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+ servings

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake with California Avocado

This quick and indulgent garlic parmesan chicken bake is a California-inspired twist on a classic, ready in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Chicken, Dinner, Quick Meals
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts about 1 lb total
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon California olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
  • 1 cup heavy cream or heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese about 2 oz
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • 1 ripe Hass avocado sliced, for serving (optional)

Method
 

Prepare the Chicken
  1. Slice each chicken breast horizontally through the middle to create 4 even cutlets. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Sear the Chicken
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and butter, swirling to coat the pan. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the chicken cutlets in a single layer. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F on an instant-read thermometer). Transfer the chicken to a plate and loosely cover with foil to keep warm. Turn off the heat.
Make the Sauce
  1. Return the skillet to medium-high heat. Sprinkle in the flour and minced garlic, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and whisk vigorously to dissolve the flour. Let the liquid reduce by half, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  2. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle bubble. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan until melted and smooth.
Finish and Serve
  1. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Add any juices from the plate. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. For a California touch, top with sliced avocado.

Nutrition

Calories: 485kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 38gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 195mgSodium: 520mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2g

Notes

For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan from a block—pre-shredded won't melt as smoothly. If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it with a splash of chicken broth or cream. This dish can be made ahead: prepare the chicken and sauce separately, then combine and reheat gently on the stovetop. Avoid overcooking the chicken by using an instant-read thermometer; it goes from perfect to dry quickly. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. The avocado is optional but adds a creamy, fresh contrast.

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