Garlic Parmesan Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table, then this Garlic Parmesan Chicken is just what you need! This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s packed with savory goodness and comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The rich sauce, loaded with fresh garlic and Parmesan cheese, is sure to impress everyone around the dinner table.

What I love most about this Garlic Parmesan Chicken is how easy it is to prepare—trust me, even on your busiest days, you can whip this up without breaking a sweat. It’s not only delicious but also versatile enough to pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep and 35 minutes of cooking time, you can have a mouthwatering meal in under an hour.
• Family Favorite: Packed with flavors that appeal to both kids and adults, this dish will quickly become a go-to for family dinners.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these wholesome ingredients in your pantry already!
• Make Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping; just store the cooked chicken and sauce separately until you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious Sauce: The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce elevates the chicken and makes every bite irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Sauce

• 1 ¾ cups chicken broth
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon honey
• ½ chicken bouillon cube
• ½ teaspoon EACH: onion powder, oregano, basil, parsley

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt/Pepper
• 2 teaspoons parsley
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• ¾ cup dry white grape juice (see notes)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

For Finishing Touches

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Variations

One of the best parts about this Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless skinless thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier option.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients!
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Combine all the sauce ingredients in a large measuring cup with a spout. Setting aside your sauce now makes it easier when it’s time to cook. Measuring everything beforehand means less stress later on!

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise so they cook evenly. Cover them with saran wrap and gently pound them down to about ½ inch thick. This step helps ensure they cook through while staying tender.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Generously season both sides of your chicken slices with salt, pepper, and parsley. This seasoning creates a delicious flavor base as they cook.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm up olive oil. Sear each piece of chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful golden crust. This browning adds depth of flavor to your dish!

Step 5: Build Your Sauce

Once the chicken is set aside, turn off the heat briefly before adding apple vinegar (or any vinegar you prefer) back into the skillet. Cleaning up those tasty bits left behind—the “fond”—with a silicone spatula enhances your sauce’s flavor profile.

Step 6: Thicken It Up

Add butter and flour into your skillet mixture and stir well. Cooking this mixture for about 1-2 minutes helps eliminate any raw flour taste while creating a velvety texture.

Step 7: Add Sauce Mixture

Gradually pour in your prepared sauce mixture while stirring continuously. Bring it to a boil then lower the heat; let it simmer until thickened—about eight minutes will do!

Step 8: Finish Your Sauce

Reduce heat again and slowly sprinkle in that wonderful freshly grated Parmesan cheese as you stir continuously. The cheese will melt beautifully into that creamy goodness! Finish off with lemon juice which brightens everything up.

Step 9: Combine Everything

Return your seared chicken back into the skillet and spoon that luscious sauce over each piece. Heat through for about five minutes until everything reaches your desired thickness. Garnish with parsley before serving!

And there you have it—a delicious plate of Garlic Parmesan Chicken ready to be enjoyed by family and friends! Serve it warm alongside mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for an unforgettable meal!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken to new heights!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan cheese make a world of difference. They enhance the flavor profile significantly compared to their dried counterparts.

• Don’t Skip the Pounding: Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures that they cook evenly. This helps in achieving that juicy texture while preventing overcooking.

• Control Your Heat: Start with medium-high heat when searing the chicken for a golden crust, but reduce it when making the sauce. This prevents burning the garlic and ensures that flavors meld beautifully.

• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer your sauce thicker, let it simmer longer or add more cheese gradually until you reach your desired thickness. Just remember to keep stirring to prevent lumps!

• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, just reheat it gently before adding the chicken back in.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Presenting your Garlic Parmesan Chicken beautifully can make mealtime feel even more special! Here are some ways to serve this delicious dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
• Lemon Zest: Grating a bit of lemon zest over the top right before serving enhances the citrus notes and brightens up the dish.

Side Dishes

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up that rich Garlic Parmesan sauce. Add garlic or herbs for an extra flavor kick.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or bell peppers add color and nutrients. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting for maximum flavor.

• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans provide a lovely crunch and complement the creamy chicken nicely. A squeeze of lemon juice before serving elevates them even further.

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Garlic Parmesan Chicken will not only taste amazing but also look incredible on any dinner table! Enjoy this comforting meal with family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prepping! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later meals, ensuring you always have a tasty dish ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• To maintain the best flavor and texture, try to consume within this timeframe.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the chicken, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• To reheat the chicken, place it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it covered with a damp paper towel on medium power until heated through.
• Make sure not to overcook during reheating to prevent dryness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Parmesan Chicken!

Can I use other types of cheese for Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a wonderful flavor profile, you can substitute with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even mozzarella for a different twist.

What makes this Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe so special?

This recipe stands out due to its rich sauce made from fresh garlic, savory seasonings, and white grape juice that balances the flavors beautifully. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion!

How can I customize my Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for added nutrition and flavor. You can also adjust the herbs according to your taste preferences.

Is this Garlic Parmesan Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Garlic Parmesan Chicken is fantastic for meal prep as it stores well and retains its flavors when reheated. It’s perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Garlic Parmesan Chicken as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Don’t hesitate to get creative with sides or variations—this recipe is truly versatile. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with amazing aromas!