Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce – Easy Dinner Idea

Are you searching for an easy yet mouthwatering dinner idea that will leave everyone at the table raving? Look no further! This Crispy Parmesan Chicken, drizzled in a rich garlic sauce, is a dish that beautifully balances crispy textures with creamy flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a comforting meal that feels fancy without requiring hours in the kitchen. Your family and guests will love the delicious combination of flavors, and you’ll love how quickly it comes together!

In just a matter of minutes, you can transform simple chicken breasts into a culinary delight that’s both satisfying and eye-catching. Serve it alongside your favorite pasta, roasted vegetables, or fluffy mashed potatoes for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy. Get ready to dig into a plate of chicken that’s not only tasty but also a crowd-pleaser in every bite!

This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.

Ingredients

• 4 small to medium chicken breasts (or 2 large halved)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 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)

Here are the ingredients ready for preparation.

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

2. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
   Lower the heat and add the minced garlic to the same pan. Sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Pour in the cream, stirring continuously to combine. Add the Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese, mixing well until the sauce is smooth. If desired, stir in the chopped spinach and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.

3. Combine and Serve:
   Return the crispy chicken to the pan, spooning the creamy sauce generously over the top. Allow it to simmer for 1 minute, then remove from heat. Serve hot with pasta, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

• Ingredient Substitutions: You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a different texture, or Greek yogurt can be used in place of cream for a lighter version.
• Optional Variations: Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms to the sauce for added flavor. For a spicy kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
• Storage or Reheating Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Recipe Information

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty level: Easy