Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Creamy Garlic Sauce

Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside this Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce turns simple weeknight ingredients into a dish that feels special and delivers pure comfort The creamy sauce perfectly complements the nutty Parmesan crust for a meal that is both easy and memorable

The first time I made this for a friend she asked for the recipe before dinner was even over It is now my go to dish whenever I want something a little extra without a lot of effort

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: provide lean protein and stay juicy inside the crust look for firm plump cuts
• All purpose flour: helps the cheesy coating stick and crisps up in the oven choose unbleached for best flavor
• Grated Parmesan cheese: infuses the crust with nutty richness Italian brands are ideal but any fresh Parmesan works well
• Garlic powder and onion powder: give the breading subtle depth be sure your spices are fresh for the boldest taste
• Salt and black pepper: seasons the crust use freshly cracked black pepper if possible
• Butter: is the base for the creamy sauce opt for unsalted to control seasoning
• Heavy cream: creates a velvety sauce with just the right richness use full fat for best results
• Fresh garlic cloves: add a punch of real flavor mince them finely for even distribution

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Chicken:

Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels for maximum coating adhesion then set aside while mixing the dredge

Mix Dry Coating:

In a shallow dish stir together flour Parmesan cheese garlic powder onion powder salt and black pepper until thoroughly combined to create an even breading mixture

Coat the Chicken:

Press each chicken breast firmly into the breading on all sides ensuring every part is evenly covered with the Parmesan mixture

Bake the Chicken:

Arrange breaded chicken on a parchment lined baking sheet for even browning Bake in a preheated oven at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit for fifteen to twenty minutes until the crust is golden and the internal temperature hits one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit

Make Creamy Garlic Sauce:

While chicken bakes melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat Add minced garlic and sauté for thirty seconds until fragrant Whisk in heavy cream a pinch of salt and black pepper then simmer the sauce gently for two to three minutes until it thickens slightly

Serve:

Transfer chicken to plates and spoon the warm creamy garlic sauce generously over the top Garnish with extra Parmesan if desired

Pin it

My favorite part of this recipe is the sauce I could eat it on just about anything I first served this at our anniversary dinner and my husband requests it every year now

Storage Tips

Leftover chicken keeps very well in the refrigerator for up to three days Store the sauce separately in a small container so it can be reheated gently and poured on just before serving For best results reheat chicken in a low oven to maintain its crisp exterior

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap grated Pecorino Romano for Parmesan if that is what you have on hand For a gluten free version use a gluten free flour blend in place of all purpose You can even make this with chicken thighs just adjust baking time to ensure they cook through

Serving Suggestions

This chicken shines with a side of buttery mashed potatoes steamed green beans or over a mound of pasta to catch all the sauce A sprinkle of extra fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon will make the plate feel restaurant worthy

Pin it

A Little History

Parmesan crusted dishes have roots in Italian and Italian American cuisine marrying the richness of cheese with crisp textures Cream sauces like this one are inspired by classic Roman pasta traditions though this creamy garlic version is a modern family adaptation

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure my chicken turns out crispy?

For the crispiest coating, press the Parmesan mixture firmly onto the chicken and bake on a parchment-lined sheet, avoiding overcrowding.

→ Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?

Grated Parmesan works best as it adheres easily and melts into a flavorful crust; avoid larger shreds for optimal texture.

→ Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can coat the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.

→ What sides pair well with this chicken?

Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a simple salad to complete the meal.

→ Can the creamy garlic sauce be made lighter?

For a lighter sauce, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, and use less butter if preferred.