If you are searching for a dish that feels both comforting and indulgent, the Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is sure to become your new favorite. This dish combines the satisfying crispiness of a golden Parmesan crust with a luxuriously smooth, garlicky sauce that elevates every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special occasion, this recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that makes every meal memorable and mouthwateringly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of this recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients, each adding its own magic. From the crunchy, flavorful crust to the silky sauce, these components come together to create a harmonious balance of taste and texture.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Flattened to ensure even cooking and tender bites.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a savory, nutty crust that crisps perfectly when cooked.
- 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs: Adds texture and holds the crust together with a flavorful Italian twist.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle garlic flavor into the crust for depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A gentle spice that enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and brings out the natural taste of the chicken.
- 2 large eggs (beaten): Acts as the adhesive to help the crust stick beautifully to the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for a golden sear that locks in juiciness.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and a silky base for the creamy sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Bursts of fresh garlic aroma infuse the sauce with irresistible flavor.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to a perfect creamy consistency.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and a touch of subtle seasoning to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Brings luxurious creaminess that defines the sauce’s velvety texture.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce): Enhances the sauce with a rich, cheesy finish.
- 1 teaspoon chopped parsley (optional for garnish): Adds a fresh burst of color and a hint of herbal brightness.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by pounding your chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This trick ensures each piece cooks evenly, giving you juicy, tender meat throughout. Set up your breading station by mixing Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt in a shallow bowl. Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, then press firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. This helps the crust stick well and become delectably crunchy when cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the coated chicken breasts and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Your goal here is that beautiful golden crust with a fully cooked interior. Once done, transfer the chicken to a clean plate and keep it warm — you’re about to make the sauce that will take this dish to the next level.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Garlic Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add butter to the empty skillet. When it’s melted and shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute, only until aromatic. Sprinkle in the flour and stir briskly until a thick paste forms. Slowly pour in chicken broth, whisking continuously, then add heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens just right. Stir in the remaining Parmesan cheese until the sauce melts into a smooth, luscious cream that makes your kitchen smell like heaven.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Spoon sauce over the top and let it simmer together for another 2 to 3 minutes so the chicken can soak up all those bold flavors. If you like, sprinkle with fresh parsley to add a cheerful burst of green and a hint of freshness. Now you’re ready to serve!
How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your presentation beautifully. A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh bite that complements the creamy garlic sauce perfectly. For a touch of elegance, freshly cracked black pepper or an extra dusting of Parmesan right before serving makes all the difference.
Side Dishes
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe pairs wonderfully with comfort-food classics like buttery mashed potatoes or creamy pasta to soak up every last drop of sauce. For a lighter, fresh pairing, steamed green vegetables or a crisp garden salad add balance and vibrant flavors to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the chicken atop a bed of cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables for a trendy, low-carb option. Plating the chicken sliced next to garlic sautéed spinach or drizzled over creamy polenta creates a restaurant-worthy experience at home. No matter how you serve it, the key is to let that irresistible sauce shine front and center.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, place cooked chicken and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers. This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To revive your leftovers, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream can refresh the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid the microwave if you can, as the crust can get soggy. This method keeps that satisfying crunch intact.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used and may add extra juiciness. Just adjust cooking time slightly and ensure they are cooked through.
Is there a low-carb version of this recipe?
Yes! Swap out the Italian-style breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed pork rinds to keep it low-carb while preserving the crispy texture.
Can the sauce be made without heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter sauce, but the texture will be less rich and creamy.
How do I prevent the crust from falling off?
Make sure to pat the chicken dry before dipping in egg, and press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the surface. Cooking over medium heat without moving the chicken too much helps the crust set well.
Can this dish be doubled for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just work in batches when breading and cooking the chicken to avoid overcrowding the pan, which helps keep the crust crisp and the sauce delicious.
Final Thoughts
Trying out the Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe means bringing a little bit of magic to your table with every bite. It’s one of those recipes that feels special yet is easy enough for any night of the week. From the crusty exterior to the silky sauce, it’s a perfect meal that invites comfort and celebration alike. Give it a go, and soon enough this dish will become a cherished staple in your cooking repertoire!
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Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delicious and easy-to-make main course featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb crust, served with a rich and velvety garlic cream sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, it’s flavorful and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Cooking and Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)
- 1 teaspoon chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet to ensure they cook evenly. In a shallow bowl, combine 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, Italian-style breadcrumbs, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken breast first into the beaten eggs, then dredge thoroughly in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating well.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the coated chicken breasts and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and keep warm.
- Make Creamy Garlic Sauce: Reduce skillet heat to medium-low and add unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle flour over the garlic and butter mixture and stir continuously to form a smooth paste.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth followed by the heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Finish Sauce: Stir in the remaining 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the garlic cream sauce over the top. Let simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes to meld flavors. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a full meal.
- For a low-carb alternative, substitute almond flour in place of Italian-style breadcrumbs in the coating.
- The creamy garlic sauce can be prepared ahead of time and gently reheated before serving.
