Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a mouthwatering, easy-to-make dish that combines tender, air-fried chicken thighs with a rich and creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Made with boneless skinless chicken thighs, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasions. The chicken is coated in a flavorful spice blend, air-fried to perfection, and then topped with a decadent garlic parmesan sauce made with heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and spinach. Serve it over pasta, rice, or potatoes for a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress your family and guests.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Thighs:

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (Springer Mountain Farms)
• 1 ½ teaspoons 14-spice seasoning
• ¾ tablespoon garlic pepper seasoning
• ¾ tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon garlic-infused olive oil

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons minced onion
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 ¼ cups heavy cream
• 1 handful fresh spinach (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
• ½ tablespoon lemon pepper
• ½ tablespoon dried parsley
• 1 tablespoon gluten-free 1:1 flour
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

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Instructions:

For the Chicken Thighs:

1. Start by washing the chicken thighs and patting them dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix the garlic-infused olive oil, 14-spice seasoning, garlic pepper, paprika, and salt until a paste forms. Add more olive oil if necessary to achieve a pasty consistency.
3. Coat both sides of the chicken thighs with the spice paste, using your hands (with gloves) or a spoon.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C). Air fry the chicken thighs in a single layer for 8 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Set the chicken aside.

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

1. While the chicken is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and butter, and bring the mixture to a gentle bubble.
4. Stir in the dried parsley, garlic powder, lemon pepper, chopped spinach, flour, and grated parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
5. Once the sauce has thickened, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and coat it with the sauce. Alternatively, serve the chicken over pasta, rice, or potatoes, and pour the garlic parmesan sauce over the top.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The crispy air-fried chicken thighs are perfectly seasoned, while the rich and creamy garlic parmesan sauce adds an irresistible layer of flavor. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or potatoes, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for something indulgent yet easy to make.

Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

• Spice it up: If you enjoy a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.
• Make it dairy-free: To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use vegan parmesan cheese.
• No air fryer? If you don’t have an air fryer, you can cook the chicken thighs in a skillet or bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Vegetable variations: Add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the garlic parmesan sauce for extra flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, chicken breasts will work as a substitute, but they may require a slightly shorter cooking time. Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).

Can I make the sauce ahead of time? Yes, the garlic parmesan sauce can be made ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving. If it thickens too much, simply add a splash of chicken broth to thin it out.

Can I freeze the garlic parmesan chicken? Yes, you can freeze the chicken with the sauce. After cooking, allow it to cool, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Serving

Serve this Garlic Parmesan Chicken with a side of pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a fresh salad or sautéed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.

Suggestions

For a more filling meal, serve the chicken with buttered pasta or crispy roasted potatoes to soak up the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, pairs wonderfully with this dish, complementing the richness of the sauce.