Unleash the flavor explosion you didn’t know you were missing with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Over Mashed Potatoes. This indulgent dish marries succulent chicken infused with aromatic garlic and rich Parmesan cheese, resting on a fluffy bed of creamy mashed potatoes. Each forkful delivers a heavenly combination of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

If you’re looking to customize, consider incorporating sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables for added color and nutrition. Want to spice things up? A dash of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile. For those preferring a vegetarian twist, grilled or baked portobello mushrooms serve as a delightful substitute.

To master this dish, ensure your chicken is properly seasoned and allow the garlic to infuse its essence for the perfect sauté. With these expert tips and variations at your fingertips, you’re just moments away from creating a meal that’s not only comforting but also impressive enough for entertaining guests!

Contents show

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Over Mashed Potatoes:

For the Garlic Parmesan Chicken:

4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
6 cloves of fresh garlic, minced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth

For the Mashed Potatoes:

3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup unsalted butter
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Optional Variations & Alternative Ingredients:

If you’re looking to add a twist to your dish, consider these options:

For a Creamy Finish: Add 1/2 cup of cream cheese to the mashed potatoes for a richer texture or try sweet potato mash for a fun twist.
Herb Infusion: Swap parsley for fresh thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile of both the chicken and potatoes.
Cheese Lovers: Incorporate an additional variety of cheese like mozzarella or gouda into the mashed potatoes for a cheesy delight.
Control the Spice: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to create a well-rounded meal. Consider a crisp side salad with a light dressing for added freshness.

How to prepare Garlic Parmesan Chicken Over Mashed Potatoes:

Creating the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Over Mashed Potatoes is a step-by-step process that combines tenderness and flavor. Follow these instructions carefully to bring this dish to life.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Start by peeling about four large potatoes. Cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

Place the potato pieces into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the pot.

Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes until they are tender when pierced with a fork.

Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the pot. Allow them to steam for a couple of minutes to remove excess moisture.

Add half a cup of milk and a quarter cup of unsalted butter to the potatoes. Use a potato masher or electric mixer to mash until smooth and creamy.

Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Keep them warm while preparing the chicken.

Cook the Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for even cooking.

Season both sides of four chicken breast fillets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken.

Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Pour in half a cup of chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. After the broth simmers, return the chicken to the skillet.

Sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven.

Bake the chicken for an additional 15-20 minutes or until its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Assemble and Serve

Once everything is cooked, serve the creamy mashed potatoes on individual plates. Top them with the garlic Parmesan chicken.

Drizzle any remaining sauce from the skillet over the chicken for added flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Over Mashed Potatoes is now ready to be enjoyed! Dig in!

Irresistible Garlic Parmesan Chicken Over Mashed Potatoes – A Flavorful Comfort Dish

Author: Eleanor
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Ingredients

Scale

For the Garlic Parmesan Chicken:

4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
6 cloves of fresh garlic, minced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth

For the Mashed Potatoes:

3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup unsalted butter
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Optional Variations & Alternative Ingredients:

For a Creamy Finish: Add 1/2 cup of cream cheese to the mashed potatoes for a richer texture or try sweet potato mash for a fun twist.
Herb Infusion: Swap parsley for fresh thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile of both the chicken and potatoes.
Cheese Lovers: Incorporate an additional variety of cheese like mozzarella or gouda into the mashed potatoes for a cheesy delight.
Control the Spice: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

Start by peeling about four large potatoes. Cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
Place the potato pieces into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the pot.
Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the pot. Allow them to steam for a couple of minutes to remove excess moisture.
Add half a cup of milk and a quarter cup of unsalted butter to the potatoes. Use a potato masher or electric mixer to mash until smooth and creamy.
Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Keep them warm while preparing the chicken.

Cook the Garlic Parmesan Chicken:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Season both sides of four chicken breast fillets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in half a cup of chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. After the broth simmers, return the chicken to the skillet.
Sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven.
Bake the chicken for an additional 15-20 minutes or until its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Assemble and Serve:

Once everything is cooked, serve the creamy mashed potatoes on individual plates. Top them with the garlic Parmesan chicken.
Drizzle any remaining sauce from the skillet over the chicken for added flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Maintain the Right Temperature: Always cook your chicken at the right temperature. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor and texture, choose high-quality chicken breasts, fresh garlic, real Parmesan cheese, and high-quality butter.
Perfecting Mashed Potatoes: For creamy mashed potatoes, boil them until fork-tender, drain them well, and add warm milk and butter for the best consistency.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing, Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: per serving
Calories: 630 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 890 mg
Fat: 34 g
Saturated Fat: 12 g
Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 42 g
Cholesterol: 150 mg

Tips for the Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Over Mashed Potatoes

Maintain the Right Temperature

To achieve the best flavor and texture, always cook your chicken at the right temperature. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken is thoroughly cooked without being dry. Start by searing the chicken in a hot skillet to create a crispy crust. After that, let it cook on lower heat to finish. If you are using the oven, preheat it properly to cook the chicken evenly.

Use Quality Ingredients

Choose high-quality chicken breasts for this dish. Organic or free-range chicken often has better flavor and texture. Fresh garlic, real Parmesan cheese, and high-quality butter add depth to the dish. Avoid pre-minced garlic, as fresh garlic delivers a more robust flavor. When selecting potatoes, opt for Yukon Gold or Russet, as they yield creamy mashed potatoes.

Perfecting Mashed Potatoes

For creamy mashed potatoes, boil them until fork-tender but not falling apart. Drain them well and add warm milk and butter for the best consistency. Use a potato masher or ricer for smooth, lump-free potatoes. Season to taste with salt and pepper, and consider adding a clove of roasted garlic for extra flavor.

