Introduction
Deliciously creamy and packed with bold flavors, this Creamy Chicken in Parmesan Sauce is the perfect low-carb comfort food. Featuring tender, pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a rich, cheesy garlic parmesan sauce, this dish feels indulgent yet is quick and easy to prepare. Ideal for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Creamy: A velvety parmesan sauce that’s irresistibly good.
  • Keto-Friendly: Low-carb and high-fat for a satisfying and nourishing meal.
  • Simple to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes with easy-to-find ingredients.
  • Versatile: Pairs perfectly with vegetables or keto-friendly pasta.

Ingredients (American & Metric)

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs / 900g)
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil or butter
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Parmesan Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (50g) freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) chicken broth (optional, for thinning the sauce)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 2 tbsp (10g) chopped parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare and season the chicken:
    • Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
    • Season both sides with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Sear the chicken:
    • Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
    • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the parmesan sauce:
    • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
    • Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
    • Stir in heavy cream, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and onion powder.
    • Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
  4. Combine and serve:
    • Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
    • Let simmer for 2 minutes to warm the chicken through.
    • Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips for Success

  • Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
  • For even cooking, pound chicken breasts to an even thickness.
  • If the sauce is too thick, adjust with chicken broth or more heavy cream.

Serving Suggestions
Serve over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a complete keto-friendly meal.

Storage Instructions
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Serves 4)

  • Calories: 420
  • Fat: 32g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Net Carbs: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
    Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and work perfectly in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
  2. Can I make this sauce dairy-free?
    Substitute coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option, though the flavor will differ slightly.
  3. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
    Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating.
  4. Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
    Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes are excellent additions to this dish.
  5. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
    Yes! This dish reheats well, making it a great option for meal prepping. Store the chicken and sauce separately if possible to retain the sauce’s texture.
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