Creamy Chicken in Parmesan Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is all about creamy goodness! The chicken is perfectly seasoned, pan-seared, and then coated in a velvety sauce that is both rich and refreshing. The sun-dried tomatoes bring a tangy sweetness, while the spinach adds a touch of freshness and color. The Parmesan elevates the sauce with its salty, nutty flavor, making it absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re making it for yourself or serving it to guests, this dish will impress every time!

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tsp oregano (divided)
• 3 tbsp butter (divided)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup Parmesan, grated
• 1 cup spinach

For Garnish:

• Parsley, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of oregano.
2. Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once melted and hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the onions and garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
4. Add sun-dried tomatoes and broth: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, followed by the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.
5. Make the creamy sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Add the grated Parmesan and the remaining teaspoon of oregano. Stir until the sauce thickens and the cheese is fully melted, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add spinach and chicken: Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes to reheat and absorb the flavors.
7. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately, perhaps over rice or pasta, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce for more texture and flavor.
• Dairy-Free Version: To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a little heat in the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

It’s best to use thawed, fresh chicken for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

2. Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce together in a skillet.

3. Can I substitute the sun-dried tomatoes with something else?

If you’re not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, you can use roasted red peppers or omit them altogether for a simpler sauce.

4. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the juices run clear. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.

5. Can I use other greens instead of spinach?

Yes, kale, arugula, or Swiss chard would also work well in this recipe. Just make sure to cook the greens until wilted before adding the chicken back into the pan.

6. Can I use a different cheese for the sauce?

Yes, you can substitute the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for a slightly different flavor.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any wheat-based products.

8. Can I make this dish lighter?

To lighten up the dish, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of butter used for cooking.

9. Can I freeze this dish?

While you can freeze the chicken and sauce, the texture of the cream may change once reheated. If you plan to freeze, be sure to let the dish cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.

10. What should I serve with this dish?

This creamy chicken pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a simple side salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken in Parmesan Sauce is a decadent and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, creamy sauce, savory chicken, and delightful sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make. Whether served over pasta, rice, or with a side of vegetables, this dish is sure to become a go-to comfort food in your recipe collection. Enjoy the creamy goodness in every bite!

Print