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Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Coat the chicken evenly to make sure each piece has a nice layer of seasoning.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the pan and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant—be careful not to burn the garlic! Then, pour in the heavy cream and stir, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
Bring the cream to a simmer and allow it to cook for 3-4 minutes, thickening slightly. Once the cream has reduced, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce over the top of each piece. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 3-4 minutes so it can absorb some of the delicious flavors.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked through and coated with the creamy sauce, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh, herby flavor. Serve the chicken with your favorite sides—roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a light salad.
Why My Husband Loves This Dish:
- Rich, Comforting Flavors: The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce is indulgent yet balanced, and the addition of chicken makes it hearty without being overwhelming. It’s the perfect comfort food, full of rich flavors that satisfy any craving.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Impact: Despite the rich flavors, this dish is made with everyday ingredients you likely have on hand. The garlic, Parmesan, and cream come together to create a luxurious sauce that elevates the chicken without requiring hours of prep.
- Quick and Easy to Make: This is one of those dishes that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It doesn’t take much time to prepare, yet it feels like a special treat whenever it’s served.
- Customizable: The dish is easily customizable to your taste. You can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for added flavor and texture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or milk.
Tips for Success:
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To keep the chicken tender and juicy, be sure not to overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F. Overcooking can result in dry chicken, and no one wants that!
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic really makes a difference in the flavor of this dish. It brings a depth of flavor to the sauce that pre-minced garlic can’t quite replicate.
- Make it a Meal: Serve this creamy chicken with your favorite sides to complete the meal. Roasted potatoes, pasta, or a green vegetable like asparagus or broccoli all pair wonderfully with this dish.
Conclusion:
“Husband’s Happiness” has become a beloved tradition in our household. It’s a dish that brings joy to both the chef and the diner, and it’s the perfect way to show someone you care. Whether it’s for a special celebration or just a quiet evening at home, this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken never fails to deliver. And if your family is anything like mine, it’s a dish they’ll be requesting again and again.
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