Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce
There’s something truly comforting about a well-prepared chicken dish that brings the whole family together, and Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce does just that. Picture succulent, boneless chicken breasts coated in a crispy blend of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, all smothered in a rich and silky garlic sauce. I’ve whipped this recipe up countless times, and each time it disappears off the plates within minutes. Not only is it incredibly satisfying, but it’s also perfect for both a busy weeknight dinner and a special occasion when you want to impress.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe stands out for many reasons. First and foremost, it’s a quick and easy dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor or presentation—ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. It’s budget-friendly too, as chicken breasts are typically affordable and serve well for larger gatherings. Plus, the familiar flavors of garlic and Parmesan are sure to please kids and adults alike, making it a family-approved meal.
“I made this for Sunday dinner, and my husband couldn’t get enough of it! The chicken was crispy on the outside and juicy inside, and that sauce? Divine!” – Sarah, a happy home cook
The cooking process explained
Making Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a straightforward process that can be tackled easily, even by a novice chef. You start with a few simple steps that lead to a restaurant-quality dish. Soon, you’ll be savoring perfectly baked, succulent chicken—crispy on the outside and tender inside—drizzled with a creamy, flavorful garlic sauce. Ready to dive in? Let’s break down everything you need to whip this up with ease.
What you’ll need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian or plain)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Feel free to swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives if needed. Also, if you’re watching your calories, consider using reduced-fat cream. The key is to use quality ingredients to elevate the dish!
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a shallow dish, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to make sure the coating sticks.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet, cooking until each side is golden and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per side).
- Once golden, transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked through.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, allowing it to simmer until it thickens slightly (about 3-5 minutes).
- Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over your crispy chicken and garnish with fresh parsley.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Parmesan Crusted Chicken, the options are nearly endless. You can serve it alongside a fresh garden salad for a light meal, or pair it with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious garlic sauce. It also goes wonderfully with steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus for a colorful plate. For something more indulgent, try it over a bed of spaghetti or with garlic bread on the side to complete that Italian feast vibe!
Storage and reheating tips
To keep leftovers fresh, store any uneaten chicken and garlic sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last up to 3 days. When reheating, it’s best to do so in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed throughout. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken rubbery. If you want to save the dish for longer, you can freeze the cooked chicken, wrapped tightly, for up to 2 months. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly to ensure food safety!
Tricks for success
For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate in olive oil, salt, and pepper for about 30 minutes before breading. Also, make sure to press down firmly when coating the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture to ensure a nice, thick crust. Using a combination of Italian breadcrumbs with fresh Parmesan will really elevate the dish’s taste, giving you that authentic Italian restaurant flair right at home.
Creative twists
Looking to mix things up? You could add fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the breadcrumb coating for a burst of flavor. Alternatively, for a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes. Want to cater to a specific diet? Opt for almond flour or panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version, or swap out heavy cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for this recipe?
The prep time is about 20 minutes, with an additional 20-25 minutes for cooking.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great too; just adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
How can I make this dish lighter?
You can use low-fat cream or even a milk alternative like almond milk to reduce calories, and bake rather than fry for a healthier touch.
How do I store the creamy garlic sauce?
Store the sauce separately from the chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove to keep it smooth.
With its irresistible flavors and simple steps, this recipe for Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delightful addition to any home-cooked meal. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!
Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a shallow dish, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to make sure the coating sticks.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet, cooking until each side is golden and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per side).
- Once golden, transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked through.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, allowing it to simmer until it thickens slightly (about 3-5 minutes).
- Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over your crispy chicken and garnish with fresh parsley.
