Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Crispy Parmesan Chicken served with a rich, creamy garlic sauce that’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are pan-fried to golden perfection, then smothered in a luxurious Parmesan garlic cream sauce, optionally enhanced with fresh spinach for added flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 small to medium chicken breasts (or 2 large, halved)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup light cream or heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: 1 cup chopped spinach
Instructions
- Season and Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning (added for balanced flavor) until the sauce is smooth and well combined. If using spinach, add it now and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to wilt the spinach and meld the flavors.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the creamy garlic sauce over each piece, and let everything simmer together for an additional 1 minute to allow the chicken to absorb the sauce flavors before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute light cream with heavy cream for a richer sauce or half-and-half for a lighter option.
- For an extra crispy crust, lightly dredge chicken breasts in flour or breadcrumbs before frying.
- Adding fresh spinach not only boosts nutrition but also adds color and texture to the dish.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
