Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the rich, savory flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese with tender, juicy chicken. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also results in a restaurant-quality meal that can impress family and friends. The combination of simple ingredients creates a complex and mouth-watering flavor profile that makes this dish a standout.

One of the key appeals of Garlic Parmesan Chicken is its versatility. It can be served on a weeknight for a quick and satisfying dinner or dressed up for a special occasion. Pair it with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or pasta to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. This recipe also allows for creativity and adaptation, whether you want to try different types of cheese or add a splash of white wine for extra depth.

Perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs, Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a must-try recipe that promises delicious results every time. Its ease of preparation, coupled with its gourmet taste, makes it a favorite for many households. Enjoy the delightful aromas and flavors of this dish, and watch it become a regular part of your culinary repertoire.

Recipe Description

Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a dish that highlights the harmonious blend of three key ingredients: aromatic garlic, savory Parmesan cheese, and a splash of white wine. These components come together to create a sauce that is both rich and flavorful, enveloping tender chicken breasts in a creamy, cheesy coating.

The dish offers a delightful combination of textures, with the chicken being crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, while the sauce is smooth and velvety. The flavors are robust yet balanced, with the garlic providing a fragrant base, the Parmesan adding a nutty sharpness, and the white wine bringing a subtle acidity that enhances the overall taste.

This recipe’s popularity stems from its ability to deliver gourmet flavors with minimal effort, making it a family favorite. Its crowd-pleasing nature and adaptable ingredients make it a go-to choice for busy weeknights and special occasions alike.

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/4 cup butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients for Variations:

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Red pepper flakes (for a hint of spice)
Grated mozzarella cheese (for added cheesiness)
Lemon juice (for a citrusy kick)
Gravy Master (for color enhancement)

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Chicken:
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This ensures they cook evenly.
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
Grate the Parmesan:
- Use a fine grater to freshly grate the Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts better and has a superior flavor compared to pre-shredded.
Mince the Garlic:
- Peel the garlic cloves and mince them finely. Freshly minced garlic releases more flavor than pre-minced options.
Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine and chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan and lift any browned bits from the bottom.
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
Combine and Finish:
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning sauce over them.
- Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through and meld the flavors.
Garnish and Serve:
- Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:
- Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This helps them cook uniformly.
- Season both sides of the chicken generously with salt and pepper.
Sear the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt 1/4 cup of butter.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour in 1/2 cup of dry white wine and 1/2 cup of chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds rich flavor to the sauce.
Thicken the Sauce:
- Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Adjust the heat as necessary to avoid boiling, which can cause the cream to separate.
Combine and Serve:
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through and allow the flavors to meld.
- For best results, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted vegetables.

Pro Tips

Cheese:

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.

Wine:

Select a dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay. If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with an equal amount of chicken broth for a milder flavor.

Skillet:

Use a large, heavy-bottomed skillet, preferably cast iron or stainless steel, for even heat distribution and to achieve a nice sear on the chicken.

Optional:

To enhance the color of the dish, add a few drops of Gravy Master to the sauce. This will give the chicken a rich, appetizing appearance without altering the flavor significantly.

Serving Suggestions

Ideal Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the rich garlic Parmesan sauce perfectly. Add a bit of butter and garlic to the potatoes for an extra flavor boost.
Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts provide a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting for added flavor.
Pasta: Serve the chicken over a bed of al dente pasta, such as fettuccine or penne, to soak up the delicious sauce. A simple olive oil and garlic pasta works well.

Recommended Garnishes:

Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note to the dish.
Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile.
Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest adds brightness and balances the richness of the sauce.

Presentation Tips:

Serve the chicken on a large platter with the sauce drizzled over the top and around the sides for an elegant presentation.
Arrange the side dishes neatly around the chicken to create a visually appealing plate.
Garnish with fresh herbs and a lemon wedge for a vibrant and inviting look.

Storage Instructions

How to Store Leftovers:

Allow the Garlic Parmesan Chicken to cool to room temperature before storing.
Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating Instructions:

Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to the sauce. Add the chicken and cover the skillet, reheating gently until the chicken is warmed through.
Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway.

Recipe Variations

Alternative Proteins:

Pork Chops: Substitute chicken with bone-in or boneless pork chops. Follow the same preparation and cooking steps, adjusting the cooking time to ensure the pork is cooked through.
Turkey Cutlets: Use turkey cutlets for a leaner option. They cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the sauce well.
Tofu: For a vegetarian variation, use firm tofu. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into thick slices or cubes and follow the same preparation steps.

Ingredient Substitutions:

Chicken Broth Instead of Wine: Replace white wine with an equal amount of chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version. This will maintain the sauce’s depth of flavor.
Greek Yogurt Instead of Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt. This will provide a creamy texture with fewer calories.
Vegan Cheese: Use a vegan Parmesan alternative to make the dish dairy-free.
Vegetable Broth: For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What can I substitute for white wine?

You can substitute white wine with an equal amount of chicken broth or vegetable broth. For a bit of acidity, add a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar.

Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?

While pre-shredded Parmesan can be used, freshly grated Parmesan is preferred as it melts better and has a fresher flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce.

How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature before refrigerating.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What are the best side dishes to serve with this?

Ideal side dishes include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and pasta. These sides complement the rich flavors of the chicken and sauce, creating a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a delightful and versatile dish that promises to become a staple in your meal rotation. The combination of tender chicken, rich garlic, savory Parmesan, and a hint of white wine creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and sophisticated. Its simplicity and quick preparation make it perfect for busy weeknights, while its gourmet taste is sure to impress at dinner parties.

We encourage you to try this delicious recipe and make it your own by experimenting with the suggested variations and sides. Share your experience and any personal twists you’ve added in the comments. Your feedback helps others and allows us to continue refining and sharing wonderful recipes like this one. Happy cooking!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Author: Christine

Print Recipe

Description

Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a savory dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection, smothered in a rich and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. The combination of freshly grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and a touch of white wine creates a sauce that is both luxurious and deeply flavorful, making this dish a favorite for any occasion.

Instructions

Combine the sauce ingredients in a large measuring cup with a spout and set aside. Measure out remaining ingredients before beginning.
Slice the chicken in half lengthwise to create 2-3 thinner slices. Cover with saran wrap and use the textured side of a meat mallet to pound it to ½ inch thick.
Season each side of the chicken with salt, pepper, and parsley.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes per side, until a golden crust has developed. Set aside.
Turn the heat off. Add the wine and then set the heat to medium. Use a silicone spatula to clean the bottom and sides of the skillet, the “fond” will add more flavor to the sauce. Bring to a gentle bubble and reduce for 2 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 2-3 more minutes, until the liquid has reduced by half.
Add the butter and flour and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
Add the sauce mixture (from step 1) in small splashes, stirring continuously. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Simmer and reduce for about 8 minutes.
Reduce heat to low and gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously. Stir in the lemon juice.
Add the chicken back and spoon the sauce on top. Heat through for 5 minutes or until the sauce has reached your desired thickness. Garnish with parsley and serve with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables of choice!

Notes

Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan and minced garlic enhance the dish’s flavor.
Customize the Recipe: Feel free to substitute proteins or use broth instead of wine.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.