Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the savory crunch of Parmesan and panko crumbs with a luscious and creamy garlic sauce. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a romantic evening at home, offering a gourmet touch without demanding too much time in the kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

This dish stands out for its succulent chicken coated in a golden, crispy crust that adds texture and flavor to each bite. The creamy garlic sauce takes it to another level, complementing the chicken beautifully. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it an accessible choice for both novice and experienced cooks. By making this recipe, you’ll impress your guests while enjoying a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to whip up.

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Ingredients

4 small–medium chicken breasts (or 2 large, halved)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup light cream or heavy cream
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning or oregano
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)

Directions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Make the Crust: In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs. Mix well to ensure they are evenly distributed.
Coat the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to ensure an even coating. Once coated, place the chicken in the skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
Bake the Chicken: Once seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce: While the chicken is baking, wipe the skillet clean and return it to the stovetop over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the cream, stirring continuously, and add the Italian seasoning or oregano. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
Add Spinach: If using, add the chopped spinach to the sauce and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Serve: Once the chicken is done, drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the top and serve immediately.

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

This mouthwatering dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. You can also serve it over a bed of pasta or rice, allowing the creamy sauce to coat the grains for an even more satisfying meal. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.

How to Store

Leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the crispiness of the crust. If you have leftover creamy garlic sauce, store it separately and use it within 2-3 days for the best quality.

Tips to Make

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs for a couple of hours before coating and cooking.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture or the sauce.
To ensure even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning and coating.

Variation

Try adding different herbs and spices to the crust for different flavor profiles. You can substitute chicken with fish or pork, adjusting cooking times accordingly. For a more decadent option, serve the chicken with a sun-dried tomato or mushroom variation of the creamy sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko will give you a lighter and crunchier texture.

2. Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to create the crust.

3. Can I make the creamy sauce dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.