Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a dish that embodies the rich flavors of Italian cuisine, combining the savory taste of garlic with the creamy richness of parmesan cheese. This recipe is not only a delight for the palate but also a testament to the simplicity and elegance of traditional Italian cooking. The dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, as it can be prepared in under 30 minutes and is sure to impress with its aromatic flavors and velvety sauce. The cultural significance of this dish lies in its ability to bring people together, much like many Italian meals, which are often centered around family and community.

Ingredients

• (cut into 6 equally sized breasts)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh black pepper
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 5 cloves minced garlic
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half)
• 1/2 cup firmly packed fresh grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2-3 chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
3. Make the Roux: Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the skillet. Add the flour and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Create the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking until the flour is dissolved. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Combine and Simmer: Return the chicken to the pan along with any accumulated juices. Simmer until the sauce thickens and the chicken is heated through.
6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Top Tips

• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan cheese provides a richer flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.
• Avoid Overheating: Reduce heat before adding parmesan to prevent the cheese from splitting.
• Thicken the Sauce: Simmer the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the chicken in batches to ensure a nice golden crust.
• Check Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic for added depth of flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Sprinkle lemon zest over the chicken for a bright, citrusy note.
• Breaded Chicken: Coat the chicken with breadcrumbs before searing for a crispy exterior.
• Pesto Sauce: Mix pesto into the cream sauce for a vibrant green flavor.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers for a balanced meal.

Nutritional Guide

Additional nutritional notes: This dish is rich in protein from the chicken and calcium from the parmesan cheese. While it is high in fat due to the heavy cream and butter, it can be balanced by serving with vegetables or whole grains. Consider using lighter cream alternatives for a healthier version.