Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken has become a staple in our household, and for good reason. From the moment the aroma of garlic and parmesan starts to fill the kitchen, you know you’re in for a treat. My family, even the pickiest eaters, absolutely devour this dish every single time I make it. It’s the perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying, making it a weeknight winner and fancy enough to serve to guests. The simplicity of the recipe is deceptive; the flavor is anything but basic. If you’re looking for a chicken recipe that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, look no further than this Garlic Parmesan Chicken. It’s tender, juicy, and coated in a luscious, flavorful sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds – and maybe thirds!

Ingredients

To create this delectable Garlic Parmesan Chicken, you’ll need a handful of readily available ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; each component plays a crucial role in building the final flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need to gather to embark on this culinary adventure:

• Chicken Breasts: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Opt for chicken breasts that are similar in size to ensure even cooking. You can also use chicken tenderloins for faster cooking, but breasts offer a heartier, more substantial bite. Consider using organic or free-range chicken for enhanced flavor and ethical sourcing if that aligns with your preferences. If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, you might want to butterfly them or pound them to an even thickness to ensure they cook through evenly without drying out.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, freshly grated is highly recommended. Pre-grated parmesan often contains cellulose and anti-caking agents, which can affect its melting and flavor. Freshly grated parmesan has a superior texture and a more intense, nutty flavor that is essential to this dish. For an even richer flavor, consider using a blend of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheese – the Pecorino adds a sharper, saltier dimension that complements the Parmesan beautifully.
• Garlic: 6 cloves garlic, minced. Fresh garlic is non-negotiable in this recipe. Garlic powder simply cannot replicate the pungent, aromatic depth that fresh garlic provides. Mincing the garlic finely ensures it distributes evenly throughout the sauce and infuses every bite with its signature flavor. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two – this recipe can certainly handle it! Roasting the garlic beforehand can also mellow its sharpness and bring out a sweeter, more nuanced garlic flavor if you prefer a less intense garlic punch.
• Butter: ½ cup unsalted butter. Butter is the foundation of the luscious sauce, providing richness, flavor, and that beautiful golden-brown color. Unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish, especially considering the saltiness of the parmesan cheese. If you only have salted butter on hand, reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe. For an even richer flavor, consider using European-style butter, which has a higher butterfat content.
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup heavy cream. Heavy cream adds a luxurious creaminess to the sauce, creating a velvety texture that coats the chicken perfectly. It also helps to balance the sharpness of the parmesan and garlic. For a slightly lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich and thick. Avoid using milk, as it will be too thin and won’t provide the desired creamy consistency.
• Dried Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning. This blend of herbs adds a layer of complexity and aromatic depth to the dish. Italian seasoning typically includes a mix of oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram, creating a classic Mediterranean flavor profile that complements the garlic and parmesan beautifully. If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can create your own blend using equal parts of dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste. Salt is crucial for enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to taste at the end of cooking. Remember that parmesan cheese is already quite salty, so be mindful of not over-salting. Sea salt or kosher salt are preferred for their cleaner flavor compared to iodized table salt.
• Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground is preferred. Freshly ground black pepper adds a pungent, aromatic spice that complements the other flavors and provides a subtle kick. Pre-ground pepper loses its aroma and flavor over time, so freshly ground is always the better choice. You can also experiment with different types of pepper, such as white pepper for a milder heat or peppercorn medley for added complexity.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish): 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish. Its bright, herbaceous flavor provides a welcome contrast to the richness of the sauce. Italian flat-leaf parsley is preferred for its more robust flavor compared to curly parsley. Other fresh herbs like chives or basil can also be used as garnish if preferred.

Instructions

Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken is surprisingly straightforward and requires minimal culinary expertise. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is essential to ensure the oven is at the correct temperature when you place the chicken in, promoting even cooking and preventing the chicken from drying out. Make sure your oven is properly calibrated to ensure accurate temperature readings. An oven thermometer can be helpful for this.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear and preventing the chicken from steaming instead of browning. Dry chicken will brown more effectively in the oven. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning, as it’s the foundation of the flavor.
3. Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron skillet works exceptionally well) over medium heat, melt the butter. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Burnt garlic will taste bitter and ruin the flavor of the sauce. Stir constantly while sautéing the garlic to prevent burning. The aroma of sautéing garlic is a wonderful indication that you’re on the right track!
4. Create the Parmesan Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the melted butter and garlic. Slowly add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Stirring constantly prevents the cheese from clumping and ensures a smooth, emulsified sauce. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens slightly – it should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
5. Add Italian Seasoning: Stir in the dried Italian seasoning into the sauce. This will infuse the sauce with aromatic herbs and add another layer of flavor complexity. Make sure the Italian seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
6. Place Chicken in Sauce: Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet, nestling them into the parmesan sauce. Ensure that the chicken is mostly submerged in the sauce – this will help keep it moist and flavorful during baking. If your skillet is not large enough to comfortably fit all the chicken breasts in a single layer, you may need to use two skillets or bake in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.
7. Bake in the Oven: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to accurately check the internal temperature of the chicken – insert it into the thickest part of the breast, avoiding the bone. Baking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts and your oven. Check for doneness around the 20-minute mark and adjust baking time accordingly. The chicken should be opaque and no longer pink in the center when cooked through.
8. Broil for Golden Brown Top (Optional): For an extra golden-brown and slightly crispy top, you can broil the chicken for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on the chicken while broiling to prevent burning. Broiling adds a beautiful visual appeal and enhances the cheesy crust on top.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately while hot and the sauce is still creamy and luscious.

