Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and creamy sauce with tender, juicy chicken breasts. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate the comforting taste of a home-cooked meal that’s both easy to prepare and impressive enough to serve guests. The gluten-free breading option ensures that even those with dietary restrictions can enjoy this flavorful recipe.
My first encounter with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken was at a family gathering where my aunt, known for her exceptional cooking skills, prepared this dish. The aroma of garlic and Parmesan filled the kitchen, and the first bite was a revelation. The chicken was perfectly cooked, and the sauce was creamy and full of flavor. Since then, this recipe has become a favorite in my household, a go-to for special occasions and weeknight dinners alike. I’m excited to share this recipe with you, hoping it brings the same joy to your table.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
2 large chicken breasts
For the Breading
4 tbsp Gluten-Free Bake Mix 2, or almond flour (60 mL)
2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, the kind in a canister (30 mL)
1/2 tsp salt (2 mL)
1/4 tsp black pepper (1 mL)
For the Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce
2 tbsp butter (30 mL)
3 tbsp crushed garlic (45 mL)
1 1/4 cups chicken stock (300 mL)
1 cup whipping cream (250 mL)
1/4 cup grated Mozzarella cheese (60 mL)
2 tbsp Parmesan cheese (30 mL)
1/2 tsp dried cilantro, or dried parsley (2 mL)
2 tsp chopped fresh cilantro, or parsley (10 mL)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Slice the Chicken Breasts:
Slice the 2 large chicken breasts in half longitudinally to create four thinner cutlets. This ensures they cook evenly and more quickly.
Prepare the Breading Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine 4 tbsp of Gluten-Free Bake Mix 2 (or almond flour), 2 tbsp of Parmesan cheese, 1/2 tsp of salt, and 1/4 tsp of black pepper. Mix well.
Bread the Chicken:
Using a spoon, coat both sides of each chicken cutlet with the breading mixture. Press the mixture gently onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the Oil:
In a large frying pan, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a nice golden crust.
Cook the Chicken:
Place the breaded chicken cutlets into the hot frying pan. Cook on both sides, turning frequently, until they are golden brown and almost cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the cutlets.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce
Melt the Butter and Cook the Garlic:
In another frying pan, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium-low heat. Add 3 tbsp of crushed garlic and stir-fry until the garlic turns golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Add the Liquids and Cheeses:
Add 1 1/4 cups of chicken stock and 1 cup of whipping cream to the pan. Stir in 1/4 cup of grated Mozzarella cheese and 2 tbsp of Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add Herbs and Simmer:
Stir in 1/2 tsp of dried cilantro (or dried parsley). Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Finish Cooking the Chicken in the Sauce:
Add the almost cooked chicken cutlets to the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and white throughout when cut into.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle 2 tsp of freshly chopped cilantro (or parsley) over the chicken and sauce. Serve immediately while hot.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with thick slices of tofu or large portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Different Cheeses: Try using other cheeses like Gruyere or Fontina for a different flavor profile.
Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can be used instead of cilantro or parsley for a different herbaceous note.
Low-Carb: For a lower-carb option, use heavy cream instead of whipping cream and reduce the amount of chicken stock.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that combines the rich, savory flavors of garlic and Parmesan with the creamy, comforting texture of a buttery sauce. The tender, juicy chicken breasts are perfectly complemented by the sauce, making each bite a delight.
This dish is not only delicious but also relatively simple to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The gluten-free breading ensures that everyone can enjoy this tasty recipe, and the potential for variations allows you to customize it to suit your preferences.
Enjoy the process of making this delicious meal, and savor the wonderful flavors it brings to your table.
