This Creamy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken recipe is the epitome of indulgent comfort food. With its golden-brown, crispy chicken breasts and a velvety, garlic-infused Parmesan sauce, this dish is sure to impress. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it combines rich flavors and simple ingredients to create a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless breasts for easy preparation and a lean protein option.
- 4 tbsp Gluten-Free Bake Mix 2 or almond flour: Provides a crispy, gluten-free coating. Almond flour is a great low-carb option if preferred.
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese: Use the kind in a canister for a more consistent, finely grated texture.
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and a base for the sauce.
- 3 tbsp crushed garlic: Freshly crushed garlic gives the best flavor and aroma.
- 1 1/4 cups chicken stock: Enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce.
- 1 cup whipping cream: Provides a creamy, luxurious texture.
- 1/4 cup grated Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a gooey texture to the sauce.
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor.
- 1/2 tsp dried cilantro or dried parsley: Adds a hint of herbal flavor.
- 2 tsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley: For garnish and a touch of freshness.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and reaches the perfect temperature.
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This step ensures the chicken cooks uniformly and helps the coating adhere better.
- In a shallow dish, combine the Gluten-Free Bake Mix 2 or almond flour with the Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the mixture, coating both sides evenly. Press down slightly to ensure the coating sticks well.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil or butter.
- Once hot, add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. This step adds texture and flavor to the chicken.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baking ensures the chicken is cooked through while keeping it moist.
- Make the Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce:
- While the chicken bakes, start preparing the sauce. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. The leftover bits from cooking the chicken will add flavor to the sauce.
- Add the crushed garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
- Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a simmer. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, as they add depth to the sauce’s flavor.
- Stir in the whipping cream and continue to simmer gently. The cream will thicken the sauce and create a rich, creamy consistency.
- Add the grated Mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
- Season the sauce with dried cilantro or parsley. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Finish and Serve:
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven.
- Pour the creamy garlic butter Parmesan sauce over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and added flavor.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Consider serving the chicken with steamed or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. A blend of cheddar and Parmesan could also work well.
Creamy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken is a delectable dish that combines crispy chicken with a rich, creamy sauce. The simplicity of the ingredients ensures that this meal is both easy to make and incredibly flavorful. Serve it with your favorite side dishes for a complete and satisfying dinner. Enjoy the luxurious textures and savory flavors of this irresistible dish!
