Description
This Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce is a quick and delicious dinner idea featuring tender chicken breasts coated with a crispy golden crust and smothered in a creamy garlic and parmesan sauce. Enhanced with Italian seasoning and optional spinach, this comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights and pairs beautifully with pasta, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 small to medium chicken breasts (or 2 large halved)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup light cream or heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning or oregano
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly on both sides with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Heat Olive Oil: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil, allowing it to warm until shimmering but not smoking.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until the exterior is golden brown and crispy, ensuring the chicken is cooked through.
- Set Chicken Aside: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate while you prepare the sauce.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low, add the minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
- Add Cream: Slowly pour the cream into the pan, stirring continuously to combine with the garlic and loosen any browned bits from the skillet.
- Incorporate Seasoning and Cheese: Stir in the Italian seasoning and grated parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add Spinach (Optional): If using, stir in the chopped spinach and let it simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes until wilted and integrated.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy garlic sauce evenly over the top.
- Simmer Together: Let the chicken and sauce simmer together for 1 minute to meld the flavors, then remove from heat.
- Serve: Serve the crispy parmesan chicken hot with your choice of sides such as pasta, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use light cream for a lighter sauce or heavy cream for a richer texture.
- Spinach adds a nice color and nutrition but can be omitted if preferred.
- Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve a crispy crust.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Pair with your favorite side dishes to complete the meal.
