Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Creamy garlic parmesan chicken is a timeless classic that never fails to impress. This dish boasts tender chicken breasts smothered in a luxurious sauce bursting with the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and herbs. It’s easy to make yet tastes like it came straight from a gourmet kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds), pounded to an even thickness
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
4. If using, pour in the dry white wine and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
5. Stir in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
6. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until smooth and heated through.
7. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
8. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

• Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the sauce during step 6. Allow the sauce to simmer until thickened to your desired consistency.
• Adding Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables into the dish for added flavor and nutrition. Sauteed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes would complement the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Spice it Up: For a kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Keto Version: To make this recipe keto-friendly, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour, and omit the white wine or use a dry white wine with low residual sugar.
• Low Carb Version: Follow the keto version substitutions, and serve the creamy garlic parmesan chicken over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use bone-in chicken breasts instead? Absolutely! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
2. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese? While freshly grated Parmesan cheese will provide the best flavor and melt seamlessly into the sauce, pre-grated Parmesan can be used as a substitute if needed.
3. Is it necessary to use wine in the recipe? No, the dry white wine is optional and can be omitted if preferred. However, it does add a depth of flavor to the sauce.
4. How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover creamy garlic parmesan chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
5. Can I freeze the dish? While you can freeze the chicken in the sauce, the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Creamy garlic parmesan chicken is a versatile and indulgent dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether served for a special dinner party or enjoyed as a cozy weeknight meal, its rich flavors and creamy texture are sure to delight your taste buds. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is a must-try for any home cook looking to impress. Experiment with different variations and enjoy this delicious dish time and time again!