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Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This dish features tender, seared chicken thighs coated in a rich, glossy garlic Parmesan sauce. The sauce is built right in the pan, with fragrant garlic caramelized to sweetness and melted Parmesan creating a savory, cheesy coating. The final presentation is a juicy, flavorful chicken with an inviting, silky sauce that clings beautifully to every bite.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs preferably with some fat for flavor
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • 4 cloves garlic fresh, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese preferably aged
  • 1 tablespoon butter unsalted
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Measuring spoons
  • Kitchen thermometer

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil, letting it shimmer and just start to smoke.
  3. Carefully place the chicken in the pan, skin-side down if using skin-on, and sear without moving for about 6-8 minutes until the underside is deep golden and crispy.
  4. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes until it's cooked through and registers 75°C (165°F) internally.
  5. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same pan, sizzling for about 30 seconds until fragrant and slightly golden.
  6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook, stirring constantly, until it melts and the mixture becomes glossy and aromatic, about 2 minutes.
  7. Add the butter and a splash of lemon juice, swirling the pan until the sauce is smooth, shiny, and fragrant.
  8. Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce over the pieces, and cook for another minute to reheat and meld the flavors.
  9. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes. Plate the chicken, spooning extra sauce over the top for a glossy, cheesy finish.