Name: Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Chicken:; 4 small–medium chicken breasts (or 2 large, halved); Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; For the Crispy Coating:; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup panko breadcrumbs; For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:; 3–4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup light cream or heavy cream; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning or oregano; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup chopped spinach (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The crispy, golden crust on the chicken combines beautifully with the creamy, garlicky sauce. It's a hearty meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying. The chicken is perfectly juicy on the inside, and the garlic sauce is rich and creamy with just the right amount of seasoning. This dish is simple to prepare, yet feels like a restaurant-quality meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

4 small–medium chicken breasts (or 2 large, halved)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Crispy Coating:

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup panko breadcrumbs

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

3–4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup light cream or heavy cream
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning or oregano
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup chopped spinach (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Make the Coating:
- In a shallow dish, mix the grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs.
- Press the mixture onto both sides of each chicken breast to ensure an even coating.
Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the coated chicken breasts and sear for about 3–4 minutes per side until a golden, crispy crust forms.
Prepare the Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Pour in the cream and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine.
- If using spinach, add it now and let it wilt into the sauce.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Finish Cooking:
- Cover the skillet and let the chicken cook through for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve:
- Plate the chicken and generously spoon the creamy garlic sauce over the top.
- Enjoy your delicious meal!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables: You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra flavor.
Use different cheese: If you prefer a stronger cheese flavor, swap the Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano.
Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce for a spicy twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

How do I make sure the chicken stays juicy?

To keep the chicken juicy, don’t overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) without going over.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately, then reheat and assemble when ready to serve. The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great in this recipe. They’ll be even juicier than chicken breasts.

What can I serve this with?

This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I freeze this dish?

You can freeze the chicken separately from the sauce. However, freezing the creamy garlic sauce might affect its texture. To reheat, thaw and gently heat on the stove, adding a little cream if needed.

How can I make the crust crispier?

For an extra crispy coating, double-coat the chicken: dip it in the Parmesan-panko mixture, then dip it back in a beaten egg and coat it again before searing.

Can I use heavy cream for the sauce?

Yes, heavy cream will give the sauce a richer texture, but light cream can also work if you prefer a lighter version.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Simmer the sauce on low heat and avoid boiling it. Stir occasionally to prevent it from separating.

Can I add garlic to the coating?

For an extra garlicky flavor, you can add garlic powder to the Parmesan-panko coating.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream substitute for the sauce.

Conclusion

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is an easy and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. With a perfectly crispy exterior and a rich, creamy sauce, it’s a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Try it today and enjoy the comfort of this savory, cheesy dish!