There’s nothing quite like the moment you first slice into a perfectly cooked chicken breast, revealing a tender, juicy interior. As you take that first bite of my Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce, the delightful crunch gives way to a savory explosion of flavors that dances on your palate. With the rich aroma of garlic and the nutty scent of Parmesan wafting through the kitchen, you’ll know you’ve created something truly special.
This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings families together, especially on those busy weeknights when dinner seems like a daunting task. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this easy, family-friendly recipe that will surely become a favorite around your dinner table, banishing fast food cravings to the past. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a homemade feast, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the perfect answer to any mealtime dilemma. Let’s dive into the recipe and transform your dinner into a delicious celebration!
Why Will You Love Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Decadent Flavor: The rich flavors of Parmesan cheese combined with a creamy garlic sauce create a delightful experience that embraces all your senses.
Quick Prep Time: In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a scrumptious meal on the table, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Family Favorite: This recipe is designed to please every palate, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds.
Versatile Dish: Pair it with a fresh salad, creamy mashed potatoes, or your favorite vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Make-Ahead Option: Bread the chicken ahead of time, making it even easier to serve when you’re pressed for time.
Gluten-Free Adaptable: With a simple swap for gluten-free flour, everyone can enjoy this comforting dish!
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – 2 pieces; the star of the dish, providing tender protein when cooked perfectly.
• All-Purpose Flour – 1/2 cup; creates the necessary base for the crispy coating; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
For the Breading
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – 1/4 cup; lends that iconic crunchy crust and rich flavor; try Pecorino Romano for a bolder taste!
• Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon; infuses deep flavor into the breading, elevating the dish.
• Onion Powder – 1/2 teaspoon; complements the savory profile of the chicken.
• Salt – 1/4 teaspoon + 1/4 teaspoon for the sauce; essential seasoning to enhance flavors; adjust to suit your taste.
• Black Pepper – 1/8 teaspoon + 1/8 teaspoon for the sauce; adds just the right kick; feel free to adjust for your spice preference.
For the Sauce
• Butter – 1/2 cup, divided; brings richness to both the chicken and the sauce, ensuring a deliciously creamy experience.
• Heavy Cream – 1/4 cup; gives the sauce its luscious texture; substitute with half-and-half or coconut cream for lighter or dairy-free options.
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced; fresh garlic for that robust flavor, taking the sauce to the next level!
Dive into this delightful dish, and let the Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce take center stage at your dinner table!
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken
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Flatten Chicken: Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to an even 1-inch thickness. This ensures they cook uniformly and stay juicy during cooking.
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Prepare Breading: Set out two separate bowls: one with flour and the other with a combination of grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This makes for an easy breading process!
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Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off the excess, and then press it into the cheesy mixture. Make sure to coat each piece thoroughly for that irresistible crispy crust.
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Cook Chicken: In a skillet, heat 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken and sear for 5–7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. This step creates that beautiful crust we all love!
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Make Garlic Sauce: Using the same skillet, melt the remaining 1/4 cup of butter. Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant, then stir in the heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Simmer briefly to blend the flavors into a creamy garlic sauce.
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Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the luscious sauce and spoon it generously over the top. Let it simmer for an additional minute so the flavors meld beautifully together.
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Serve: Plate your Parmesan crusted chicken and drizzle extra sauce over it. This dish is ready to be enjoyed, so gather your loved ones around the table!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce?
Looking to create an unforgettable dining experience? Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that complement every bite of this flavorful dish.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky and buttery, these mashed potatoes are the perfect canvas for the savory garlic sauce to adorn.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken, balancing out the meal beautifully.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli provides a pop of color and nutritious crunch, making each bite wholesome and satisfying.
- Garlic Toast: Savory garlic bread is an ideal side to soak up the creamy sauce, whether enjoyed as an appetizer or alongside the main dish.
- Sauteed Zucchini: Tender zucchini, lightly sautéed with olive oil and herbs, brings summer flavors and a light touch to the meal.
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio enhances the dish’s flavors, adding a touch of sophistication to your table.
- Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate, rounding off your meal on a light, zesty note.
