Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This indulgent yet simple dish combines tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy, gluten-free breading, smothered in a rich and creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is packed with flavor and easy to prepare!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if preferred)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ cup almond flour (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil for frying)

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter (or ghee for dairy-free)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Set up a breading station:
   • In one shallow bowl, combine the almond flour (or gluten-free breadcrumbs) and half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
   • In another bowl, beat the eggs.
3. Dredge each chicken breast in the egg mixture, then coat evenly with the almond flour/Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Stir in the remaining grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to stir until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce generously over the top to coat them.
2. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the creamy garlic Parmesan chicken over steamed vegetables like broccoli, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Pair with mashed potatoes or gluten-free pasta for a heartier meal.
• Add a side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.

Tips for Success

• Gluten-Free Breading Tip: If you can’t find gluten-free breadcrumbs, make your own by pulsing gluten-free crackers or stale gluten-free bread in a food processor.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with ghee or olive oil, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and opt for nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid drying out the chicken.

Enjoy this creamy, flavorful chicken dish that’s sure to become a family favorite! Whether you’re gluten-free or just looking for a delicious twist on classic comfort food, this recipe delivers big on taste and satisfaction.