Creamy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken Recipe

by

Introduction

Creamy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, creamy garlic sauce. The dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a comforting and flavorful meal that will satisfy your taste buds. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and Mozzarella cheese creates a savory sauce that pairs beautifully with the chicken, making it a dish that will quickly become a family favorite.

Overview of the Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken recipe is a delightful skillet-cooked dish that features chicken breasts coated in a mixture of gluten-free bake mix (or almond flour), Parmesan cheese, and seasonings. The chicken is first browned to perfection, then simmered in a luxurious sauce made from chicken stock, whipping cream, garlic, and cheeses. The final touch is a garnish of fresh cilantro or parsley, adding a burst of freshness to the rich flavors of the dish.

History and Origin

Chicken dishes with creamy sauces have long been a staple in European and American cuisine. The use of garlic, butter, and cheese in cooking can be traced back to various culinary traditions, with each culture adding its unique twist. This particular recipe draws inspiration from classic Italian-American cuisine, where Parmesan and Mozzarella cheeses are often used to create rich, indulgent sauces. The addition of garlic and butter further enhances the dish, making it a beloved choice for those seeking a comforting yet elegant meal.

Ingredients

  • 2 large chicken breasts
  • 4 tbsp Gluten-Free Bake Mix 2 or almond flour
  • 2 tbsp canned Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp crushed garlic
  • 1¼ cups chicken stock
  • 1 cup whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Slice 2 large chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner pieces.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of Gluten-Free Bake Mix 2 (or almond flour), 2 tablespoons of canned Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
  3. Coat each chicken piece evenly with the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the mixture adheres to the chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet.
  3. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it turns golden brown and is nearly cooked through.
  4. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. In a separate large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  2. Add 3 tablespoons of crushed garlic to the skillet.
  3. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

  1. Pour 1¼ cups of chicken stock into the skillet with the garlic and butter, stirring to combine.
  2. Add 1 cup of whipping cream to the skillet, stirring continuously to blend the liquids.
  3. Gradually add 1/4 cup of grated Mozzarella cheese and 2 more tablespoons of Parmesan cheese.
  4. Continue to stir until the cheeses have fully melted and the sauce begins to thicken. This should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

  1. Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet with the sauce.
  2. Spoon the sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
  3. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

  1. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat.
  2. Garnish the dish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, adding a pop of color and freshness.
  3. Serve the Creamy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken immediately, with the sauce generously spooned over each piece.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it over a bed of pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the rich, creamy sauce. Steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, green beans, or asparagus, make excellent accompaniments, providing a healthy contrast to the indulgent chicken dish.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

  • Pasta: Serve the chicken over fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne pasta for a classic Italian-inspired meal.
  • Rice: White rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice are great options to absorb the delicious sauce.
  • Vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or roasted Brussels sprouts for a balanced plate.
  • Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing touch to the rich flavors of the chicken.

Variations of the Recipe

  • Herb Variation: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for a creamy mushroom version of this dish.
  • Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
  • Keto-Friendly: Use heavy cream instead of whipping cream and almond flour for the chicken coating to make this dish more keto-friendly.

Health Benefits Notes

This Creamy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken dish provides a good source of protein from the chicken, while the use of gluten-free bake mix or almond flour makes it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. The fresh garlic used in the recipe offers potential health benefits, including immune-boosting properties and cardiovascular support. While the dish is rich and indulgent, enjoying it in moderation as part of a balanced diet can fit into a healthy lifestyle.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can substitute Mozzarella with other melty cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina. Just be aware that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

Q2: How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken stock if the sauce has thickened too much.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator, then reheat and combine them just before serving. This will ensure the chicken remains tender and the sauce creamy.

Q4: What can I use instead of whipping cream? If you don’t have whipping cream, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version. However, the sauce may be less rich and thick.

Q5: Can I make this recipe dairy-free? To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, the whipping cream with coconut cream, and use a dairy-free cheese option.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken is a delectable dish that combines the richness of garlic, butter, and cheese with tender chicken breasts, creating a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress with its robust flavors and creamy texture. Easy to prepare and versatile in its serving options, this dish will quickly become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy it with your favorite sides and savor every bite!

Leave a Comment