Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe : Easy & Flavorful Dinner Idea
As the sun sets, the kitchen fills with the smell of garlic and Parmesan. It’s time for a comforting and delicious meal. The Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe is a classic that will soon be your family’s favorite. It’s quick to make, with juicy chicken, creamy garlic sauce, and a crispy Parmesan crust.
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe is special because of its perfect mix of flavors. The chicken is seared to perfection, making it crispy on the outside and juicy inside. The garlic Parmesan sauce adds a rich, creamy touch that takes the dish to the next level. It’s perfect for a family dinner or when you’re hosting guests.
Table of Contents
Overview of This Classic Italian-American Dish
Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a favorite in many homes and restaurants. It mixes garlic, Parmesan cheese, and chicken for a delicious meal. This dish is loved for its rich flavors and satisfying taste.
Origins and Cultural Significance
Even though it didn’t start in Italy, Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a big hit in Italian-American cuisine. Chicken parmigiana, its inspiration, is a top choice in the New York area. It’s also popular in Australia, where it’s known as “parma” or “parmi” and enjoyed in pubs.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe is special because of its creamy sauce and easy making. It’s often served with pasta or garlic-sautéed broccoli rabe. This makes it a full and enjoyable meal.
Key Flavor Components
The dish’s flavors come from fresh garlic, Parmesan cheese, grape juice, and herbs. The sauce is made by cooking garlic in olive oil and simmering the mix. It’s seasoned to perfection for a rich taste.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken
To make the ultimate garlic parmesan chicken, you need the right ingredients. The boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the main attraction. But it’s the mix of flavors that makes this dish special.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is a must. Use real Parmesan, like Belgioioso, for the best taste. Garlic is key, with 4 cloves minced just right.
The sauce is made with heavy cream, grape juice, and chicken broth. These ingredients make the sauce creamy. A bit of butter and flour thicken it. And a squeeze of lemon juice adds a nice touch.
Don’t forget the herbs and spices. You’ll need oregano, basil, parsley, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard powder. They add depth and make every bite enjoyable.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a garlic parmesan chicken dish that will wow everyone.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2 large |
| Parmesan cheese, freshly grated | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Heavy cream | 1/4 cup |
| grape juice | 3/4 cup |
| Chicken broth | 1 3/4 cups |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| Flour | 3 tablespoons |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Oregano | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Basil | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Parsley | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Soy sauce | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Honey | 1 teaspoon |
| Chicken bouillon cube | 1/2 cube |
“The key to a truly exceptional garlic parmesan chicken dish lies in the quality and balance of the ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating a harmonious flavor profile that will delight your taste buds.”
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the tasty Garlic Parmesan Chicken, you’ll need some key cooking utensils and kitchen gadgets. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:
Essential Cookware
- A wide 12-inch skillet or sauté pan for proper sauce reduction and cooking the chicken
- Sturdy cooking tongs to handle the chicken pieces with ease
- A Microplane zester for finely grating the Parmesan cheese
- An instant-read meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection
- A splatter guard to minimize any mess during the cooking process
Measuring and Prep Tools
Getting the right measurements is crucial for the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken. You’ll need:
- Measuring cups and spoons for precisely portioning out the ingredients
- A mixing bowl for preparing the breading mixture
- A shallow dish or plate for dredging the chicken
Specialty Items
While not essential, some specialty items can elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken:
- A food processor or blender for creating a smooth, creamy Parmesan sauce
- A kitchen mallet or meat tenderizer to pound the chicken breasts for even cooking
- A baking sheet or wire rack for keeping the cooked chicken warm and crisp
With the right cooking utensils and kitchen gadgets, you’re ready to make a delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken dish.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Learn how to make the perfect baked chicken dishes with this easy guide. It’s great for both seasoned cooks and beginners. Follow these steps to make Garlic Parmesan Chicken that will wow your guests.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the chicken breasts lengthwise to create thin, even cutlets. Season them generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a large skillet, heat a combination of olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken cutlets until they’re golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer the seared chicken to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Sprinkle in all-purpose flour and whisk continuously to create a roux.
