Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The combination of a perfectly seasoned, crispy Parmesan crust and a luscious, creamy garlic sauce creates a flavorful balance that’s irresistible. The chicken is tender on the inside with a satisfying crunch on the outside, while the creamy sauce brings richness and depth to every bite. It’s a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with pasta, vegetables, or a fresh salad, making it both easy and impressive.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp pepper

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 2 tbsp olive oil, for frying

• 4 tbsp butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for the sauce)

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

3. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten eggs, then dredge it in the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to coat the chicken evenly.

4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and finish cooking in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

5. While the chicken is baking, make the garlic sauce. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

6. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook for another minute, until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

7. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and serve with the creamy garlic sauce on top. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Alternatives: You can swap chicken breasts with boneless chicken thighs for a juicier option.

• Cheese Variation: Try using Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for a different twist on the Parmesan crust.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce for some heat.

• Low-Carb Option: Use almond flour or a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative to make this dish gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through. For the sauce, reheat it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store the chicken and sauce separately in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work just as well, offering a slightly juicier result.

3. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few more minutes or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to the sauce.

4. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately. Store in airtight containers and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

5. What can I serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

6. Can I make this dish without breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can use crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs for a different texture. For a low-carb option, you can even skip the breadcrumbs entirely and use ground almonds or pork rind crumbs.

7. Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Certainly! Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes would be delicious additions to the creamy garlic sauce.

8. Can I use heavy whipping cream instead of regular heavy cream?

Yes, heavy whipping cream will work perfectly for this recipe. The key is to use a cream with a higher fat content to create a rich sauce.

9. Can I make the garlic sauce without cream?

For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less creamy.

10. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Conclusion

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy crust and rich, garlicky sauce, this meal will quickly become a favorite in your household. It’s simple to make, yet feels indulgent, offering the best of both worlds. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, this dish is sure to impress!