This Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe is a mouthwatering delight that combines juicy chicken breasts with a creamy, garlic-infused sauce. Perfect for dinner parties or a cozy weeknight meal, this dish is not only comforting but also easy to prepare. The rich flavors of Parmesan cheese and white wine will impress your guests and satisfy your family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs creates a luscious sauce that elevates the chicken.
- Versatile: This dish pairs well with various sides like pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or an elegant gathering, Garlic Parmesan Chicken is sure to please.
- One-Pan Wonder: With minimal cleanup required, you can enjoy the meal without the hassle of multiple dishes.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need for this recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Meat mallet
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Silicone spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Provides ample space for searing chicken and reducing sauce effectively.
- Meat mallet: Ensures even cooking by pounding chicken to the right thickness.
- Measuring cups: Guarantees precision in ingredient quantities for consistent results.
- Silicone spatula: Scrapes the pan efficiently to capture all those flavorful bits.
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
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a large measuring cup, combine all sauce ingredients and set aside. Prepare and measure remaining ingredients.
Step 2: Slice the Chicken
Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create 2–3 thinner cutlets. Cover with plastic wrap and pound to ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and parsley.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large (12-inch) skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken in batches for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
Turn off the heat. Pour in the white wine and return the heat to medium. Scrape the bottom of the skillet with a silicone spatula to release browned bits (fond) for added flavor. Let the wine simmer and reduce by half (about 2 minutes).
Step 6: Add Garlic
Add the minced garlic and cook for 2–3 more minutes.
Step 7: Thicken Sauce
Stir in the butter and flour, cooking for 1–2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the sauce mixture while stirring constantly. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8 minutes to thicken.
Step 8: Finish with Cheese
Lower heat to low and gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add lemon juice and stir well.
Step 9: Combine Chicken & Sauce
Return seared chicken to skillet and spoon sauce over it. Heat for an additional 5 minutes or until warmed through and sauce reaches desired thickness.
Step 10: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot alongside mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.
With Pasta
- Fettuccine or Linguine: Toss cooked pasta with olive oil and garlic for a simple, flavorful base.
- Penne Arrabbiata: The spicy tomato sauce complements the creamy chicken perfectly.
On a Bed of Greens
- Mixed Greens Salad: Serve the chicken over fresh greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Caesar Salad: The classic Caesar dressing adds a rich flavor that pairs well with the garlic Parmesan sauce.
Accompanied by Bread
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy side that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Crusty French Baguette: Perfect for dipping into the rich garlic Parmesan sauce.
With Roasted Vegetables
- Seasonal Veggies: Roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Asparagus or Broccoli: These green veggies bring freshness and texture to your meal.
How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Perfecting your Garlic Parmesan Chicken involves attention to detail in preparation and cooking. Here are some essential tips for achieving the best results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance flavor significantly compared to dried alternatives.
- Don’t Skip Pounding the Chicken: Ensuring even thickness in the chicken cutlets promotes uniform cooking and tenderness.
- Sear at the Right Temperature: Achieving a golden brown crust requires medium-high heat; too low can lead to steaming instead of searing.
- Deglaze Properly: Scraping up browned bits during deglazing adds depth of flavor to your sauce.
- Stir Constantly When Adding Sauce: This prevents lumps from forming when combining the butter, flour, and broth mixture.
- Taste Before Serving: Adjust seasoning as needed right before serving for maximum flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Pairing side dishes with Garlic Parmesan Chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish perfectly.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.
- Steamed Rice: Fluffy rice serves as a neutral backdrop, allowing the garlic Parmesan flavors to shine through.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with vegetables offers a healthy alternative packed with nutrients.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances out the savory chicken flavors.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: This summer favorite adds a touch of sweetness and crunch to your meal.
- Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): A low-carb option that brings freshness while soaking up the delicious sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
This section highlights common pitfalls when making Garlic Parmesan Chicken, helping you achieve the best results.
- Skipping the pounding step: Not flattening your chicken breasts can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to pound them to ½-inch thickness for even doneness.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese can lack flavor and texture. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for a richer taste and better melting properties.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Sear until golden brown and ensure it’s just cooked through when returning it to the sauce.
- Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Don’t forget to season both sides of the chicken generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Not reducing the wine properly: Skipping this step can result in a watery sauce. Allow the wine to simmer until it reduces by half for a concentrated flavor.
- Neglecting garnish: A simple garnish of parsley can elevate your dish’s appearance. Always finish with fresh herbs for a vibrant touch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep the sauce separate from the chicken to maintain texture.
Freezing Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Label containers with date for easy tracking.
Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a delicious dish featuring juicy chicken breasts cooked in a creamy sauce made with garlic, white wine, and Parmesan cheese.
How do I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch when thickening the sauce.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and tenderness but may require slightly longer cooking times.
What side dishes pair well with Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted vegetables. Choose your favorite sides!
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Parmesan Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a weeknight meal, this comforting recipe is sure to impress. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting seasonings based on your preference.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Garlic Parmesan Chicken, a creamy and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe features tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and smothered in a rich garlic-infused sauce made with Parmesan cheese and white wine. It’s an effortless one-pan meal that impresses guests at dinner parties while being easy enough for a cozy weeknight dinner with family. Served hot alongside your favorite sides, this comforting dish will quickly become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- Olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley
Instructions
- Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise and pound to ½-inch thickness. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, deglaze with white wine, scraping up browned bits for added flavor. Simmer until reduced by half.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 2–3 minutes. Stir in butter and flour; cook until slightly thickened.
- Gradually add the sauce mixture and bring to a boil. Lower heat, stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Return chicken to skillet, spoon sauce over it, and heat through for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with sauce (about 200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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