- Slowly pour in grape juice or chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency, about 2-3 minutes.
- Return the seared chicken cutlets to the skillet and spoon the creamy Parmesan sauce over the top, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the Garlic Parmesan Chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and finish by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the chicken. Serve hot and enjoy!
These simple steps will help you make a delicious baked chicken dishes dish. It’s full of garlic, Parmesan, and tender chicken. Impress your guests with your cooking techniques skills.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4 (about 1.5 lbs) |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tbsp |
| chicken broth | 1/2 cup |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
Remember, the key to tender baked chicken dishes is in the prep. Follow these steps closely. You’ll get a tasty Garlic Parmesan Chicken that will be a hit with your family. Enjoy your cooking techniques masterpiece!
Making the Signature Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Take your Garlic Parmesan Chicken to the next level with a rich, creamy sauce. This sauce is the dish’s highlight, mixing garlic, Parmesan, and cream for a perfect blend.
Creating the Base
Begin by mixing the sauce’s base ingredients: chicken broth, heavy cream, Soy sauce, mustard powder, and honey. These form a strong base for the sauce’s flavors.
Perfecting the Consistency
To get the right consistency, slowly add the liquid to a butter and flour roux. This makes the sauce smooth and coats everything well. Simmer it, stirring often, until it’s just right.
Adding Final Touches
Finally, add Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. The Parmesan adds a rich taste, while the lemon adds a tangy touch. This creates a sauce that’s both creamy and bright.
Follow these steps to make a Garlic Parmesan Sauce that will make your Chicken dish amazing. Impress your loved ones with this homemade sauce.
Tips for Perfectly Tender Chicken
Getting chicken to be tender and juicy is a big goal for home cooks. Luckily, there are a few easy ways to make sure your chicken is always moist and tasty.
One important trick is to pound the chicken breasts to 1/2 inch thickness. This makes sure they cook evenly. Use a meat mallet or a heavy pan to gently pound them.
It’s also crucial to use an instant-read thermometer to check if the chicken is done. Chicken is ready when it hits 160°F. It will then reach the perfect 165°F as it rests.
Don’t let the chicken overcook, as this can make it tough. Take it out of the heat as soon as it reaches 160°F.
Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting into it. This helps the juices spread, keeping it moist. Pour the garlic Parmesan sauce over the chicken just before serving to add extra moisture.
By using these chicken cooking techniques, you’ll get moist chicken that’s full of flavor in every bite.
Beverage Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Finding the right beverages and sides to complement your Garlic Parmesan Chicken is key to a delightful meal. Whether you enjoy refreshing hearty sides, there are many options to enhance this dish.
Best Beverage Choices
For a classic pairing, try sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime, which provides a refreshing acidity that complements the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Other excellent options include:
Apple cider or pomegranate juice, which add a subtle sweetness to the overall meal.
Freshly squeezed lemonade for a bright, tangy counterbalance to the richness of the dish.
Mint tea or herbal teas for a warm and aromatic accompaniment.
Side Dish Recommendations
To create a complete and satisfying meal, pair your Garlic Parmesan Chicken with sides that enhance its flavors. Consider:
Buttery herb rice or couscous: Light grains that soak up the sauce beautifully.
Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy and flavorful, they pair perfectly with the rich Parmesan sauce.
Roasted asparagus or green beans: Add a fresh, crisp texture to balance the dish.
Steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach: Nutritious and mild, these greens complement the garlic and Parmesan without overpowering the dish.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Enjoy the delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken even days later. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 3 months and the sauce for up to 4 months.
When reheating, be gentle to avoid sauce separation. Warm the dish slowly, adding cream or broth if needed. Ensure the chicken reaches 165°F before serving. This keeps the dish hot and the flavors together.
Try different reheating methods to find your favorite. You can use the oven, air fryer, or microwave. Oven reheating at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, covered, then 2-3 minutes uncovered, can crisp the topping. Or, the air fryer at 380°F for 4-6 minutes or the microwave at 50% power for 2-3 minutes work well too.