Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if preferred)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ cup almond flour (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil for frying)

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter (or ghee for dairy-free)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

PREPARATION:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Set up a breading station:
   • In one shallow bowl, combine the almond flour (or gluten-free breadcrumbs) and half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
   • In another bowl, beat the eggs.
3. Dredge each chicken breast in the egg mixture, then coat evenly with the almond flour/Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Stir in the remaining grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to stir until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce generously over the top to coat them.
2. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.