Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the irresistible combination of garlic, parmesan, and tender chicken sizzling in a creamy sauce. This recipe is a surefire winner, perfect for family dinners, cozy date nights, or when you’re simply craving a comforting homemade meal.

this Recipe

I stumbled upon this recipe when trying to recreate a restaurant favorite at home, and now, it's a staple in our household. With its rich flavor and simple ingredients, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a dish you'll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Get ready to add a new favorite to your recipe rotation! This Garlic Parmesan Chicken is packed with flavor and offers several reasons to fall in love.

First and foremost, this dish is quick and easy to make. In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal on the table. It’s a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a meal that’s both hearty and hassle-free.

Another reason to love this recipe is its family-friendly appeal. The creamy garlic parmesan sauce is rich without being overpowering, making it a hit with adults and kids alike. Pair it with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a side of vegetables for a complete meal.

Budget-conscious cooks will appreciate how affordable this recipe is. It uses simple pantry staples like butter, garlic, and parmesan cheese, along with chicken breasts or thighs, for a cost-effective dinner.

Lastly, this dish is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking to customize with fresh herbs or want to make it keto-friendly by skipping the breadcrumbs, this recipe adapts beautifully to your preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to the bold, comforting flavor of Garlic Parmesan Chicken lies in its simple, yet perfectly paired ingredients. Let’s dive into what makes each component shine.

Chicken Breasts or Thighs:
For this recipe, I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly, while chicken thighs bring extra juiciness and richness to the dish. Both work beautifully, so choose what you prefer.

Garlic:
Fresh garlic is the star of this dish! Minced garlic infuses the sauce with an aromatic depth that pairs perfectly with the parmesan. Aim for 3-4 cloves or more if you’re a garlic lover.

Parmesan Cheese:
The nutty, salty flavor of freshly grated parmesan elevates this dish to gourmet status. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly into the sauce.

Heavy Cream:
For the sauce, heavy cream is your best choice. It creates a luxuriously creamy texture that coats every bite of chicken. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half, though the sauce will be thinner.

Chicken Broth:
A splash of chicken broth adds depth to the sauce and helps balance the richness of the cream. It also helps deglaze the pan for maximum flavor.

Breadcrumbs (optional):
For a crispy finish, lightly breaded chicken adds delightful texture. Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy coating.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe – just a large skillet, a sharp knife, and a grater for the parmesan.

How to Make This Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Creating this delightful dish is as simple as following a few straightforward steps. Let’s walk through it together.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika for added flavor and color. If using breadcrumbs, coat the chicken lightly by dredging it in flour, dipping it in egg, and then pressing it into the breadcrumbs.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt a few tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Parmesan
Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Gradually add the freshly grated parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning.

Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over each piece. Simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to reheat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for both weeknights and special occasions.

Storage Options

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken is just as delightful the next day, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.

Refrigeration:
Store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken is fully cooled before sealing the container.

Freezing:
While the sauce may slightly separate when frozen, the dish still freezes well. Place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating:
To reheat, warm the chicken and sauce gently in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best parts about this recipe is how easily you can adapt it to your tastes or dietary needs.

• Keto-Friendly: Skip the breadcrumbs and use almond flour for dredging if desired. Serve with zoodles or a side of roasted vegetables for a low-carb meal.
• Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary to the sauce for an herby flavor boost.
• Spicy Version: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce for a hint of heat.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Swap out some of the parmesan for romano or asiago cheese for a unique flavor twist.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Use tofu or cauliflower in place of chicken for a plant-based version that’s just as satisfying.

Experiment with different combinations to make this recipe your own. No matter how you customize it, this dish is sure to impress!

Now that you have the recipe, it’s time to grab your ingredients and get cooking. Your kitchen will soon be filled with the mouthwatering aroma of garlic and parmesan – a sure sign of a delicious meal ahead!

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