Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Chicken
When it comes to quick weeknight dinners, Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a game-changer that combines ease and elegance. This dish not only delights your taste buds but also brings a touch of comfort to any table. Have you ever craved something rich and savory while keeping the prep time minimal? This garlic-infused chicken, smothered in a creamy parmesan sauce, meets that craving perfectly.
Why Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a Game-Changer
This recipe shines because of its versatility and satisfying flavors. The blend of garlic, parmesan, and a hint of smoky paprika gives the chicken an irresistible personality. Additionally, its creamy sauce, enriched with fresh garlic and sautéed onions, elevates even the simplest of occasions—from cozy nights at home to casual dinner parties.
What’s more, Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the kind of meal that allows for customization. Add in some frozen peas or swap in turkey bacon for an extra twist, and you’ve got a dish that can adapt to whatever you have on hand. If you're unsure where to start, don't worry! This recipe is straightforward, perfect for both kitchen novices and seasoned chefs alike. Ready to dive in? Let’s gather our ingredients and get started!
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Creating the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken starts with gathering the right ingredients. Below is a concise list to help you get organized for this delicious dish.
Chicken and Coating
- Chicken Breasts: 2 large (around 200g/7oz each), ensuring you have juicy, tender meat as your base.
- Cornflour: 2 tablespoon (or cornstarch in the US) for a crispy coating.
- Seasonings:
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika to add a hint of warmth and color.
- Oil: 3 tablespoon for frying, choosing something like olive or canola for better flavor.
Flavorful Sauce
- Onion: 1 small, peeled and finely chopped to build a savory base.
- Garlic: 3 large cloves, peeled and minced for that fragrant kick.
- Liquid Gold:
- 180 ml (¾ cup) strong chicken stock (or water plus 2 stock cubes)
- 180 ml (¾ cup) double (heavy) cream for ultimate creaminess.
To Garnish
- A small bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped for a pop of color.
- Freshly grated parmesan for that authentic finish.
- Additional black pepper to taste, enhancing those savory flavors.
With these ingredients ready, you are one step closer to a delectable dinner that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Getting ready to whip up a delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken dish? You're in for a treat! This recipe is not only flavorful but also straightforward. Follow these easy steps to create a meal that will impress your family or friends.
Prepare the chicken breasts
Start by preparing the star of the show: the chicken breasts. Take your two large chicken breasts and slice them in half horizontally. This way, you'll end up with four thinner chicken breast steaks that cook evenly and soak up the flavor beautifully. Pro tip: flattening them slightly with a meat mallet can help them cook more uniformly.
Coat the chicken with spices
Now, let’s give those chicken breasts some flavor! In a small mixing bowl, combine your cornflour (or cornstarch, if you're in the US), ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of paprika. This simple spice mix adds layers of flavor. Sprinkle the mixture generously over both sides of each chicken breast. Make sure to coat them well for that delicious burst of taste in every bite.
Sauté the chicken to perfection
Heat about 3 tablespoons of oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering (but not smoking), add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes, flipping occasionally. The goal here is a beautiful golden-brown color and fully cooked chicken—internal temperatures should reach 165°F (75°C). Once done, move the chicken to one side of the pan. You can pile them up to keep them warm while you prepare the next step.
Sauté onions and garlic
In the space created in the pan, toss in a finely chopped small onion. If your pan looks a bit dry, don't hesitate to add a splash of oil. Sauté the onions for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Next, add 3 minced garlic cloves, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir this flavorful mix for about a minute, letting that wonderful garlic aroma fill your kitchen. This is the kind of smell that has everyone running to the dinner table!
Make the creamy garlic sauce
Now comes the best part—the creamy garlic sauce that brings this Garlic Parmesan Chicken together! First, pour in ¾ cup of strong chicken stock (you can use water and chicken stock cubes if that's what you have). Then add in ¾ cup of double (heavy) cream, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. The flavors will meld beautifully, creating a luxurious sauce to drench your chicken.
For a finishing touch, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, some grated parmesan, and black pepper before serving. Enjoy the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal that feels special!
With just a bit of time and effort, you've created a delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Variations of Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Turkey Bacon
Elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken by adding crispy turkey bacon for an extra layer of flavor and crunch. Simply cook the turkey bacon until crispy, then crumble it over your dish just before serving. This delicious touch contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce and tender chicken, making meal prep feel gourmet. If you’re a bacon lover, why not give this a try? You’ll love the smoky flavor it adds!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Added Vegetables
For a healthier twist, consider incorporating seasonal vegetables into your Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Think vibrant bell peppers, spinach, or even asparagus. Sauté the vegetables alongside the onion for a delicious medley that not only enhances the nutritional profile but also adds color to your plate. This variation is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a wholesome dish that feels satisfying and fresh. Check out EatingWell for more ideas on incorporating veggies into your meals!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken
When preparing your Garlic Parmesan Chicken, here are some handy tips to enhance your cooking experience:
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Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure your chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking. A meat mallet works wonders!