- Risotto: Creamy risotto can elevate your dinner experience, adding a luxurious touch and a delightful chew that pairs well with the chicken.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Variations
Transform your dish to suit your taste and dietary needs with these inviting ideas!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to make this dish accessible for everyone.
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Herb-Infused: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley or basil to the creamy sauce for a pop of color and flavor.
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Zesty Twist: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of lemon zest into the sauce to brighten the overall flavor profile, creating a refreshing contrast.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes into the sauce for a hint of heat that elevates the creamy experience.
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Cheese Variation: Swap grated Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a bolder, saltier flavor that pairs wonderfully with garlic.
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Creamy Alternatives: For a lighter option, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or use coconut cream for a dairy-free version that remains rich and tasty.
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Veggie Boost: Sauté spinach or mushrooms with the garlic to enhance the sauce, adding texture and nutrition to your dish.
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Baked Version: Instead of pan-searing, bake the breaded chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes for an effortlessly crispy finish while reducing fat.
Storage Tips for Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken is cooled before sealing to retain its moisture and crispness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken without the sauce in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore its delicious crunch. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the crust soggy.
Serving: Consider reheating the creamy garlic sauce separately and drizzling it over the chicken before serving for an extra touch of flavor!
Make Ahead Options
These Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bread the chicken up to 24 hours in advance by coating it in flour and the Parmesan mixture, then placing it on a parchment-lined baking sheet in the refrigerator. This keeps the crust crispy, as the shorter time helps prevent moisture build-up. The garlic sauce can also be made up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, just cook the breaded chicken, warm up the sauce, and combine them for an effortless, restaurant-quality dinner that saves you precious time during busy weeknights.
Tips for the Best Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Even Thickness: Ensure chicken is pounded evenly to promote uniform cooking, preventing dry or undercooked areas.
Crispy Coating: Handle the breaded chicken gently to avoid moisture contact, which can lead to sogginess before frying.
Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet; this ensures the chicken gets that golden sear rather than steaming in its juices.
Substitution Savvy: For a gluten-free version, swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour, ensuring everyone can relish this Parmesan crusted chicken.
Flavor Boost: Don’t skip the sautéing step for the garlic in the sauce; this enhances its flavor and aroma in the dish.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe chicken?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, you want to ensure it’s fresh and of high quality. Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are pink in color without any dark spots or a strong odor. They should feel firm to the touch and have a smooth surface. Trust your instincts – if something feels off, it’s better to choose another cut!
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Very! You can store leftovers of your Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled completely before sealing it to maintain its moisture and prevent it from getting dry.
Can I freeze Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Absolutely! If you want to save your Parmesan Crusted Chicken for later, it’s best to freeze it without the sauce. Wrap the cooled chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It’ll stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore its wonderful crispiness.
What should I do if my chicken is not cooking evenly?
The more the merrier! To ensure even cooking, it’s crucial to pound your chicken to an even thickness of about 1 inch before breading. If you find that the chicken is browning too quickly on one side, lower your heat slightly and cover the skillet with a lid. This helps cook the chicken all the way through while keeping it juicy. Also, avoid overcrowding the skillet to allow for proper air circulation when searing.
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Absolutely! If you’re catering to someone with gluten sensitivities, you can swap out the all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour without losing the airy and crispy coating. Additionally, for those avoiding dairy, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream, which will still yield a rich sauce. Always double-check with guests for any allergies before serving!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Very! To save time, you can bread the chicken earlier in the day, store it in the refrigerator, and cook it right before serving. This method keeps the chicken moist and flavorful while minimizing preparation stress on busy weeknights. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking!
Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Flatten chicken using a meat mallet to an even 1-inch thickness.
- Set out two bowls: one with flour and another with the cheese mixture.
- Dredge chicken in flour, then press into the cheesy mixture, coating thoroughly.
- Heat 1/4 cup butter in a skillet and sear chicken for 5–7 minutes on each side.
- Melt the remaining butter in the same skillet, sauté minced garlic, then stir in heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
- Return chicken to the skillet with the sauce and let it simmer for a minute.
- Plate the chicken and drizzle extra sauce on top before serving.