Description: A delectable and surprisingly simple recipe for Parmesan Crusted Chicken paired with a luscious Creamy Garlic Sauce. This dish elevates the humble chicken breast into a restaurant-worthy meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The crispy, cheesy crust gives way to tender, juicy chicken, while the creamy garlic sauce adds a rich and flavorful finish.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper (plus more to taste)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Optional garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Ensure the oven is fully preheated for even cooking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the chicken from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the Parmesan crust mixture. In a shallow dish, whisk together the all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. The Parmesan cheese should be finely grated for the best texture.
Step 3: Prepare the chicken breasts. If the chicken breasts are very thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This will ensure they cook evenly and quickly. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This will help the Parmesan crust adhere better.
Step 4: Coat the chicken breasts. Dip each chicken breast into the Parmesan mixture, pressing firmly to coat both sides evenly. Ensure the entire surface of the chicken is covered with the mixture. Shake off any excess flour mixture.
Step 5: Bake the chicken. Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast.
Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce. While the chicken is baking, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Use a saucepan with a light-colored bottom so you can monitor the browning of the butter.
Step 7: Sauté the garlic. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. Stir constantly.
Step 8: Create the sauce. Whisk in the heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 9: Serve. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two. Place the chicken on a plate and drizzle generously with the warm Creamy Garlic Sauce.
Step 10: Garnish. Garnish with fresh parsley, chopped, if desired. This adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several compelling reasons:
- Ease of Preparation: This recipe is remarkably simple to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. The steps are straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. You can have a delicious and impressive meal on the table in just 30 minutes.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of the crispy, savory Parmesan crust and the rich, creamy garlic sauce creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The chicken is tender and juicy, and the sauce adds a luxurious element that elevates the dish to a gourmet experience.
- Versatile: This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences. You can use different types of cheese in the crust, experiment with various herbs and spices, or adjust the thickness of the sauce to your liking. It pairs well with a variety of side dishes, making it a perfect main course for any occasion.
- Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown, crispy chicken drizzled with creamy white sauce is visually appealing and makes a stunning presentation. It’s a dish that will impress your family and friends, whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special celebration.
- Family-Friendly: This recipe is a hit with both kids and adults. The familiar flavors and comforting textures make it a perfect family meal. Even picky eaters will enjoy the crispy chicken and creamy sauce.
- Quick and Convenient: Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal on the table fast.
COOKING Rating:
Easy to medium
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
- Pair with a simple salad for a light and refreshing meal.
- Serve over pasta or rice to soak up the delicious Creamy Garlic Sauce.
- Accompany with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a comforting and hearty meal.
- A crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce.
Tips:
- For a crispier crust, use finely grated Parmesan cheese.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, or the chicken will steam instead of bake.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to 165°F (74°C).
- If the Creamy Garlic Sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin it out.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the Parmesan crust or the sauce. Italian seasoning, dried oregano, or a pinch of red pepper flakes would all be delicious additions.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for added flavor.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per serving, may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
- Calories: 550-650
- Protein: 40-50g
- Sodium: 600-800mg
Conclusion:
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a recipe that you’ll find yourself making again and again. It’s easy, flavorful, and impressive – the perfect combination for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The crispy, cheesy crust and the rich, creamy sauce make this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use different types of cheese in the crust?
A: Absolutely! While Parmesan cheese provides a classic flavor, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a blend of Parmesan and Gruyere for a richer, nuttier flavor. Just be sure to use a finely grated cheese for the best texture.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While the chicken is best served fresh, you can prepare the Parmesan crust mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also make the Creamy Garlic Sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently over low heat before serving. However, it’s best to bake the chicken just before serving to ensure it’s crispy and juicy.
Q3: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream in the sauce?
A: Yes, you can substitute milk for heavy cream in the sauce, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. For a creamier sauce with milk, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water to the sauce and simmer until thickened.
Q4: Can I bake the chicken at a lower temperature for a longer time?
A: Yes, you can bake the chicken at a lower temperature, such as 375°F (190°C), for a longer time, about 25-30 minutes. This will result in a more tender and juicy chicken breast, but the crust may not be as crispy. Just be sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to 165°F (74°C).
Q5: Can I add other flavors to the Creamy Garlic Sauce?
A: Definitely! The Creamy Garlic Sauce is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. You can add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary for added flavor. A splash of white wine or chicken broth can also add depth and complexity to the sauce.
