Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy weeknight meal, this dish always impresses. It features tender chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection and enveloped in a rich, creamy garlic sauce that brings warmth and flavor to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Creamy: The rich garlic Parmesan sauce makes every bite indulgent.
• Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you can prepare this dish in just under an hour.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve it with pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for both casual family dinners and special gatherings.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: A unique blend of garlic and Parmesan that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Garlic Parmesan Chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools that simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Meat mallet
• Measuring cup
• Silicone spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space to sear chicken evenly and allows for proper sauce reduction.
• Meat mallet: Ensures the chicken cooks quickly and evenly by creating thinner cutlets.

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

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 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: Make the Sauce

1. Turn off the heat; pour in the white wine.
2. Return heat to medium and scrape up browned bits from the skillet with a silicone spatula.
3. Let wine simmer and reduce by half (about 2 minutes).
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Thicken Your Sauce

1. Stir in butter and flour; cook for 1–2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.
2. Gradually pour in your prepared sauce mixture while stirring constantly.
3. Bring to a boil then reduce heat; simmer for 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 back into skillet; spoon sauce over top.
4. Heat for another 5 minutes until warmed through.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or pasta.

Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect comfort food pairing, soaking up the rich sauce from the chicken.

Over Pasta

• Serve this flavorful chicken on a bed of pasta, allowing the creamy garlic sauce to coat each strand for a delightful meal.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate, balancing the richness of the Garlic Parmesan Chicken.

With a Fresh Salad

• A light, fresh salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish, making it a great starter or side.

Paired with Rice

• Fluffy rice or risotto can absorb the delicious sauce, making every bite satisfying and complete.

In a Sandwich

• For a twist, slice the chicken and serve it in a crusty roll with extra sauce for a tasty sandwich option.

How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhance flavor significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Pound the Chicken Evenly: Pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook uniformly and remain juicy.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on cooking times; overcooking can lead to dry chicken. Aim for golden brown on the outside while keeping it moist inside.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust seasonings as needed. A touch more salt or herbs can elevate the dish.
• Let it Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest briefly. This allows juices to redistribute for better flavor.
• Choose Quality Wine: If using wine, pick one you enjoy drinking; its flavor will impact your dish’s overall taste.

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Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken

When planning a meal around Garlic Parmesan Chicken, consider these delicious side dishes that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce on your plate.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and freshness alongside the creamy chicken.
3. Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that provides creaminess without the extra carbs.
4. Quinoa Salad: A hearty quinoa salad tossed with vegetables adds texture and nutrients to your meal.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with savory chicken flavors.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Adds elegance and a pop of color while providing a crunchy texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Parmesan Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you avoid these pitfalls.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland results. Always season both sides with salt, pepper, and herbs before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for perfect juiciness.
• Skipping fresh ingredients: Using pre-minced garlic or low-quality cheese can diminish flavor. Opt for fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste.
• Ignoring sauce thickness: If you don’t let the sauce simmer long enough, it may be too thin. Allow it to reduce properly for a creamy consistency.
• Neglecting resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can release juices. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing for maximum moisture retention.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Parmesan Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water and reheat the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Garlic Parmesan Chicken.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! You can substitute boneless skinless chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer darker meat; just adjust cooking time as needed.

What side dishes pair well with Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

Delicious sides include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or pasta tossed in olive oil or butter.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare everything in advance and store it separately until you’re ready to cook.

How do I customize my Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition!

Is there a non-alcoholic version of this recipe?

Yes! Substitute white wine with additional chicken broth for a fully flavorful dish without alcohol.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Chicken offers a delightful combination of flavors that is sure to please any crowd. Its creamy sauce makes it versatile enough to serve with various sides like pasta or veggies. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting seasonings! Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!