Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan

🧄 Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan

🐔 Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tsp paprika (optional, for color)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 tbsp butter

• 5–6 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, thyme, basil)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)

• 1/4 cup chicken broth or dry white wine (optional, for deglazing)

• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy version)

• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

🔪 Instructions:

1. Prep the chicken:

   • Pat chicken dry. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.

2. Sear the chicken:

   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

   • Add chicken and sear 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F / 74°C).

   • Remove and set aside.

3. Make the garlic butter sauce:

   • Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet.

   • Once melted, stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

   • Optional: Deglaze with chicken broth or wine, scraping up brown bits.

4. Add cheese:

   • Stir in Parmesan and optional cream if using. Simmer for a minute or two until slightly thickened.

5. Return chicken to skillet:

   • Spoon sauce over the chicken and simmer together for another 2–3 minutes.

6. Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed veggies.