Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is the perfect balance of crispy, golden-brown chicken with a rich, velvety garlic sauce. The chicken is perfectly coated in a Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, giving it a satisfying crunch, and it’s all brought together with a creamy, garlic-infused sauce that makes each bite absolutely irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how this recipe combines simple ingredients into something so indulgent and delicious. The crispy Parmesan crust on the chicken contrasts beautifully with the smooth, savory garlic sauce. It’s an easy dish that feels special enough for a dinner party but simple enough for a weeknight meal. Plus, it’s so versatile—whether you pair it with mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh salad, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Her’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• 4 small to medium chicken breasts (or 2 large, halved)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Crispy Coating:

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

For the 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)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

2. Make the Coating:
   In a shallow dish, combine ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese and ½ cup panko breadcrumbs. Press the mixture onto both sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring it sticks evenly.

3. Sear the Chicken:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

4. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
   In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about a minute until fragrant. Pour in the cream, then stir in the Italian seasoning or oregano. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook until it’s melted and smooth. If using, add the chopped spinach and cook for another 1-2 minutes until wilted.

5. Combine and Serve:
   Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the creamy garlic sauce over the top, and simmer for 1-2 minutes to heat through. Serve hot, optionally garnished with more Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the Parmesan is gluten-free.

• Dairy-Free: Swap the cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free Parmesan alternatives.

• Add Vegetables: For extra flavor, try adding mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even bell peppers to the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce creamy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more flavor and juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they’re fully cooked.

Is there a lighter version of this recipe?

Yes, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of cheese to make it lighter without sacrificing too much flavor.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can bread the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving for the best result.

What sides go well with this chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. I especially love it with a side of garlic bread.

Can I freeze leftovers?

It’s best to freeze the chicken separately from the sauce. The sauce may separate when reheated, so storing them separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months works best.

Conclusion

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a winning dish that’s sure to impress with its satisfying crunch and rich, creamy flavor. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s ideal for any night of the week, yet special enough to serve at gatherings. I love how versatile it is—whether served with pasta, vegetables, or a simple salad, it’s always a hit.

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