Description
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!
Ingredients
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