Description: This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is an easy-to-make, incredibly flavorful dish that elevates simple chicken breasts into a restaurant-quality meal. The crispy, parmesan-infused crust pairs perfectly with the rich and decadent creamy garlic sauce, making it a family favorite for any night of the week. This recipe is designed for simplicity and deliciousness, ensuring even novice cooks can create a dish that impresses.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best for flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (freshly minced is highly recommended)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and the parmesan crust becomes nicely browned and crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Parchment paper also helps the bottom of the chicken crisp up without burning.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a shallow dish (a pie plate or a wide bowl works well), combine the all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. This even distribution is key to achieving a consistently flavored and perfectly seasoned crust.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken: Take each chicken breast and dredge it in the Parmesan-flour mixture. Make sure to coat each breast evenly on all sides, pressing gently to help the mixture adhere. This ensures a consistent and delicious parmesan crust. Shake off any excess flour to prevent the crust from becoming too thick or gummy.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked safely and perfectly.
Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce: While the chicken is baking, prepare the creamy garlic sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Be careful not to brown the butter, as this can alter the flavor of the sauce. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Sautéing the garlic briefly releases its aromatic oils, enhancing the flavor of the sauce.
Step 6: Finish the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan. Whisk the ingredients together thoroughly. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to boil the sauce, as this can cause it to separate. The sauce should be smooth, creamy, and have a luxurious texture.
Step 7: Serve: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two. Arrange the baked chicken breasts on serving plates. Generously drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a pinch of extra Parmesan cheese for added visual appeal and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. You’ll adore this recipe because:
- It’s Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of the savory Parmesan crust and the rich, garlicky sauce is a taste sensation that will leave you craving more.
- It’s Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even beginner cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results.
- It’s Versatile: This dish can be paired with a variety of sides, making it suitable for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a more formal gathering.
- It’s a Crowd-Pleaser: Both adults and children love the delicious flavors and textures of this recipe. It’s guaranteed to be a hit at your dinner table.
- It’s Customizable: Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your preferences. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or experiment with different types of cheese in the crust.
- Quick weeknight meal: Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Elevated comfort food: Takes classic comfort food to a new level with sophisticated flavors.
- Simple ingredients: Uses readily available ingredients, making it easy to shop for.
- Impressive presentation: The golden-brown crust and creamy sauce create an appealing presentation.
COOKING Rating
Ease of Preparation: Beginner
Flavor Profile: Savory, Rich, Garlicky
Overall Deliciousness: 5/5 Stars
Serving Suggestions:
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy and colorful meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with this dish.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Pasta: Toss the chicken and sauce with your favorite pasta for a complete and comforting dish.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken and sauce.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for soaking up every last drop of the delicious creamy garlic sauce.
- Garlic Bread: Compliments the flavours in the sauce
Tips:
- For an extra crispy crust, try using panko breadcrumbs in addition to the Parmesan cheese and flour mixture.
- If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich and thick.
- Adjust the amount of garlic in the sauce to your liking. If you prefer a more intense garlic flavor, add an extra clove or two.
- To prevent the chicken from drying out, you can brine it for 30 minutes before cooking.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a tablespoon or two of milk or chicken broth to thin it out.
- Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 40-50g
- Sodium: 500-700mg
Conclusion
The Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create a truly exceptional dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. The crispy, cheesy crust and the luscious, garlicky sauce make this chicken irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors that make this dish a standout.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the chicken breasts completely before preparing them. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which will help the Parmesan crust adhere better and crisp up nicely. Thawing the chicken in the refrigerator overnight is the safest and most recommended method.
Q2: What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
A: If you’re looking for a substitute for Parmesan cheese, you have several options. Pecorino Romano is a great alternative with a similar salty and sharp flavor. Asiago cheese also works well and provides a slightly milder, nutty taste. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor to the crust, although the texture will be different.
Q3: Can I make the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time. Prepare the sauce as directed, let it cool slightly, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to use it, gently reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s smooth and warmed through. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.
Q4: How can I make this recipe healthier?
A: To make this recipe healthier, you can make a few modifications. Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for the chicken coating. Reduce the amount of butter in the sauce by using a combination of butter and olive oil. You can also use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream to lower the fat content. Serve with a side of steamed or grilled vegetables for a more nutritious meal.
Q5: Can I bake the chicken in an air fryer instead of an oven?
A: Yes, you can definitely bake the chicken in an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on the chicken to prevent it from burning. This method can be faster and result in an even crispier crust compared to baking in the oven.
