Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1.75 cups chicken broth; 0.25 cups heavy cream; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon mustard powder; 1 teaspoon honey; 0.5 cube chicken bouillon; 0.5 teaspoon onion powder; 0.5 teaspoon oregano; 0.5 teaspoon basil; 0.5 teaspoon parsley; 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts; Salt; Pepper; 2 teaspoons parsley; 1-2 tablespoons olive oil; 0.75 cups dry white wine (see notes); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 3 tablespoons butter; 3 tablespoons flour; 0.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Chicken

When it comes to cooking at home, finding a go-to recipe that’s both simple and delicious can be a game-changer. Enter Garlic Parmesan Chicken. This sensational dish features a creamy, garlicky sauce that pairs perfectly with tender chicken breasts, making it a standout option for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings.

Why Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a Game-Changer for Homemade Meals

There are a few reasons why this dish deserves a spot in your culinary repertoire:

Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and 35 minutes of cook time, you can whip up a delightful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Rich, Flavorful Sauce: The combination of fresh minced garlic and Parmesan cheese creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the dish to gourmet status.
Healthy and Satisfying: At about 351 calories per serving, this meal is both nutritious and fulfilling, giving you all the comfort without the guilt.

Imagine impressing your friends with a homemade meal that feels indulgent yet is so straightforward to prepare. Plus, if you're looking for alternative protein options, check out our suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops or even a pasta variation!

Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Cooking Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a delightful experience, where each ingredient plays a pivotal role in creating that rich, savory flavor. Let’s break down the must-have components for this fantastic dish!

Essential ingredients for the sauce

To whip up the incredible sauce, you'll need:

1 ¾ cups chicken broth: A flavorful base that’s crucial for depth.
¼ cup heavy cream: This adds richness and a creamy texture.
3 tablespoons butter: For a savory finish.
4 cloves garlic, minced: The star of the show, providing that aromatic kick!
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Essential for that tangy, salty flavor.

These ingredients come together to create a sauce that’s both savory and indulgent.

Key ingredients for the chicken

For the best chicken experience, gather the following:

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts: The protein powerhouse of the dish.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that make a big difference.
1-2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for sautéing and enhancing flavor.
3 tablespoons flour: Helps to thicken your sauce.

When combined, these elements will create a perfectly moist and flavorful chicken to complement that delicious garlic sauce. Enjoy every bite!

For more tips on selecting quality ingredients, check out The Spruce Eats on sourcing chicken and Serious Eats for sauce basics.

Preparing Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken is not only a delightful journey in the kitchen but also a surefire way to impress family and friends with minimal effort. Let's break down the process step by step so you can whip it up with ease!

Gather Your Ingredients

First things first, you need to gather your ingredients. This helps streamline the cooking process:

For the sauce: Chicken broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, honey, a chicken bouillon cube, and a mix of onion powder, oregano, basil, and parsley.
For the chicken and cooking: Two large boneless skinless chicken breasts, salt, pepper, parsley, olive oil, dry white wine (or substitute chicken broth), minced garlic, butter, flour, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice.

Having everything prepped and ready makes cooking a breeze!

Prepare the Chicken and Sauce

The next step is to prepare your chicken. Start by slicing each breast in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. This not only helps with even cooking but also allows for a lovely sear. After slicing, cover with plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet until they're about half an inch thick. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and parsley.

While you let the chicken sit, combine your sauce ingredients in a large measuring cup or bowl. Preparation is key to a seamless cooking experience!

Cooking the Chicken to Perfection

Now, it's time to cook the chicken! Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken cutlets in batches for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a gorgeous golden crust. Once done, set them aside to rest and keep that delicious flavor locked in.

Making the Incredible Garlic Parmesan Sauce

With the chicken cooked, it’s time for the star of the dish: the garlic Parmesan sauce. Turn off the heat and add your prepared dry white wine, or chicken broth, to deglaze the pan. Make sure to scrape any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom! Add minced garlic and let that sauté for a couple of minutes.

Next, mix in butter and flour to create a roux, cooking for just a minute to eliminate that raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth mixture you made earlier, allowing it to thicken and bubble away. This is where the magic happens! Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh lemon juice for that extra zing.

Combining Chicken and Sauce for a Delicious Finish

Finally, return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the luscious sauce all over the top. Let everything heat through for about 5 minutes or until the sauce reaches your desired thickness. Garnish with additional parsley for that pop of color and taste!

Whether you serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken over pasta, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables, this dish promises to be a hit. Enjoy your culinary creation!

