Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Crispy, golden-brown chicken topped with a luxurious creamy garlic sauce—this is the ultimate meal for anyone who loves comfort food! Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce gives you the perfect blend of textures and flavors. It’s fancy enough for a special dinner yet simple enough for a weeknight meal.

This recipe combines the savory crunch of parmesan-coated chicken with a silky, garlicky sauce that’s packed with flavor. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy home cooks.

Get your pans ready because we’re about to create something truly unforgettable!

Ingredients for Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious dish, along with a few suggested substitutions to suit your pantry and dietary needs:

For the Chicken:

  • 4 chicken cutlets (you can use chicken breast pounded thin or boneless thighs)
  • ½ cup grated parmesan (the freshly grated kind works best!)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (swap with panko for extra crunch)
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral cooking oil)

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic paste)
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • ½ cup chicken broth (swap with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan
  • Cracked black pepper and fresh parsley for garnish

These simple ingredients will deliver incredible results. Now, let’s get cooking!

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Follow these step-by-step instructions to whip up a meal that’s equal parts indulgent and impressive:

  1. Prepare the Chicken:

Season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. Dip each cutlet in the beaten egg, then coat evenly in the parmesan and breadcrumb mix.

  1. Cook the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

  1. Make the Garlic Sauce:

Lower the heat and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

  1. Add the Cream & Parmesan:

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.

  1. Combine & Serve:

Place the chicken cutlets back into the skillet, spooning the garlic sauce over them. Garnish with cracked black pepper and freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm.

Time-saving tip: While the chicken cooks, you can start prepping your side dishes to maximize efficiency!

Health Benefits of Parmesan Crusted Chicken

While this dish is undoubtedly indulgent, it brings several nutritional benefits worthy of a healthy lifestyle:

  1. High in Protein

Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, vital for muscle repair and keeping you full longer.

  1. Rich in Calcium

Parmesan cheese delivers a calcium boost that supports strong bones and teeth.

  1. Garlic Power

Garlic isn’t just flavorful; it’s also a natural immune-booster and known to reduce inflammation.

Combine this meal with a side of roasted veggies or a crisp salad for added nutrients and balance.

Serving Suggestions for Your Parmesan Chicken with Sauce

Pair this stunning dish with equally delicious sides and drinks to complete your meal. Here are some ideas:

  • Sides:

Try creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, roasted asparagus, or garlic bread.

  • Drinks:

A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly. For non-alcoholic options, opt for sparkling water infused with lemon or basil.

  • Presentation Tips:

For a restaurant-style touch, plate the chicken over the mashed potatoes, spoon the sauce around, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Recipe Variations

Customizing this recipe is part of the fun. Here are a few exciting twists:

  • Keto-Friendly Version

Swap the breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour to reduce carbs while keeping the crunch.

  • Herb-Crusted Chicken

Add dried oregano, thyme, or parsley to the breadcrumb mix for extra flavor.

  • Spicy Kick

Stir a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce for a bit of heat.

  • Vegetarian Option

Replace chicken with eggplant or zucchini slices for a fantastic meat-free alternative.

Tips & Tricks for Perfecting the Dish

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches to get an evenly crispy crust. Crowding can lead to steaming rather than searing.
  • Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use freshly grated parmesan and real garlic for the best flavors.
  • Thicker Sauce? Simmer the sauce a little longer to achieve your desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Tips

  • Storage: Any leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
  • Freezing: While the sauce is best fresh, the breaded chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 400°F until hot and crispy.

Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season the chicken and sauce; it’s essential for bringing out the flavors.
  • Overcooking the Chicken: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), but doesn’t go beyond that.
  • Burning the Garlic: Garlic can go from golden to bitter quickly, so keep an eye on it and adjust heat as necessary.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Crispy, golden-browned parmesan chicken cutlets smothered in a silky garlic cream sauce—pure comfort in every bite!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main
Cuisine Comfort Food, Italian-Inspired
Servings 4
Calories 470 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 chicken cutlets
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg beaten
  • salt & pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for frying
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan for sauce
  • cracked black pepper & chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Bread the chicken cutlets by dipping in beaten egg, then coating in a mixture of parmesan and breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Step 2: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken cutlets 3–4 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  • Step 3: In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add chicken broth and cream. Simmer until slightly thickened. Stir in parmesan until melted and smooth.
  • Step 4: Return chicken to the pan or spoon the creamy garlic sauce over the plated chicken. Garnish with parsley and cracked pepper.

Notes

Serve with mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a full meal. For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 470kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 36gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 135mgSodium: 580mgPotassium: 510mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg
Keyword creamy garlic sauce chicken, easy chicken dinner, parmesan crusted chicken

FAQ Section

Can I use pre-grated parmesan cheese?

Yes, but freshly grated parmesan cheese will deliver superior flavor and better melting properties.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can bread and sear the chicken a few hours earlier. Store it in the fridge, then make the sauce and reheat just before serving.

Make This Recipe Tonight!

There’s nothing quite like the combination of crispy chicken and creamy garlic sauce. Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is simple enough for beginners yet satisfying for seasoned cooks.

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