Tender chicken fillets are pan-seared until golden and juicy, then simmered in a rich, creamy garlic parmesan sauce with just the right kick of chili heat. This spicy twist on a classic creamy chicken dish brings deep flavor and cozy satisfaction, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 chicken breasts, filleted into 4 thin cutlets
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tsp paprika
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions
I start by seasoning the chicken cutlets on both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, I heat olive oil and sear the chicken for about 3–4 minutes per side, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Then I set it aside.
In the same skillet, I reduce the heat to medium and sauté the minced garlic and chili flakes for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
I pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, making sure to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom.
I stir in the heavy cream, butter, and parmesan cheese, letting the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
If I want a thicker sauce, I mix cornstarch with water and stir it in.
I return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over it and letting it simmer for another 2 minutes to heat through.
Finally, I garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
Servings and timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 410 kcal
Variations
I sometimes switch things up depending on what I have in the kitchen:
Add mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra texture and nutrients.
Use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier bite.
Adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing the chili flakes—or skip them entirely for a mild version.
Swap the cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative (with a slight flavor twist).
Toss in cooked pasta before adding the chicken back to the pan for a one-skillet creamy pasta dinner.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, I just add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
FAQs
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
I check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer. The chicken should also be white and no longer pink in the center.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, I often make the sauce and chicken in advance, store them separately, and reheat them together just before serving.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
I sometimes use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream. For a lighter version, Greek yogurt can work, though it changes the texture slightly.
Can I freeze this recipe?
I don’t recommend freezing creamy sauces, as they can separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.
What should I serve with this?
I like to serve this with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables. The sauce is too good not to soak up with something!
Conclusion
This chicken fillet in spicy creamy garlic parmesan sauce is the kind of dish I turn to when I want full flavor without a lot of fuss. It’s quick, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners at home. If bold, creamy, and spicy is your thing, this one’s a keeper.
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Juicy Chicken Fillet in Spicy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
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- Author: Sophia
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Tender chicken fillets are pan-seared to perfection and simmered in a rich, creamy garlic parmesan sauce with a spicy chili kick. This comforting one-pan dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
2 chicken breasts, filleted into 4 thin cutlets
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tsp paprika
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken cutlets on both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and sauté minced garlic and chili flakes for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Add heavy cream, butter, and parmesan cheese to the pan. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- If a thicker sauce is desired, stir in the cornstarch and water mixture and cook until thickened.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the cutlets, and simmer for another 2 minutes to heat through.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Add mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra texture and nutrients.
Use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier bite.
Adjust the chili flakes for desired spice level, or omit for a milder version.
Swap cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Mix in cooked pasta for a one-skillet creamy pasta dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