Nutrition Facts

(Estimated Nutrition Facts per Serving)

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 550-650 calories (This is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Approximate Macronutrient Breakdown per Serving:

• Protein: 50-60 grams
• Fat: 35-45 grams
• Carbohydrates: 5-10 grams (primarily from dairy in the sauce)

Important Notes:

• These are estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and types of ingredients used.
• Portion sizes can significantly impact the nutritional values.
• This recipe is relatively high in fat due to the butter, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese.
• Consider serving with lighter sides like steamed vegetables or a salad to balance the richness of the dish.
• For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the exact brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (This includes gathering ingredients, mincing garlic, grating parmesan, and seasoning chicken.)
• Cook Time: 25 minutes (This includes sautéing garlic, making the sauce, and baking the chicken.)
• Total Time: 40 minutes (From start to finish, this dish can be on your table in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.)

How to Serve

Garlic Parmesan Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to create a complete and satisfying meal:

• Pasta:
  • Linguine or Spaghetti: Tossed with a little of the garlic parmesan sauce from the chicken skillet, these long pasta shapes are perfect for twirling and soaking up all that creamy goodness.
  • Penne or Rotini: These shorter, tubular pasta shapes are also excellent choices and hold the sauce well.
  • Angel Hair Pasta: For a lighter option, angel hair pasta cooks quickly and provides a delicate base for the rich chicken and sauce.
• Vegetables:
  • Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus: Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and provides a healthy and flavorful side dish that complements the richness of the chicken.
  • Green Beans: Steamed, sautéed, or roasted green beans offer a crisp and refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken.
  • Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Embrace the parmesan theme and roast Brussels sprouts with garlic and parmesan for a doubly delicious and complementary side.
  • Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich and savory chicken.
• Grains and Starches:
  • Rice (White or Brown): Fluffy white rice or nutty brown rice are excellent for soaking up the extra garlic parmesan sauce.
  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food pairing that works beautifully with Garlic Parmesan Chicken, allowing you to create a truly indulgent meal.
  • Quinoa: For a healthier grain option, quinoa provides protein and fiber and is a versatile side that pairs well with the chicken.
• Bread:
  • Crusty Bread or Baguette: Serve with slices of crusty bread or baguette to soak up every last drop of the delicious garlic parmesan sauce.
  • Garlic Bread: If you’re a true garlic lover, double down on the garlic flavor and serve with homemade or store-bought garlic bread.

Additional Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Here are five essential tips to ensure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a resounding success every time:

1. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Resist the temptation to use pre-grated parmesan cheese. Freshly grated parmesan melts much smoother and has a significantly richer, more nuanced flavor. The pre-grated stuff often contains cellulose to prevent clumping, which can affect its texture and melting properties in the sauce. Grating your own parmesan is a small effort that makes a big difference in the final taste and texture of the dish.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken breasts are lean and can easily become dry and tough if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure you cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Start checking for doneness around the 20-minute mark and adjust baking time as needed. Overcooked chicken will be dry and less enjoyable, so precise cooking is key to tender, juicy results.
3. Mind the Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for this recipe, but burnt garlic is a flavor disaster. Sauté the minced garlic over medium-low heat until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, and watch it closely to prevent burning. Burnt garlic will impart a bitter taste to the entire dish. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, you can roast the garlic cloves before mincing them, which mellows their sharpness and brings out their sweetness.
4. Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it for a few minutes longer on the stovetop before adding the chicken, allowing it to reduce and concentrate. Alternatively, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a little cold water) to the sauce while it’s simmering to thicken it quickly. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of chicken broth or milk.
5. Customize the Flavor: While the classic garlic parmesan flavor is delicious on its own, feel free to experiment with other flavor additions. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, or a sprinkle of dried herbs like oregano or thyme for added complexity. You can also incorporate other cheeses into the sauce, such as Pecorino Romano for a saltier, sharper flavor or a blend of parmesan and mozzarella for extra cheesiness and stretch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

A: Yes, you can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Chicken thighs are more forgiving and tend to stay moister than breasts, especially if slightly overcooked. They will require a slightly longer cooking time, approximately 25-30 minutes, to reach an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C) for optimal tenderness and flavor. Keep in mind that chicken thighs are fattier than breasts, which will slightly alter the nutritional profile of the dish.

Q2: Can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken ahead of time?

A: While Garlic Parmesan Chicken is best served fresh, you can prepare certain components ahead of time to save time on a busy day. You can season the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also make the parmesan sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to cook, simply reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop, add the chicken, and bake as directed. However, the texture of the sauce might change slightly upon reheating, becoming a bit thicker.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave it in short intervals until heated through, or reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Adding a splash of chicken broth or milk when reheating can help to restore some moisture to the sauce and prevent the chicken from drying out.

Q4: Can I make this recipe dairy-free or gluten-free?

A: To make this recipe dairy-free, you would need to substitute the butter, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese with dairy-free alternatives. Dairy-free butter substitutes and heavy cream alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream can be used, but they will alter the flavor and texture of the sauce. For a parmesan cheese substitute, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy, savory flavor, though it won’t melt in the same way as parmesan. To make it gluten-free, ensure you are serving it with gluten-free sides like rice, quinoa, or gluten-free pasta. The Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe itself is naturally gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free Italian seasoning.

Q5: What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

A: If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, you can easily make your own blend. Combine equal parts of dried oregano, dried basil, and dried thyme. You can also add a pinch of dried rosemary and marjoram if you have them. This homemade blend will provide a similar aromatic profile to store-bought Italian seasoning and work perfectly in this recipe. You can also use a single herb like dried oregano or thyme if you don’t have a variety of dried herbs available, though the flavor will be less complex than with a blend.

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