Introduction: Craving a rich, flavorful meal that’s both comforting and indulgent? This Creamy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken recipe is a perfect choice. With tender chicken cutlets coated in a gluten-free breading, then smothered in a luscious garlic butter parmesan sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of garlic, butter, parmesan, and cream creates a sauce that’s creamy, savory, and utterly irresistible. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is quick to prepare and delivers restaurant-quality taste in the comfort of your home.
Overview of the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken is a delectable dish that features chicken breasts sliced into cutlets, breaded with a gluten-free mixture of almond flour and parmesan cheese, and cooked to golden perfection. The chicken is then simmered in a rich sauce made from garlic, butter, chicken stock, whipping cream, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, this dish is both gluten-free and packed with flavor.
History and Origin: This dish draws inspiration from classic Italian cooking, where parmesan, garlic, and butter are staple ingredients. The use of cream in sauces is a common practice in Italian-American cuisine, often seen in dishes like Alfredo. While this specific combination may not have a storied history, it represents a fusion of traditional flavors in a modern, gluten-free context. The use of almond flour as a breading alternative makes it accessible to those with dietary restrictions without compromising on taste.
Ingredients:
For the Breading:
- 4 tbsp Gluten-Free Bake Mix 2 or almond flour (60 mL)
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese (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:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Begin by slicing the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. This not only helps the chicken cook more quickly but also ensures even cooking.
- In a small bowl, combine the Gluten-Free Bake Mix 2 or almond flour, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the breading mixture.
- Coat both sides of the chicken cutlets with the breading mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well to the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Olive oil adds a subtle flavor while helping to achieve a golden-brown crust.
- Add the breaded chicken cutlets to the pan. Cook the chicken on both sides, turning frequently to ensure even browning. The chicken should be nearly cooked through but not fully cooked at this stage.
- Once the chicken is golden brown, remove it from the pan and set it aside. The chicken will finish cooking in the sauce later.
- Make the Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce:
- In a separate frying pan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Butter forms the base of this rich and flavorful sauce.
- Add the crushed garlic to the melted butter. Sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant and starts to turn golden, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir in the chicken stock and whipping cream, followed by the grated Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The cheeses will melt into the sauce, creating a creamy, velvety texture.
- Add the dried cilantro or parsley, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Allow the sauce to cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is well combined.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked chicken cutlets to the pan with the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry.
- Garnish the dish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
- Serve the Creamy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken hot, straight from the pan.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions: This Creamy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes:
- Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans to add a healthy balance to the richness of the dish.
- Grains: Pair with a serving of fluffy rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Pasta: This dish also goes well with a side of gluten-free pasta, creating a comforting, complete meal.
Variations of the Recipe:
- Keto-Friendly: For a keto-friendly version, ensure that the chicken stock and all ingredients used are low in carbs.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Variation: Try using different cheeses like Gouda or Cheddar for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
Health Benefits Notes: This dish offers several health benefits:
- High in Protein: The chicken provides a good source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Gluten-Free: The use of almond flour or a gluten-free bake mix makes this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Rich in Calcium: The Parmesan and Mozzarella cheeses add a significant amount of calcium, important for bone health.
FAQs:
- Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?
- Yes, if you do not need a gluten-free option, you can substitute regular all-purpose flour for the almond flour.
- Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
- The sauce is best prepared fresh, but you can make it ahead and reheat gently on the stove. Add a splash of chicken stock if the sauce thickens too much.
- Can I use other herbs besides cilantro or parsley?
- Yes, you can substitute with fresh basil, thyme, or oregano for a different flavor profile.
- What can I do with leftovers?
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Can I make this dairy-free?
- For a dairy-free version, you can use coconut cream instead of whipping cream and dairy-free cheese substitutes.
Conclusion: Creamy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken is a versatile, gluten-free dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and parmesan with tender chicken cutlets. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers on both taste and ease of preparation. Serve it with your favorite sides for a comforting, satisfying meal that everyone will love.