Ultimate Garlic Parmesan Chicken
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken cloaked in a rich, savory blanket of garlic and Parmesan. It's an easy-to-follow method that guarantees perfect results every time, making it a foolproof dish to impress yourself and your loved ones.
Equipment
- Meat Mallet or Rolling Pin
- Plastic wrap or zip-top bag
- Small bowl
- Large skillet (oven-safe preferred)
- Spatula or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Meat thermometer
- Oven
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 6-8 ounces each
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a large zip-top bag. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even ½-inch thickness.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the Parmesan cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet with the garlic Parmesan sauce. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- For a more golden and bubbly top, broil the chicken for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning (optional).
- Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the Garlic Parmesan Chicken with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley (if desired). Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking and tenderness. Simmering the sauce gently allows the flavors to meld together. Fresh garlic is best for the sauce. For an even richer sauce, you can add a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic. Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water to the sauce before reheating can help prevent it from drying out. Variations include Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken, Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken, Mushroom Garlic Parmesan Chicken, and Spinach Garlic Parmesan Chicken.