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Flavor Boosts: For added depth, consider infusing your oil with herbs like thyme or rosemary before sautéing.
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Creamy Sauce Perfection: If your sauce seems too thick after cooking, stir in a splash of chicken stock or cream to achieve desired consistency.
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Leftover Ideas: Turn leftovers into a delicious wrap or salad. Just shred the chicken and mix with fresh greens!
Feel free to get creative and experiment, making this dish your own!
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Pair your Garlic Parmesan Chicken with sides that complement its rich and savory flavors. Here are some delicious ideas:
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture of mashed potatoes perfectly balances the chicken’s sauce. For a twist, try adding roasted garlic for extra flavor.
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Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: These greens add a vibrant color and a crunchy contrast to the dish, making your plate visually appealing and nutritious.
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Garlic Bread: What better way to soak up that creamy sauce than with some freshly baked garlic bread? It’s a must-try!
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A Simple Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy lemon vinaigrette refreshes the palate and adds a healthy element to your meal.
Experiment with different combinations that suit your taste—after all, cooking is all about creativity!
Time Breakdown for Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Preparation time
Getting your kitchen ready for this delightful Garlic Parmesan Chicken won’t take long at all! Expect about 10 minutes to gather your ingredients, season the chicken, and prep your workspace.
Cooking time
The cooking itself is swift and efficient. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes frying the chicken to golden perfection and creating that luscious garlic cream sauce that ties everything together.
Total time
Ready for a scrumptious meal? In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious plate of Garlic Parmesan Chicken ready to impress yourself and anyone lucky enough to share the meal with you!
Looking for tips on how to enhance this recipe? Check out these garlic cooking tips for delicious flavor twists!
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Parmesan Chicken
When it comes to enjoying a delicious meal like Garlic Parmesan Chicken, knowing the nutritional profile can help you make conscious choices. Here's a quick breakdown:
- Calories: Approximately 450kcal per serving. A satisfying meal that won't derail your daily intake.
- Protein: Around 28g, making it a fantastic source for muscle repair and growth—perfect for post-workout recovery.
- Sodium: Approximately 1246mg, so keep an eye on your sodium intake if you're watching your salt levels.
With this information, you can savor every bite of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken while balancing your nutritional needs! If you're interested in more details about healthier cooking methods and ingredient substitutions, check out this article on healthy cooking tips.
FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! While Garlic Parmesan Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it in advance. After cooking, allow the dish to cool and transfer it to an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to two days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a skillet over low to medium heat, stirring frequently. For a bit of extra creaminess, feel free to add a splash of chicken stock or cream while reheating.
How do I store leftovers?
To keep your Garlic Parmesan Chicken delicious for the next day, place any leftovers in an airtight container once they cool down. Properly stored, your chicken can stay in the fridge for about two days. Just make sure it’s sealed well to prevent it from drying out!
Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to let the leftovers cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. When you're ready to enjoy it again, defrost the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and heat it up following the same method mentioned earlier. Enjoy your delicious meal without any hassle!
Conclusion on Garlic Parmesan Chicken
In summary, Garlic Parmesan Chicken offers a delicious blend of flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity allows for easy customization, so feel free to try various ingredient swaps. Whether enjoyed freshly made or saved for later, this dish is sure to be a family favorite.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Equipment
- frying pan
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 2 large chicken breasts around 200g/7oz each
- 2 tablespoon cornflour (cornstarch in US)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 3 tablespoon oil
Sauce
- 1 small onion peeled and chopped finely
- 3 large cloves garlic peeled and minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 180 ml strong chicken stock water plus 2 stock cubes is fine
- 180 ml double (heavy) cream
To Serve
- 1 small bunch fresh parsley finely chopped
- black pepper
- grated parmesan
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally, so you have 4 thin chicken breast steaks.
- Mix together the cornflour, salt, pepper, garlic powder and paprika. Sprinkle over both sides of the chicken breasts to coat.
- Add the oil to a large frying pan and heat over medium heat.
- When the oil is hot, add the chicken and fry for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked throughout.
- Move the chicken to one side of the pan and add the onion to the space left in the pan. If the pan is looking dry, you can add a little splash of oil.
- Cook the onion for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until just starting to soften.
- Add the garlic, salt, and pepper to the onion and cook for 1 minute, stirring often.
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