Introduction
Welcome to a delicious venture into the world of crispy Parmesan chicken! This dish combines tender chicken breasts coated in a golden brown, crunchy crust with a rich and creamy garlic sauce that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Perfectly seasoned and satisfying, this meal is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy yet elegant dish!
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced half-inch thick
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it nice and hot for cooking that chicken to perfection.
- In a shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is what will give your chicken that irresistible crunch.
- In another shallow dish, place the flour. In a third dish, add the beaten eggs, ready for dipping.
- Dredge each chicken breast slice in the flour, ensuring it is lightly coated. Then dip it in the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off before coating it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to help the crumbs adhere beautifully.
- Heat half of the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted and bubbling, add a few pieces of chicken to the skillet, cooking until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet.
- Repeat the process with the remaining chicken slices, adding more butter to the skillet as needed, until all are beautifully golden.
- Once all the chicken is cooked, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and juicy.
- While the chicken bakes, return to the skillet with the remaining butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, letting those lovely aromas fill your kitchen.
- Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. You’ll love the rich, creamy texture it adds!
- Remove the chicken from the oven and drizzle the garlic sauce generously over each piece. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before serving. This brightens the dish and balances the richness of the sauce. Feel free to substitute the parsley with other fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a different twist!
Cooking Techniques
Achieving that golden, crispy crust requires proper dredging and frying techniques. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken firmly to ensure they stick well during cooking. Additionally, cooking in batches prevents overcrowding the skillet, which helps maintain the heat and allows for even cooking.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a slightly juicier result due to their higher fat content, making them a delicious alternative.
What can I serve with this dish?
This crispy Parmesan chicken pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of pasta to soak up the creamy garlic sauce.
Conclusion
There you have it—a delightful recipe for crispy Parmesan chicken bathed in a luscious garlic sauce. This dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table, offering rich flavors and satisfying textures with every bite. So gather your loved ones, serve this up, and enjoy the warm smiles around your kitchen as everyone indulges in this home-cooked delight!