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
Scale
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
