Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect balance of crispy and creamy. The Parmesan crust on the chicken adds a delightful crunch, while the creamy garlic sauce brings a comforting and savory flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. It’s an easy dish to prepare but feels gourmet, making it ideal for any occasion. The creamy garlic sauce can be used for more than just chicken—it’s perfect for drizzling over pasta or roasted vegetables as well!

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 eggs, beaten
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter

For the creamy garlic sauce:

1 tablespoon butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

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

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is coated evenly, then dredge the chicken in the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to coat well.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the coated chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
While the chicken bakes, prepare the creamy garlic sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Add the heavy cream to the pan and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and pour the creamy garlic sauce over the top. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Chicken Thighs: Swap out chicken breasts for bone-in, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
Add Vegetables: Serve the chicken with sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or a side salad for added freshness.
Herb Twist: Add fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary to the crust for extra flavor.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the creamy garlic sauce for a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. For the creamy garlic sauce, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to thin it out if needed.

FAQs

How do I make sure the chicken stays crispy?

To keep the chicken crispy, make sure to use panko breadcrumbs and coat the chicken thoroughly. Also, ensure that the oil and butter are hot before adding the chicken to the pan.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko will give you a lighter and crispier texture.

How can I make this recipe low-carb?

For a low-carb version, use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs. You can also skip the breadcrumbs altogether and use a simple Parmesan crust.

Can I use a non-stick pan for this recipe?

Yes, a non-stick pan can work well, but be careful not to overcook the chicken as it can stick if the pan is too hot.

What should I serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

You can serve this dish with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Can I prepare the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stovetop before serving.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes to the creamy garlic sauce or sprinkle some cayenne pepper over the chicken before cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. Just store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Can I use another type of cheese in the crust?

Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like Asiago, Romano, or even a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella for a different flavor.

Conclusion

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a rich and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. The crispy chicken paired with the creamy garlic sauce creates a delightful balance of textures and flavors that are perfect for any meal. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.