When time is short but comfort is calling, this 15-Minute Creamy Chicken Dinner is the answer. Tender chicken cooked in a rich, velvety sauce comes together in one pan and in less time than it takes to order takeout. It’s the kind of recipe that saves busy weeknights while still delivering a satisfying, home-cooked meal the whole family will love.
Perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike, this dish relies on simple ingredients, quick cooking techniques, and bold flavor, no long simmering or complicated steps required.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy chicken dinner is designed for real life. It’s fast, easy, and deeply comforting. You’ll love how the chicken stays juicy while the sauce turns silky and flavorful in minutes.
It’s also incredibly versatile. Serve it with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even crusty bread. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or unexpected guests, this recipe delivers dependable results every time.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream (or cooking cream)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the Chicken
Season chicken cutlets on both sides with salt and black pepper. - Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside. - Build the Sauce
Lower heat to medium. Add garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. - Add Liquids
Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in the cream and Italian seasoning. - Thicken the Sauce
Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth and slightly thickened. - Finish the Dish
Return chicken to the pan and spoon sauce over it. Simmer for 1–2 minutes to heat through. - Serve Immediately
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
How to Serve
This creamy chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:
- Classic: Over pasta or rice
- Comforting: With mashed potatoes
- Low-Carb: With steamed broccoli or zucchini noodles
- Rustic: With crusty bread to soak up the sauce
Add a simple side salad to round out the meal.
Additional Tips for Success
- Slice chicken thinly so it cooks quickly
- Don’t overcook, chicken dries out fast
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting
- Keep heat moderate to prevent sauce separation
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving
Variations
- Mushroom Creamy Chicken: Add sliced mushrooms after garlic
- Spinach Version: Stir in fresh spinach at the end
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or cayenne
- Herb Upgrade: Finish with fresh thyme or basil
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Up to 3 days in an airtight container
- Freeze: Not recommended (cream sauce may split)
- Reheat: Gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream
Special Equipment
- Large skillet
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring cups
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs work well and stay extra juicy.
Is this really ready in 15 minutes?
Yes, as long as chicken is sliced thinly.
Can I make it ahead?
It’s best fresh, but leftovers reheat well.
What if my sauce is too thin?
Simmer one extra minute or add a bit more Parmesan.
Conclusion
This 15-Minute Creamy Chicken Dinner proves that fast food doesn’t have to mean boring food. With tender chicken, a luxurious creamy sauce, and minimal cleanup, it’s the perfect solution for busy nights when you still want a comforting, homemade meal. Once you try it, this recipe is sure to earn a permanent spot in your weeknight rotation.
