If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that comes together in no time, you’ve found it! This One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe is a cherished favorite in my home. It’s not just simple to prepare; it brings together juicy chicken with vibrant tomatoes and sweet bell peppers, all kissed by the flavors of garlic and herbs. On busy weeknights or during family gatherings, this dish shines as a reliable go-to that everyone loves.
What makes this recipe even more special is its ease of preparation. With just one pan to clean up afterward, you’ll have more time to spend with loved ones. Plus, the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting at the table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in about 45 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.
- One Pan Wonder: Less mess means less stress! You only need one skillet for cooking.
- Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and fresh veggies makes this meal appealing to both kids and adults.
- Customizable Ingredients: Use whatever veggies you have on hand or make it your own with seasonings!
- Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and simply reheat when you’re ready to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients is half the fun! For this One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe, you’ll need fresh produce, pantry staples, and a sprinkle of love to create a fantastic meal.
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
For the Vegetables
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
For the Sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For Finishing Touches
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup dry white grape juice (optional)
Variations
Flexibility is key in the kitchen! This recipe can easily adapt to suit your tastes or what’s available in your pantry. Here are some fun ideas:
- Swap the protein: Try using diced turkey or tofu for a different twist on this dish.
- Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
- Spice it up: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or some jalapeños.
- Change up the cheese: Swap out Parmesan for mozzarella or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option!
How to Make One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This step helps achieve a lovely golden-brown color when cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper because this will enhance all the flavors throughout the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron works best), melt butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook while stirring occasionally until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Browning adds depth of flavor!
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add onion slices. Cook until softened (about 3-5 minutes), then stir in minced garlic and red bell pepper. These veggies will soak up all those wonderful flavors left behind by the chicken!
Step 4: Build Flavor with Sauce Ingredients
Pour in diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and white grape juice (if using). Stir well to combine everything into a beautiful sauce that will coat your chicken later.
Step 5: Simmer Together
Bring everything to a gentle simmer before returning the chicken back into the skillet. Make sure most of it is submerged in that flavorful sauce! Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Herbs
Once cooked through, stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. This step adds creaminess and brightness to your dish! Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 7: Serve It Up!
Serve immediately while it’s hot! Pair your One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal everyone will adore.
Enjoy every bite of this easy weeknight dinner recipe!
Pro Tips for Making One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe
Cooking this delicious dish can be a breeze! Here are some pro tips to elevate your One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken experience.
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Prep Ahead: Chopping vegetables and measuring out spices in advance can save you valuable time during the cooking process, making weeknight meals less stressful.
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Choose Quality Chicken: Using fresh, high-quality chicken breasts will enhance the flavor of your dish. Look for organic or free-range options if possible.
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Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch and brightens up the dish beautifully. If you can, try to use fresh herbs instead of dried for a more intense flavor.
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Don’t Skip Browning: Browning the chicken before adding other ingredients creates depth of flavor and helps lock in moisture, resulting in tender and juicy chicken.
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Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different; feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your liking for a personalized flavor profile.
How to Serve One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe
Presentation can make any meal feel special! Here are some creative ways to serve your One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken that will impress family or guests alike.
Garnishes
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Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle on top not only adds color but also freshness that complements the savory flavors.
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Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the dish even more.
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Grated Extra Parmesan: A light dusting of extra Parmesan just before serving elevates both taste and presentation.
Side Dishes
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce from the chicken. Choose a rustic baguette or sourdough for an extra kick.
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Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic pair wonderfully with this dish, making every bite comforting and satisfying.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or asparagus add color and nutrition while complementing the flavors of your chicken.
By following these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll transform your One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken into an unforgettable meal that’s easy to prepare and enjoy!
Make Ahead and Storage
This One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken is perfect for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze! You can easily prepare it in advance and store it for later, ensuring you always have a delicious meal at hand.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you prefer, portion it out into individual servings for easy access.
Freezing
- Let the dish cool down to room temperature first.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Label each container with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and reheat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about this recipe!
Can I make One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook it ahead of time and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer.
What can I serve with One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. Feel free to get creative with sides that complement the flavors!
Can I substitute ingredients in One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out bell peppers for your favorite veggies or use different herbs based on what you have on hand.
How long does One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken last in the fridge?
The chicken will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken as much as I do! It’s not only simple but packed with flavor, making it a delightful addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any twists you make on this recipe—happy cooking!
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