Introduction
Welcome to a delicious journey that will transform your weeknight dinners! This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is the perfect blend of crispy, savory, and creamy that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. The tender chicken breasts are coated in a flavorful Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, then drizzled with a luscious garlic cream sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest, ideal for impressing family or just treating yourself to something special.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to a cozy 400°F (200°C).
- In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mix will add a delightful crunch and flavor to your chicken.
- Set flour aside in a separate shallow dish for dredging the chicken.
- In a third dish, beat the eggs until they are smooth and well blended.
- Season each chicken breast generously with salt and pepper, ensuring they are well flavored.
- Start the dredging process by coating each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess flour.
- Next, dip the floured chicken breasts into the beaten eggs, coating them thoroughly.
- Finally, roll each chicken breast in the Parmesan mixture, pressing down firmly to help the crumbs adhere perfectly.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and unsalted butter over medium-high heat until melted and shimmering.
- Add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they reach a golden brown hue.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish, then pop it into the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- While the chicken bakes, reduce the heat in the skillet and add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute until fragrant, filling your kitchen with the warm aroma.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to integrate all the flavors while scraping up any brown bits from the skillet.
- Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly, stirring occasionally.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste — adjust it to your liking!
- Serve the golden-brown chicken topped generously with the creamy garlic sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra crunch, you can add some crushed nuts to the breadcrumb mixture.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can use chicken thighs or even turkey cutlets.
- Pair with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of dredging will elevate your chicken’s texture to new heights. Remember to shake off excess flour and ensure an even coat of egg to help the breadcrumb mixture stick. Sauté the garlic gently to avoid burning; it should be fragrant but not browned. Lastly, letting the sauce simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating that rich, creamy texture everyone loves.
FAQ
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the chicken and the garlic sauce in advance. Just reheat everything gently before serving.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream? For a lighter alternative, you may use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk, which will still provide a rich flavor.
Conclusion
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s a feast for the senses! With its irresistible crispy coating and velvety sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy the delightful moments created by sharing this heartwarming dish. Happy cooking!