Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Introduction

Have you ever wondered how a single dish can elevate dinner from mundane to extraordinary? With its golden, crispy layer and luscious garlic sauce, Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce does just that. This dish is not only a delight to the taste buds but also a wonderful comfort meal that can be made in under 90 minutes—a time-saving grace that’s 20% less than many traditional dinner recipes. Let’s dive into this delectable culinary journey.

Ingredients Needed

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Your protein powerhouse—tender and juicy, perfect for soaking up the sauce’s flavors.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This creates the perfect coating to give your chicken that desired crunch.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty flavor that enhances the chicken’s taste.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Packed with garlicky goodness for that essential aromatic flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth and sweetness to the savory profile.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken perfectly.
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: A little spice to elevate the entire dish.
• 1/2 cup butter: Richness that helps achieve a beautifully golden crust.
• 1/4 cup heavy cream: Creates a rich and creamy sauce that brings all the elements together.

Timing

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
This total prep and cook time is significantly less than many traditional chicken recipes, making it a quick and satisfying meal option for busy weeknights.

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your chicken cooks evenly and achieves that perfect texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a shallow bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This savory mixture is the secret to achieving that irresistible crust.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Take each chicken breast and dredge them in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well coated. This step will create a deliciously crunchy exterior when cooked.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fragrant.

Step 5: Bake

Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through—an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) is ideal.

Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet you used for the chicken, add heavy cream after removing the chicken. Stir to combine, scraping the bits off the bottom—this adds wonderful flavor to your sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, serve it hot and drizzled with your creamy garlic sauce. Enjoy the delightful crunch accompanied by the rich, garlicky notes!

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
Calories: 600 kcal
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 23g
Fat: 43g
Sodium: 500mg
This dish packs a protein punch while being moderately high in calories due to the butter and cream.

Healthier Alternatives for Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

If you’d like to make this dish a bit healthier, consider the following substitutes:

• Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat milk for a lighter sauce.
• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose for added fiber.
• Try skinless chicken thighs for a more flavorful option, though cook time may vary slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad to balance the richness. Consider adding garlic mashed potatoes for a hearty comfort meal or a refreshing lemon orzo salad for a lighter option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Preseasoning the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is seasoned adequately for the best flavor throughout.
2. Overcrowding the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding can result in steaming rather than browning.
3. Skipping the Sauce: Don’t miss out on making the creamy garlic sauce—it’s what elevates the dish!

Storing Tips for Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the chicken’s crispiness, consider reheating in an oven rather than a microwave.

Conclusion

In summary, Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is not just another chicken dish; it’s a culinary experience waiting to be enjoyed. With its crunchy exterior and creamy, garlicky sauce, this recipe is bound to impress at any dinner table. We invite you to try this recipe, adjust to your personal taste, and share your feedback! Explore similar posts for more delightful recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make the chicken less greasy?

Consider using a cooking spray instead of butter for a lighter version, and bake rather than fry for less grease.

Can I use other cheeses?

Absolutely! Cheddar or mozzarella can be used for different flavor profiles, though the texture will change.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prep by coating the chicken a few hours in advance and storing it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, and rice pilaf are wonderful accompaniments to complement this dish.

Embrace the flavor, savor the moments, and enjoy creating this delicious recipe!

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