Description
Tender and juicy chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and smothered in a rich, flavorful garlic parmesan sauce. A quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 4–6 breasts
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, for a touch of heat
Instructions
- Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
- In a large bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the pounded chicken breasts to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
- In a medium bowl, melt the butter. You can do this in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or in a small saucepan over low heat.
- To the melted butter, add the minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Once the chicken is cooked through and nicely browned, reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour the garlic Parmesan sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat each piece evenly.
- Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together. Spoon the sauce over the chicken a few times during this process.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken immediately while it’s hot and the sauce is creamy.
Notes
- Pounding the chicken is crucial for even cooking and tenderness.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C).
- For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half while simmering.
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors.
- Serve with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or a salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes