Hello food lovers! If you’ve been looking for a dinner recipe that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, you’re in the right place. This Parmesan-Encrusted Chicken with Creamy Cheese Sauce is the perfect dish to satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests. Let’s dive into this delicious journey together, where cheesy goodness meets a golden, crispy crunch. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just a cozy night in, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
INTRODUCTION
There’s something magical about a crispy, cheesy chicken dish, and this Parmesan-Encrusted Chicken with Creamy Cheese Sauce doesn’t disappoint. This recipe takes inspiration from classic Italian flavors, with a rich, creamy cheese sauce that perfectly complements the golden, crispy chicken. The balance of textures – from the crunch of the breadcrumb topping to the smooth, melted cheese – makes every bite delightful. What makes this dish even better is how easy it is to prepare. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this recipe is simple enough for a weeknight but fancy enough for a special occasion. Now, let’s get started!
INGREDIENTS
To prepare this comforting Parmesan-Encrusted Chicken with Creamy Cheese Sauce, you’ll need the following:
The Chicken Canvas:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (5 oz each)
The Flavorful Marinade:
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- Juice from half a lemon
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
The Creamy Parmesan Bliss:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
The Golden Crunch Brigade:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Optional: Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Sides: Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables
HOW TO MAKE PARMESAN-ENCRUSTED CHICKEN WITH CREAMY CHEESE SAUCE
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Parmesan-Encrusted Chicken with Creamy Cheese Sauce:
- Prep the Chicken: Tenderize the chicken breasts to ½ inch thickness using a meat mallet.
- Marinade: In a dish, whisk together the ranch dressing, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, garlic salt, and black pepper. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the marinade, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Searing: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Sear the marinated chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F).
- Cheese Spread: In a small saucepan, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, provolone cheese slices, and ranch dressing. Melt over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble: Place the cooked chicken in a baking dish. Spoon the cheese mixture evenly over each breast.
- Breadcrumb Topping: In a bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and garlic powder. Coat the top of each chicken breast with this crumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
- Broil: Preheat your broiler to high. Broil the chicken for 3-4 minutes until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Enjoy the perfect balance of crunchy, cheesy, and savory flavors!
HELPFUL TIPS
- Marinate Longer: If time allows, let the chicken marinate overnight to infuse it with even more flavor.
- Cheese Consistency: When making the cheese sauce, make sure to stir constantly on low heat to prevent it from clumping or burning.
- Broil with Caution: Watch the chicken closely under the broiler, as the breadcrumbs can quickly turn from golden to burnt.
COOKING TIPS
Here are some extra tips to ensure your Parmesan-Encrusted Chicken with Creamy Cheese Sauce turns out perfectly every time:
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Panko Substitutes: If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can substitute with regular breadcrumbs, though the panko will give a crunchier texture.
- Non-Stick Baking: To prevent the chicken from sticking to the baking dish, lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray before adding the chicken.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
This Parmesan-Encrusted Chicken with Creamy Cheese Sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complement your dish:
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy cheese sauce tastes divine over a side of smooth mashed potatoes.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try serving with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus for a well-rounded meal.
- Crisp Salad: A fresh, green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
Pair with a chilled glass of white wine, like a crisp Chardonnay, to elevate your dining experience.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Short Nutritional Information for this Parmesan-Encrusted Chicken with Creamy Cheese Sauce:
- Calories: 490 kcal per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Calcium: 250mg
- Iron: 1.8mg
This dish is high in protein and provides a good source of calcium, thanks to the cheese, which is essential for bone health. However, be mindful of the sodium content, especially if you’re watching your salt intake.
STORAGE AND LEFTOVERS
To keep your Parmesan-Encrusted Chicken with Creamy Cheese Sauce fresh for the next day, follow these tips:
- Refrigerate: Store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: To maintain the crispy texture, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use an air fryer for quick reheating.
Creative Leftover Ideas: Slice the leftover chicken and use it in a sandwich, or chop it up to top a salad for lunch the next day.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! While provolone and Parmesan provide great flavor and meltability, you can substitute with mozzarella or cheddar for a different taste. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly.
What can I use instead of ranch dressing?
If you’re not a fan of ranch dressing, you can swap it out for Caesar dressing or even Greek yogurt mixed with herbs for a tangier alternative.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
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These dishes are equally delicious and make for a satisfying meal.
CONCLUSION
Now that you’ve discovered how easy it is to make this Parmesan-Encrusted Chicken with Creamy Cheese Sauce, it’s time to give it a try in your own kitchen. With its rich flavors and perfect crunch, this dish will surely become a staple in your recipe collection. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below or suggest any variations you’ve tried. Happy cooking!
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PARMESAN-ENCRUSTED CHICKEN WITH CREAMY CHEESE SAUCE
Description
Hello food lovers! If you’ve been looking for a dinner recipe that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, you’re in the right place. This Parmesan-Encrusted Chicken with Creamy Cheese Sauce is the perfect dish to satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests. Let’s dive into this delicious journey together, where cheesy goodness meets a golden, crispy crunch. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just a cozy night in, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients
The Chicken Canvas:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (5 oz each)
The Flavorful Marinade:
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- Juice from half a lemon
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
The Creamy Parmesan Bliss:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
The Golden Crunch Brigade:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Tenderize the chicken breasts to ½ inch thickness using a meat mallet.
- Marinade: In a dish, whisk together the ranch dressing, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, garlic salt, and black pepper. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the marinade, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Searing: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Sear the marinated chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F).
- Cheese Spread: In a small saucepan, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, provolone cheese slices, and ranch dressing. Melt over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble: Place the cooked chicken in a baking dish. Spoon the cheese mixture evenly over each breast.
- Breadcrumb Topping: In a bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and garlic powder. Coat the top of each chicken breast with this crumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
- Broil: Preheat your broiler to high. Broil the chicken for 3-4 minutes until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Marinate Longer: If time allows, let the chicken marinate overnight to infuse it with even more flavor.
- Cheese Consistency: When making the cheese sauce, make sure to stir constantly on low heat to prevent it from clumping or burning.
- Broil with Caution: Watch the chicken closely under the broiler, as the breadcrumbs can quickly turn from golden to burnt.
