Irresistibly Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet

Introduction

Hello, fellow food lovers! I’m Jenny, and today, I’m thrilled to share one of my absolute favorite recipes: the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet. This dish is not only irresistibly cheesy but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights. As a mom who loves cooking with my son, I cherish recipes that turn meal prep into quality bonding time.

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet brings together tender chicken, savory garlic, and rich parmesan cheese in a way that will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to showcase seasonal ingredients that inspire me as I cook here in New Jersey.

Ingredients

To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Optional: 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

These ingredients are simple and accessible, ensuring that even novice cooks can confidently dive into this culinary adventure!

Timing

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

It’s a fantastic option for a quick dinner, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones rather than slaving away in the kitchen.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet:

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if you’re using it. This adds a lovely flavor right from the get-go!

2. Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!

4. Make the Sauce

Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Then, add the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

5. Combine and Cook

Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Let it simmer in the sauce for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.

6. Garnish and Serve

Finally, garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This dish goes beautifully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fat: 33g
• Saturated Fat: 18g

It’s a hearty meal that satisfies without overwhelming your daily nutritional goals.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten this dish, consider these substitutions:

• Use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor.
• Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or light cream for a lower-fat option.
• Try using whole wheat pasta as a side for added fiber.

These alternatives can help you enjoy the same delicious flavors while aligning with your health goals.

Serving Suggestions

Wondering what to serve with your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet? Here are some ideas:

• Garlic bread for that extra cheesy goodness
• Steamed broccoli or asparagus for a fresh touch
• Rice pilaf or mashed potatoes to soak up that creamy sauce

These sides will complement the dish perfectly, making for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common pitfalls to keep in mind while preparing this dish:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. It’s better to cook in batches.
• Watch the garlic closely to prevent it from burning, which can give the dish a bitter taste.
• Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking for an internal temperature of 165°F.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll ensure your meal turns out perfectly every time!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare, but it can happen!), here’s how to store them:

• Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce creamy.

Proper storage will help maintain the flavor and texture of your delicious dish!

Conclusion

In summary, the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet is a delightful dish that embodies comfort, family, and flavor. It’s easy to prepare, packed with cheesy goodness, and the perfect way to bring everyone together around the dinner table. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as my family does!

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?

You can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it in advance and reheat it for a quick meal when needed.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me on this culinary journey! I encourage you to try the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet and make it your own. Remember, cooking should be fun and enjoyable. With simple recipes and a little creativity, you can create heartfelt meals that bring joy to your family. Happy cooking!

Print