Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce! This dish is a total showstopper, combining tender chicken breasts with a rich, creamy garlic sauce that just envelops everything in warmth and flavor. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma filled my kitchen and had everyone rushing to the table before I could even set the plates! The creamy texture of the sauce, made with melted Parmesan, is just heavenly. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel cozy and satisfied, perfect for those busy evenings when you need something delicious without too much fuss. Trust me, you’re going to want to try this one! It’s a quick, comforting meal that’s sure to impress your family or guests.
Ingredients List
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Prepare Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce
Alright, let’s dive into making this incredible Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce! I promise, it’s easier than it sounds, and you’ll have it on the table in no time. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be golden!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is super important because we want that oven nice and hot when we’re ready to bake the chicken!
- While the oven is heating up, season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Don’t be shy—get in there and really coat them well with the spices!
- Now, heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully golden brown. This gives them that lovely crust!
- When the chicken is done searing, remove it from the skillet and set it aside for now. We’ll come back to it shortly.
- In that same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn—garlic can go from delicious to bitter in a flash!
- Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic begins!
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and keep mixing until it’s melted and the sauce is nice and smooth. Oh, that smell! It’s heavenly!
- Now, return the chicken to the skillet, making sure each piece is well-coated in that luscious sauce.
- Pop the skillet into your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. This will ensure the chicken is cooked through and stays juicy!
- Once it’s out of the oven, garnish with fresh parsley for that beautiful touch before serving.
And there you have it! You’ve just made Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce. I can’t wait for you to taste it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just about 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of heavy cream and melted Parmesan creates a dreamy sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Tender Chicken: Searing the chicken first keeps it juicy and full of flavor. You won’t be left with dry chicken here, I promise!
- Impressive Presentation: With its golden-brown chicken and vibrant green parsley garnish, this dish looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for serving guests.
- Versatile Pairing: It pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even a fresh salad, giving you plenty of options for sides that complement the creamy sauce.
- Family-Friendly: Most everyone loves a good chicken dish with a creamy sauce, making it a surefire hit with both kids and adults alike!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to whip up this delicious Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce, here are some of my favorite tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!
- Perfectly Searing the Chicken: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. It should sizzle when the meat hits the pan! This helps form that beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside juicy.
- Watch the Garlic: Garlic can be tricky! Sauté it just until fragrant, about a minute, and keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. Burnt garlic can ruin the flavor of your sauce—trust me, I’ve learned the hard way!
- Consistency is Key: If your sauce seems too thick after adding the Parmesan, don’t hesitate to add a splash of chicken broth or extra cream to reach your desired consistency. You want it creamy, but not so thick that it clings to the chicken like glue!
- Adjusting Flavors: Feel free to tweak the seasonings to your taste! If you love a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Or, for more depth, a splash of white wine in the sauce can elevate the flavor even further.
- Rest Your Chicken: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a pro at making this dish in no time! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Alright, so let’s chat about the nutritional side of this delicious Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce! Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving (that’s one chicken breast with sauce):
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Sugar: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 120mg
This dish is a fantastic option if you’re looking for something that’s both satisfying and packed with protein! Just keep in mind that the creamy sauce does bring in some richness, so it’s all about balance—perhaps pair it with a fresh salad or some steamed veggies to lighten things up. Enjoy your meal, knowing it’s delicious and hearty!
FAQ Section
Common Questions About Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work beautifully in this recipe. They’re often more tender and juicy, so if that’s your preference, go for it!
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt. Just keep in mind that it might not be as rich, but still delicious!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently in a skillet or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze it! Make sure to let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for about 2-3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve with this dish?
You can’t go wrong with pasta, rice, or even a fresh salad! Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans also make great sides to balance out the richness of the creamy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce, the right sides can really elevate the meal! I love to pair this creamy dish with a variety of options that complement its rich flavors. Here are some of my go-to suggestions:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a perfect match! They soak up that delicious sauce beautifully and create a comforting plate.
- Steamed Broccoli: A bright, vibrant green vegetable like steamed broccoli adds a nice crunch and freshness to balance out the richness of the chicken.
- Simple Pasta: Toss some cooked spaghetti or fettuccine with olive oil and garlic for a light side that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad brings in that classic Italian flair with crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top—just like the chicken!
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini not only adds color to your plate but also brings a lovely caramelized sweetness that complements the savory chicken.
- Garlic Bread: You can never go wrong with buttery garlic bread! It’s perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate—trust me, you won’t want to waste a drop!
Mix and match these sides based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for. The goal is to create a meal that feels balanced, comforting, and oh-so-delicious! Enjoy your feast!
Print
Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce: 7 Cozy Delights
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking and Searing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce is a flavorful and creamy dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich garlic sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Serve with pasta or vegetables.
- Adjust the garlic to your taste.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Parmesan Chicken, Garlic Cream Sauce, Italian Chicken Recipe