Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting, the Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is going to become your new go-to. This dish brings together crispy, golden Parmesan-coated chicken breasts with a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce that hugs every bite. The perfect blend of crunchy texture and luscious flavor makes it a family favorite and a fantastic crowd-pleaser for dinner parties or cozy weeknights alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of simple, quality ingredients is all it takes to create this incredible meal. Each one plays a crucial role—from the savory punch of Parmesan and garlic to the creamy sauce that ties everything together beautifully.
- Chicken breasts: Choose small to medium breasts or halved larger ones for even cooking and juiciness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavor of the chicken.
- Olive oil: This is your searing hero, providing a crisp, golden crust without overpowering the dish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, sharp kick and helps form the irresistible crust.
- Panko breadcrumbs: Give extra crunch and lightness compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Bring a fragrant, savory depth that’s the soul of the creamy garlic sauce.
- Light or heavy cream: Creates the luscious, silky sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
- Italian seasoning or oregano: Adds herbal brightness and complexity to the sauce.
- Spinach, chopped (optional): For a pop of color and a bit of earthy freshness that balances the richness.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This simple step is crucial to ensure each bite bursts with flavor beneath that crispy crust.
Step 2: Make the Coating
Combine the grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. This mixture is your key to a golden, crunchy exterior. Coat each piece of chicken thoroughly, pressing gently so the crust sticks well.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the coated chicken breasts. Sear them until they develop a deep, golden crust on one side before flipping. This process seals in the juices and builds that signature texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Then add the cream, Italian seasoning, chopped spinach if using, and the additional Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously as the sauce simmers, allowing it to thicken into a rich, creamy coating that’s bursting with flavor.
Step 5: Finish Cooking
Return the chicken to the skillet, cover it, and let it cook gently in the creamy garlic sauce until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This melds the flavors beautifully while ensuring the chicken stays tender and juicy.
Step 6: Plate and Serve
Slide the chicken onto plates and spoon generous amounts of the creamy garlic sauce over the top. The sauce’s smooth, cheesy richness paired with the crispy crust will have everyone asking for seconds.
How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil add a fresh, vibrant touch that cuts through the richness. A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan on top also provides an appealing finish and an extra boost of flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light sides like garlic mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp garden salad. These options balance the creamy sauce and crispy chicken nicely without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special dinner, serve the Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe on a bed of al dente pasta or creamy risotto to soak up every drop of the sauce. You can also layer it on top of sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a colorful, textured plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen when rested, making for delicious next-day meals.
Freezing
If you want to keep portions longer, freeze the chicken and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. This prevents sauce separation and keeps the crust as crisp as possible after reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of cream or water can refresh the sauce’s texture, while reheating in a covered pan helps keep the chicken tender.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs remain juicy and flavorful; just adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is it necessary to use panko breadcrumbs?
Panko breadcrumbs are preferred for their light, crispy texture, but you can substitute regular breadcrumbs in a pinch—just expect slightly less crunch.
Can I make the sauce dairy-free?
Yes, using coconut cream or cashew cream can provide a creamy texture, though the flavor will naturally differ from the traditional Parmesan-based sauce.
How do I ensure the crust stays crispy?
Sear the chicken well before adding the sauce, and avoid overcrowding the pan. For extra crispiness, you can briefly broil the chicken after cooking.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio complements the creamy garlic sauce perfectly, balancing richness with refreshing acidity.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend trying the Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe enough—it’s a comforting, flavorful dish that feels a bit special yet is surprisingly simple to pull off. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing guests, this recipe promises a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that’s truly unforgettable.
Print
Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a deliciously crispy and creamy dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are coated with a crunchy Parmesan and panko crust, seared to golden perfection, and then smothered in a rich, garlicky cream sauce infused with Italian herbs and optionally fresh spinach. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe offers a satisfying balance of textures and bold flavors that will impress your family or dinner guests.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 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
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 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)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly on both sides with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Make the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. Dredge each chicken breast in this mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crust all over.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken breasts and cook until the crust turns golden brown and crispy on one side, about 3-4 minutes. Flip and sear the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the cream and add Italian seasoning. Stir in the chopped spinach if using, then sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer gently, stirring until it thickens slightly.
- Finish Cooking: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Transfer the chicken to plates and generously spoon the creamy garlic sauce over the top. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute light cream with heavy cream for a richer sauce.
- Adding spinach is optional but adds a nice color and nutritional boost.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- For a crispier crust, broil the chicken for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking if desired.
- Use fresh grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture in the crust and sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
