Creamy Parmesan Chicken Delight

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
2. Pound the Chicken:
   • Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures even cooking.
3. Season and Dredge:
   • In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
4. Cook the Chicken:
5. Heat Oil:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Sear the Chicken:
   • Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
7. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
8. Sauté Garlic:
   • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant but not browned.
9. Add Cream:
   • Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic and any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
10. Add Parmesan and Seasonings:
    • Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the dried Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to stir until the sauce is well combined and slightly thickened.
11. Combine and Serve:
12. Return Chicken to Skillet:
    • Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for a few minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld.
13. Garnish and Serve:
    • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• With Pasta: Serve the creamy Parmesan chicken over a bed of pasta, such as fettuccine, linguine, or penne, to soak up the delicious sauce.
• With Vegetables: Pair with steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans, for a balanced meal.
• With Rice: Serve alongside a fluffy side of rice or risotto to complement the rich sauce.

Tips and Variations:

• Chicken Breasts: You can also use chicken thighs for a more flavorful option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Sauce Variations: For a tangy twist, add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the sauce. For extra richness, a touch of cream cheese can be incorporated.
• Make Ahead: The chicken and sauce can be prepared ahead of time and reheated gently on the stove.

Creamy Parmesan Chicken Delight is a crowd-pleaser with its luscious sauce and tender chicken. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner and pairs beautifully with your favorite sides. Enjoy this comforting dish with your loved ones! 🍗🧀