Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

There’s something undeniably magical about the aroma of Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce wafting through your kitchen. Imagine that golden, crispy exterior giving way to tender, juicy chicken, all while smothered in a luxurious creamy garlic sauce. Your taste buds are practically doing a happy dance just thinking about it. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a moment, an experience waiting to unfold.

Now, picture this: you invite your friends over for dinner, and as they take their first bite of this savory delight, their eyes widen in pure bliss. You can almost hear the collective “wow” echoing off the walls! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe brings everyone together and creates memories worth savoring.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Parmesan Crusted Chicken is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
  • The rich flavor profile combines savory cheese and garlic for an unforgettable taste experience
  • Visually stunning with its golden crust, this dish will impress anyone at your dinner table
  • Versatile enough to serve with pasta, rice, or veggies, it adapts effortlessly to any occasion

There was that one time I made this for my family reunion. My uncle Bob, who usually proclaims himself “the BBQ king,” went back for thirds! You could say my chicken had him questioning his grill skills—definitely a win in my book!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose 3-4 breasts depending on your crowd; more is always better when friends are around.

  • Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor; it makes all the difference.

  • Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the chicken that delightful crunch you crave; feel free to mix them with regular breadcrumbs if needed.

  • Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm cloves; nothing beats fresh garlic in flavor intensity.

  • Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce; don’t skimp on quality here—your taste buds will thank you.

  • Butter: For sautéing the garlic and adding depth to the creamy sauce; use unsalted for better control of seasoning.

  • Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): Essential staples that enhance every flavor; adjust according to your personal preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven ensures that chicken cooks evenly and develops a beautiful crust.

Prepare the Chicken Coating: In one bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. The mix should look like beach sand but smell way better—trust me!

Dip and Coat Chicken Breasts: Take each chicken breast and dip it into the breadcrumb mixture. Press firmly so it clings like an enthusiastic toddler holding onto their favorite toy.

Sear for Flavor: Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts once melted and sizzling. Sear them until they turn golden brown on both sides—about 3-4 minutes per side.

Bake Until Juicy Perfection: Transfer seared chicken to a baking dish and pop it in the oven for about 20 minutes or until cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Your kitchen will smell heavenly.

Create the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet used for chicken, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute. Then pour in heavy cream and stir until combined; let simmer gently until thickened.

This recipe not only fills your home with mouthwatering aromas but also delivers a meal that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to grab a plate!

Now grab your fork because dinner is served!

You Must Know

  • The secret to crispy chicken lies in a well-seasoned breadcrumb coating
  • Pair with creamy garlic sauce for a perfect balance of flavors
  • Remember, patience makes perfect; don’t rush the cooking process for ideal texture and taste

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping your chicken with seasonings, then sear it to lock in moisture before baking it until golden brown. Meanwhile, whip up that creamy garlic sauce to drizzle on top.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for eggplant or tofu for a vegetarian twist. You can also add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an extra flavor kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain that crispy exterior.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For optimal crunchiness, let the breaded chicken rest briefly before cooking
  • Use fresh garlic for the sauce to elevate its flavor
  • Don’t forget to keep an eye on your garlic sauce; it can go from perfect to burnt quickly!

Cooking this Parmesan Crusted Chicken became a family tradition after my cousin dived into my kitchen, declaring he was “the chicken whisperer.” Now, we all gather around when it’s on the menu.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before breading.

What’s the best way to ensure the chicken stays crispy?

Allow it to rest after frying, and avoid covering it while cooling.

Can I make the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just reheat gently before serving to keep its creaminess intact.

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Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce


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  • Author: Rachel Lawson
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a culinary delight that transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary dish. With its golden, crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior drenched in a rich garlic sauce, this recipe is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, it’s an experience that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and creates cherished memories around the dinner table.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
  3. Dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
  4. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides (about 3-4 minutes per side).
  5. Transfer chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  6. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add heavy cream and simmer until thickened.
  7. Serve chicken drizzled with creamy garlic sauce.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking/Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg
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About the author
Rachel Lawson
Hi, I’m Rachel, the heart and soul behind Cooking with Rachel. My journey into the culinary world began as a personal escape—turning simple ingredients into nourishing meals that bring comfort and joy. With a deep passion for wholesome cooking, I create recipes that balance flavor and well-being, proving that healthy eating can be both delicious and satisfying.

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