Variations on Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Veggies

Transform your Garlic Parmesan Chicken into a colorful meal by adding an array of fresh vegetables. Simply toss in asparagus, bell peppers, or even zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds vibrancy and flavor to your dish. Pairing it with hearty veggies makes for a light yet satisfying dinner option.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

For a comforting twist, try making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. After preparing your chicken, set it aside, and use the same skillet to sauté cooked pasta and a sprinkle of your choice of vegetables in the garlic sauce. Stir the chicken back in, and you’ve got a delightful one-pan meal full of flavor. For more pasta recipes, check out this helpful guide if you want to explore other delicious options.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Secret Ingredient Tips

To elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken, consider adding a splash of lemon juice right before you serve it. This will brighten the dish and enhance the flavors significantly. If you want an extra layer of depth, you can also sprinkle in a touch of smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness that complements the garlic and parmesan beautifully.

Suggestions for Ideal Cooking Equipment

For perfect results, use a wide, 12-inch skillet. This allows for better heat distribution and gives ample space for the sauce to simmer and thicken properly. You might also want to keep a silicone spatula handy. It’s perfect for capturing all those flavorful bits stuck to the pan (the fond) when making the sauce. Investing in these tools can make a noticeable difference in your cooking experience!

For more tips on essential kitchen tools, check out this comprehensive guide.

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Pairing with Sides

When serving Garlic Parmesan Chicken, the right sides can elevate your dish. Try pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted seasonal vegetables, like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, for a delightful contrast. A fresh garden salad dressed with zesty lemon vinaigrette can also complement the rich flavors of the chicken, balancing the meal beautifully.

Serving as a Meal Prep Option

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a fantastic meal prep option! The flavors deepen as it sits, making it perfect for storing in the fridge for up to four days. Portion it out with your favorite grains, like quinoa or rice, and steamed veggies for a quick, delicious lunch or dinner throughout the week. Plus, store the sauce separately to maintain that creamy texture!

For more side ideas, check out these healthy options or explore meal prep tips at Meal Prep on Fleek.

Time Breakdown for Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Preparation Time

Getting everything ready for your Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a breeze! It takes about 15 minutes to gather and prep your ingredients. This includes slicing the chicken, measuring out your sauce components, and setting the stage for a flavorful meal.

Cooking Time

Once you’re prepped, the cooking process takes around 35 minutes. This involves searing the chicken to achieve that lovely golden crust and simmering the sauce until it's rich and creamy.

Total Time

In just 50 minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering Garlic Parmesan Chicken dish ready to serve! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing your friends on the weekend.

For tips on how to best prepare your ingredients, check out this helpful cooking guide that provides additional insights and tricks!

Nutritional Facts for Garlic Parmesan Chicken

When it comes to indulging in flavorful meals, Garlic Parmesan Chicken hits the spot! Here's a closer look at the nutrition in each serving:

Calories Count

Each serving of this scrumptious dish contains approximately 351 calories. It's a hearty option without being overly filling, perfect for a satisfying dinner!

Protein Content

Packed with protein, this chicken dish provides about 35 grams per serving. This makes it a fantastic choice for muscle repair and energy renewal, especially after a workout.

Sodium Levels

While the Garlic Parmesan Chicken is delicious, it does contain around 900 mg of sodium. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium broth and minimizing added salt to keep it balanced.

For more nutritional insights, check out Healthline and Eat This, Not That for tips on healthy eating!

FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Chicken

How can I make my garlic Parmesan chicken creamier?

To add an extra creamy touch to your Garlic Parmesan Chicken, consider boosting the heavy cream to ½ cup or incorporating a bit of cream cheese into the sauce. You can also use full-fat sour cream or mascarpone for richness—all great choices that will elevate your dish.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you're looking for a lighter option or simply don't have heavy cream on hand, full-fat coconut milk or a mixture of milk and butter can work wonders. For those with lactose intolerance, almond or soy milk can be used, adding a bit of extra flour to thicken the sauce.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative to breasts, bringing more flavor and moisture to your Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Just adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. Also, check out more tips on perfecting your chicken dish on Cooking Light.

Conclusion on Garlic Parmesan Chicken

In summary, Garlic Parmesan Chicken is an easy and flavorful dish that can elevate your dinner routine. With its creamy, garlicky sauce and tender chicken, it’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in. Pair it with your favorite sides, and savor every bite! For more delicious meal ideas, check out this link or explore our cooking tips.