Sometimes, all you want after a hectic day is a dinner that feels like a warm hug. This creamy chicken skillet fits that craving perfectly—rich, comforting, and surprisingly quick to make. It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with inviting aromas and leaves everyone at the table smiling.
One evening, I remember the moment vividly: the soft sizzle of chicken meeting the hot skillet, the fragrant garlic releasing its magic as it cooked, and the smooth, velvety sauce thickening gently, speckled with herbs and Parmesan. I could hear the quiet chatter around the table, the clink of forks, and the satisfied sighs that followed each bite. It wasn’t just dinner; it was a pause in the chaos, a chance to savor something simple and honest. Cooking this skillet meal felt like sharing a little comfort, a little care, plated up and ready to enjoy.
- Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Combines tender chicken with a creamy, herb-infused sauce that’s both rich and flavorful.
- Uses simple pantry staples, so you can whip it up anytime without a special trip to the store.
- The sauce has a subtle kick with crushed red pepper flakes, adding just the right touch of warmth.
- Fresh parsley brightens the dish, balancing the creaminess with a pop of color and freshness.
If you’re a little nervous about creamy sauces, don’t be. This recipe strikes the perfect balance—luxuriously creamy but never heavy or overwhelming. Plus, it’s easy to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
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Creamy Chicken Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A quick and delicious creamy chicken skillet made with tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich and flavorful creamy sauce with garlic and herbs. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 6 ounces each
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits.
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add the butter to the sauce and stir until melted and incorporated.
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some sauce over them, and cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the skillet before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely. Bone-in or boneless thighs work well and add extra juiciness, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this dairy-free? You can substitute the heavy cream and butter with coconut milk and dairy-free butter alternatives, but the flavor profile will change a bit.
How should I store leftovers? Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to keep the sauce creamy.
Can I add vegetables? Sure! Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes would be great additions to the skillet.
When you’re ready to turn your dinner into something a little more special, this creamy chicken skillet is waiting. It’s uncomplicated, satisfying, and just the kind of home-cooked meal that makes any night feel a little warmer. Save it, try it, and enjoy the cozy dinner moments it brings.