Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce
When you want a dinner that’s equal parts crispy, creamy, and comforting, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce delivers big flavor. Juicy chicken breasts are coated in a Parmesan breadcrumb crust, pan-fried to golden perfection, then topped with a silky garlic cream sauce that ties the whole dish together.
It’s perfect for weeknight meals yet elegant enough to serve for guests — especially when paired with pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & juicy: Golden Parmesan crust seals in moisture.
- Creamy garlic sauce: Adds richness and flavor depth.
- Versatile: Serve with pasta, rice, or veggies.
- Restaurant-quality: Looks impressive but uses simple ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness.
- In a shallow dish, mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast into beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly in breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Pan-fry chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F / 74°C internal temp).
- Remove from skillet and keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth, then heavy cream.
- Add Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer until sauce thickens.
Step 4: Serve
Place chicken on plates or a serving dish. Spoon creamy garlic sauce over the top and garnish with parsley. Serve hot.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan — cook chicken in batches if needed for even browning.
- Thicker sauce? Simmer longer or add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.
- Healthier option: Bake chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes instead of frying.
Variations
- Lemon Garlic Sauce: Add 2 tablespoons lemon juice and zest for brightness.
- Spicy Kick: Stir red pepper flakes into the sauce.
- Mushroom Garlic Sauce: Add sautéed mushrooms for earthy flavor.
- Low-Carb Version: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
Why This Recipe Works
The crisp Parmesan crust delivers crunch and flavor while keeping the chicken juicy inside. The creamy garlic sauce adds richness and ties the whole dish together with a velvety finish. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’re eating out at a fancy Italian restaurant — without leaving your kitchen.
Crispy, creamy, and utterly delicious — this Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce will become a new family favorite.
