Why Make This Recipe
Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce is a delicious and easy dinner idea that pleases both the family and guests. This dish combines the crunch of golden chicken with a creamy, flavorful sauce, making it a standout meal. It’s simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight, yet fancy enough to impress at a dinner party. Plus, it only takes a short time to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your food and less time in the kitchen.
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce
Ingredients:
- 4 small to medium chicken breasts (or 2 large halved)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup light cream or heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning or oregano
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
Directions:
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- Lower heat and add minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 30 seconds.
- Pour in cream, stirring continuously.
- Add Italian seasoning and parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth.
- Stir in chopped spinach (if using) and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan, spooning sauce over the top.
- Simmer for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
- Serve hot with pasta, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
How to Serve Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce
This dish works well as a main course alongside a variety of sides. You can serve it with pasta tossed in olive oil or a light salad to balance the rich flavors. Roasted vegetables make a great addition as they complement the creamy garlic sauce perfectly. For a hearty meal, mashed potatoes or rice can soak up the sauce beautifully.
How to Store Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce
If you have leftovers, store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.
Tips to Make Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce
- Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken to ensure crispiness.
- Don’t overcook the garlic; sautéing for just 30 seconds brings out the flavor without burning it.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
Variation
You can add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers to the dish for added nutrition and flavor. Also, swapping out the chicken for shrimp or tofu can cater to different dietary preferences while ensuring the meal remains equally delicious.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. Cook times may vary.
2. Can I substitute the cream with something lighter?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less creamy.
3. Is it okay to leave out the spinach?
Absolutely! The spinach is optional and can be omitted if desired. It adds color and nutrition but is not essential to the dish.
Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces small to medium chicken breasts (or 2 large halved)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup light cream or heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning or oregano
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional) Can be omitted
Instructions
Preparation
- Season chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Lower heat and add minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 30 seconds.
- Pour in cream, stirring continuously.
- Add Italian seasoning and parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth.
- Stir in chopped spinach (if using) and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan, spooning sauce over the top.
- Simmer for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
- Serve hot with pasta, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
