs can add more flavor and tenderness. If you’re vegetarian, use hearty veggie patties or tofu cubes as a substitute!
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a robust flavor to the dish. If you’re in a pinch, feel free to use garlic powder instead, but fresh is always best for depth.
Heavy Cream: This gives a rich and creamy texture. For a lighter option, you could use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce might not be as thick or rich. Coconut cream is a dairy-free alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is fantastic for a cheesy bite. If you’re looking for a substitute, Pecorino Romano can work well, and nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free option that adds a cheesy flavor.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a delicious smoky flavor that mimics the Blackstone cooking style. If you don’t have it, regular paprika mixed with a bit of cayenne for heat can work too!
How Do You Get That Chicken Perfectly Golden Brown?
To achieve crispy, golden-brown chicken, follow these simple tips:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps create a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each piece space so they can brown evenly.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture for a better sear.
- Cook on medium-high heat, and avoid flipping the chicken too much—let it sit so it can develop that crust.
With these tips, your chicken will come out beautifully browned and full of flavor!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet with Blackstone Flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for Blackstone-style smoky flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon butter for extra richness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 30 minutes from the kitchen to your table. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps it to get that nice golden-brown sear! Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil (and add butter if you want an even richer taste) over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, but be cautious not to let it burn, as it can turn bitter!
4. Deglaze the Skillet:
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom (this is called deglazing). Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to concentrate the flavors.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Next, stir in the heavy cream and allow it to come to a gentle simmer. This will create a luscious base for your sauce!
6. Add Parmesan Cheese:
Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce and thickens slightly, making it rich and creamy.
7. Return Chicken to the Skillet:
Carefully place the seared chicken back into the skillet, coating it in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors beautifully.
8. Finish It Off:
Give the dish a quick taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed, ensuring it’s just right for you!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the top for a lovely pop of color and flavor. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, pasta, or some delicious sautéed vegetables.
Enjoy your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet with that smoky, rich Blackstone flair! It’s sure to be a hit at dinnertime!
FAQ for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! However, make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce may not be as creamy. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream or a non-dairy milk thickened with a bit of cornstarch.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen up the sauce if it thickens too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers can be sautéed in the skillet after cooking the chicken and before adding the garlic. It adds great flavor and nutrition!