Dietary Substitutions

If you have dietary restrictions, making adjustments is straightforward. For gluten-free needs, ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free. You can replace dairy in the mashed potatoes with almond milk or coconut cream. Instead of butter, use olive oil or vegan butter. If you’re avoiding chicken, try this recipe with tofu or mushrooms. These alternatives absorb flavors just as well.

Experiment with Flavor Variations

Feel free to adjust the flavor profile depending on your taste. Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the chicken for an aromatic touch. For a twist, incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or spinach into the mashed potatoes for added nutrition and flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the whole dish.

By following these tips, you’ll create a delicious plate of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Over Mashed Potatoes that everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking!

Storage Tips for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Over Mashed Potatoes:

Proper storage can enhance the longevity of your meal, ensuring you enjoy the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and chicken long after cooking. Here are some effective strategies to maintain freshness and taste.

Cool Before Storing

Allow your dish to cool down to room temperature before storing it. This prevents condensation from forming in the storage container, which can lead to sogginess. Never leave food out for more than two hours, as bacteria can grow rapidly.

Choose the Right Container

Use an airtight container to store your leftovers. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers work best, but ensure they seal tightly. This type of container keeps moisture out while retaining the dish’s flavors. Avoid using aluminum foil or plastic wrap alone, as they do not provide a secure barrier against air and odors.

Optimal Storage Conditions

Refrigerate your garlic parmesan chicken and mashed potatoes within two hours of cooking. Set your refrigerator temperature to 40°F (4°C) or lower. This temperature helps maintain food safety and quality. If you want to store the meal for an extended time, consider freezing it instead.

Freezing for Longer Shelf Life

If you plan to freeze your dish, separate the chicken and mashed potatoes. This helps each component retain its texture. Place each in individual airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Frozen meals can last up to three months.

Label and Date

Always label your containers with the date you made the dish. This small step helps you track how long items have been in storage. Use the ‘first in, first out’ method to consume older items first. This practice reduces food waste.

Reheating Guidelines

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, thaw frozen meals in the refrigerator overnight, or use a microwave for quick defrosting. Reheat chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Mashed potatoes can be heated on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or butter to restore their creamy consistency.

By following these storage tips, you can keep your garlic parmesan chicken and mashed potatoes fresh and delicious, ready to be enjoyed later!

Related Recipes to Enhance Your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Experience

If you love the savory flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and creamy textures found in garlic Parmesan chicken over mashed potatoes, you might enjoy these complementary dishes. Each suggestion shares key ingredients or cooking methods that enhance the overall meal experience.

Garlic Butter Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of vegetables. Toss broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers in garlic and butter to create a flavorful side. These veggies add color and crunch to your plate, perfectly balancing the chicken and potatoes.
Creamy Mushroom Risotto: This dish pairs well due to its rich, creamy consistency. The umami from the mushrooms complements the savory flavors of the chicken. A bowl of warm risotto provides a comforting alternative to mashed potatoes while maintaining that luxurious feel.
Caesar Salad: A Caesar salad’s crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide freshness. The garlic and Parmesan in the dressing echo the main dish, while adding a lightness that offsets the richness of the chicken and potatoes.
Herbed Garlic Bread: This favorite is easy to make and matches beautifully with garlic Parmesan chicken. The aroma of freshly baked bread infused with garlic and herbs draws everyone to the table. Plus, it’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your main dish.

Together, these recipes not only elevate your dining experience but also seamlessly connect with the flavors of garlic Parmesan chicken over mashed potatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What ingredients are essential for making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Over Mashed Potatoes?

To prepare a delicious dish of garlic-infused chicken with Parmesan served over creamy mashed potatoes, you will need boneless chicken breasts, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, heavy cream or butter for the potatoes, and your choice of seasonings such as salt, pepper, and herbs. Fresh parsley can also enhance the flavor and presentation.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?

Absolutely! While boneless chicken breasts are often used in Garlic Parmesan Chicken Over Mashed Potatoes, chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and tender texture, making them a popular choice among chefs and home cooks alike. Just ensure that the cooking time is adjusted slightly, as thighs may require a longer cooking period to reach the desired tenderness.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To create a lighter version of this chicken over mashed potatoes, consider using skinless chicken, reducing the amount of heavy cream or opting for a low-fat milk alternative when mashing your potatoes. Additionally, adding more vegetables, such as steamed broccoli or spinach, alongside the chicken can enhance nutritional value without compromising flavor.

What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken to complete the meal?

In conjunction with Garlic Parmesan Chicken served atop mashed potatoes, you might consider serving a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. These accompaniments will balance the richness of the main dish while offering a variety of textures and flavors to your table.

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Certainly! You can marinate the chicken with garlic, Parmesan, and your desired spices a day in advance. When you’re ready to cook, simply remove it from the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature, and then proceed with sautéing or baking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop more deeply.

Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Yes, leftovers of this delicious chicken dish can be frozen for later enjoyment. To ensure the best quality, cool the Garlic Parmesan Chicken and mashed potatoes completely before storing them in airtight containers. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat until warmed through.

Conclusion:

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Over Mashed Potatoes is a fantastic dish that effortlessly combines rich flavors with ease of preparation. This recipe stands out for its simplicity, allowing home cooks to whip up a delightful meal without extensive time or effort.

The flexibility of the dish lets you customize it to suit various tastes; whether you prefer adding vegetables or experimenting with different seasonings, the possibilities are endless. By starting with perfectly creamy mashed potatoes, you create a fantastic base that beautifully complements the savory garlic parmesan chicken. Remember to engage your creativity in the kitchen—mix in your favorite herbs or adjust the cheese according to your palate. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a comforting, hearty meal for any occasion. Embrace this easy and adaptable recipe, and share it with family and friends for a delightful dining experience.