Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a delicious, home-cooked meal, and this Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce is a delightful example! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a golden, crispy crust, complemented by a rich, creamy garlic sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to make you feel right at home.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), allowing it to reach the perfect temperature for baking.
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This will create a flavorful coating for our chicken.
- Take each chicken breast and dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure it sticks well.
- In a large oven-proof skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
- Carefully add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a delightful golden brown crust.
- Once browned, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken is baking, let’s prepare the garlic cream sauce. In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and just starts to turn golden.
- Pour the heavy cream into the saucepan, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly, and season it with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the chicken is perfectly baked, serve it warm, generously topped with the luscious garlic cream sauce. Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Notes or Tips
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in some olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a couple of hours before preparing. This will not only enhance the taste but also keep the chicken moist and tender.
Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic in the cream sauce according to your taste preferences. If you love garlic, don’t hold back!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe highlights the benefits of oven baking and pan-searing, which allow the chicken to achieve that perfect crispy texture while keeping the inside juicy. The use of heavy cream in the sauce provides a rich consistency that pairs beautifully with the zesty flavors of garlic and Parmesan.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add a richer flavor and are very forgiving, remaining juicy even if slightly overcooked.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the crispiness of the chicken.
Conclusion
This Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and comfort. With its crunchy exterior, tender chicken, and a creamy garlic sauce, this dish brings warmth to any table. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s bound to become a beloved family favorite. Enjoy every delicious bite!