Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Introduction
Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of Parmesan cheese and garlic in a creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, showcasing tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a crispy Parmesan crust. The creamy garlic sauce adds an irresistible finish, making this dish worthy of any dinner table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken breasts – 4 pieces
Parmesan cheese (grated) – 1 cup
Panko breadcrumbs – 1 cup
Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
Eggs – 2, beaten
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
For the creamy garlic sauce:
Butter – 4 tablespoons
Garlic (minced) – 5 cloves
Heavy cream – 1 cup
Chicken broth – 1 cup
Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
Parsley (chopped) – for garnish
Prep Time
The preparation time for this dish is approximately 15 minutes. This includes gathering all the ingredients and getting the chicken ready for cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This delicious Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is both a treat for the taste buds and a feast for the eyes. Enjoy this flavorful meal with your favorite sides, and watch as it becomes a new favorite recipe in your household.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, take the chicken breasts and place them between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or a rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1 inch. This ensures even cooking.
Season the Chicken
Once the chicken is pounded, season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Set the chicken aside.
Create the Coating
In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix these ingredients together until well combined.
Dredge the Chicken
In another shallow dish, beat a couple of eggs. Dip each seasoned chicken breast into the egg mixture, making sure it is fully coated. Then, transfer the chicken to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing it down to ensure that the crumbs adhere well to the chicken. Repeat this process for all pieces of chicken.
Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil and butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
Bake the Chicken
Once the chicken is browned, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink inside.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
While the chicken is baking, prepare the creamy garlic sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and salt to taste. Remove from heat.
Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the oven. Plate the chicken breasts and drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the top. Serve immediately.
Notes
Chicken Thickness
Ensure the chicken breasts are of uniform thickness for even cooking. Pounding them helps achieve this.
Cheese Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for the coating, such as Pecorino Romano or a blend of hard cheeses.
Butter Substitute
If you prefer a lighter option, you can use olive oil exclusively instead of the combination of butter and olive oil for frying.
Make Ahead
You can prepare the chicken earlier in the day and store it in the fridge before cooking. Just bring it to room temperature before frying.
Leftovers Storage
Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Cook techniques
Pan-Searing
Pan-searing is a technique that involves cooking the chicken in a hot skillet to achieve a golden-brown crust. This method helps to lock in flavors and moisture, creating a deliciously juicy chicken.
Oven-Baking
After searing, the chicken is placed in the oven. Baking allows for even cooking throughout, ensuring that the chicken is thoroughly cooked without drying out.
Making a Creamy Sauce
To create the creamy garlic sauce, sauté garlic in butter, adding cream and seasonings to enhance its flavor. This technique provides a rich, velvety texture that complements the chicken perfectly.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used; they will offer a slightly different texture and flavor but will still be delicious.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano as alternatives for a similar flavor profile.
How can I make the dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, ensure that any breadcrumbs used are certified gluten-free and check sauces for hidden gluten ingredients.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the creamy garlic sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator; just reheat before serving.
What sides pair well with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
This dish pairs well with fresh vegetables, pasta, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
The Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of parmesan cheese and garlic, resulting in a satisfying and comforting meal. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Its creamy sauce and crispy chicken make it a family favorite that is sure to impress.
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