Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce
A comforting and elegant dish featuring crispy chicken smothered in a creamy garlic sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces small to medium chicken breasts (or 2 large, halved)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup light cream or heavy cream Feel free to substitute heavy cream with a lighter option.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning or oregano
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Using freshly grated Parmesan adds more flavor.
- 1 cup chopped spinach (optional) Swap spinach with another leafy green if desired.
Seasoning
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic to the same pan. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the cream, stirring continuously to combine with the garlic.
- Add the Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is smooth.
- If using, stir in the chopped spinach and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
Combine and Serve
- Return the crispy chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top.
- Allow it to simmer for an additional minute before removing it from the heat.
- Serve hot alongside pasta, roasted vegetables, or fluffy mashed potatoes.
Notes
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the garlic sauté. If you're on a dairy-free diet, try coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.