Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort to your dining table. Featuring tender, juicy chicken breasts enveloped in a creamy garlic and Parmesan sauce, this dish is perfect for both special occasions and cozy weeknight dinners. Its rich taste will impress your guests while still being simple enough for a family meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe uses simple steps and common ingredients to create an impressive dish with minimal effort.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and white wine creates a rich sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile pairing: Serve it with mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted vegetables to suit any meal preference.
• Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for dinner parties or gatherings, this dish appeals to a wide range of tastes.
• Quick preparation: With a total time of just 50 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Garlic Parmesan Chicken, gather the essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand makes the process smoother and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet (12-inch)
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Silicone spatula
• Meat mallet
• Large measuring cup

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A wide skillet allows for even cooking and proper sauce reduction.
• Meat mallet: Helps achieve even thickness in chicken cutlets for better cooking.
• Silicone spatula: Great for scraping the fond from the skillet to enhance flavor.

Ingredients

For the Sauce:
* 1¾ cups chicken broth
* ¼ cup heavy cream
* 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1 teaspoon mustard powder
* 1 teaspoon honey
* ½ chicken bouillon cube
* ½ teaspoon onion powder
* ½ teaspoon oregano
* ½ teaspoon basil
* ½ teaspoon parsley

For the Chicken & Other:
* 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 2 teaspoons parsley
* 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
* ¾ cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, or Sauvignon Blanc; or use chicken broth as a substitute)
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 3 tablespoons butter
* 3 tablespoons flour
* ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

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How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

In a large measuring cup, combine all sauce ingredients. Set aside while you prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create 2–3 thinner cutlets.
2. Cover with plastic wrap and pound to ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet.
3. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and parsley.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the chicken in batches for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

1. Turn off the heat and pour in the white wine.
2. Return heat to medium and scrape the bottom of the skillet with a silicone spatula to release browned bits (fond).
3. Let simmer and reduce by half (about 2 minutes).

Step 5: Add Garlic and Thicken

1. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
2. Stir in butter and flour; cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
3. Gradually pour in sauce mixture while stirring constantly until it reaches a boil; reduce heat and simmer for about 8 minutes until thickened.

Step 6: Finish the Dish

1. Lower heat to low; gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
2. Add lemon juice; stir well.
3. Return seared chicken to skillet; spoon sauce over top.
4. Heat for an additional 5 minutes or until warmed through.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot alongside your favorite sides!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes complement the rich sauce, making every bite delightful.

Over Pasta

• Toss cooked pasta in the sauce for a comforting, hearty dish. You can use fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne.

With Roasted Vegetables

• A medley of roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your plate. Think bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh parsley or basil enhances the dish’s flavor and presentation.

As a Sandwich

• Slice the chicken and serve it on a toasted bun with arugula and garlic aioli for a tasty sandwich option.

With Salad

• Pair Garlic Parmesan Chicken with a light green salad for a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.

How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken

To ensure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan cheese greatly enhance the flavor of the dish.
• Pound Chicken Evenly: Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness allows for uniform cooking and tenderness.
• Don’t Skip Deglazing: Scraping up browned bits from the skillet after searing the chicken adds depth of flavor to your sauce.
• Simmer Sauce Properly: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps thicken it and melds all the flavors beautifully.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference before serving.
• Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken right after cooking while it’s hot and saucy.

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Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Garlic Parmesan Chicken pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy side that adds crunch. Simply steam until bright green.
2. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce. Toast slices of bread with butter and garlic.
3. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs is a great base for this savory chicken.
4. Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that’s creamy and satisfying.
5. Green Beans Almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed with almonds add texture and nutty flavor.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing offers a fresh contrast to the rich chicken.
7. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts bring a unique taste that complements the dish well.
8. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and balances the meal’s richness nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Parmesan Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season both sides with salt, pepper, and herbs before cooking.
• Using low-quality cheese: Using pre-grated Parmesan can result in a less flavorful sauce. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste and meltability.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can dry it out. Monitor cooking times closely and remove the chicken once it reaches a golden brown color.
• Neglecting to scrape the skillet: Forgetting to scrape up the browned bits from the skillet means missing out on essential flavors. Always deglaze your skillet after searing the chicken.
• Rushing the sauce: Trying to thicken the sauce too quickly can lead to clumps. Allow it to simmer gently for optimal texture and flavor development.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Garlic Parmesan Chicken in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation inside the container.

Freezing Garlic Parmesan Chicken

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It will maintain its quality for up to 3 months.
• For best results, portion out servings before freezing.

Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed. Cook until heated through, stirring occasionally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

You can pair Garlic Parmesan Chicken with mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! This recipe is also great with pork chops or even shrimp for a seafood twist on this creamy dish.

Is Garlic Parmesan Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare and store this dish ahead of time for quick meals throughout the week.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make Garlic Parmesan Chicken gluten-free, substitute flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend in the sauce preparation.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! You can toss in spinach or mushrooms while making the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a delightful dish that brings rich flavors and comforting textures together. Its versatility allows you to customize it easily by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Don’t hesitate—try this delicious recipe for your next family dinner!