Name: Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever craved that perfect combination of crispy chicken and luscious sauce, Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is about to become your new go-to recipe! Tender, juicy chicken is encased in a golden crust bursting with nutty Parmesan and savory Italian herbs, then drenched in a dreamy, garlicky cream sauce that begs to be mopped up with a hunk of bread. An absolute stunner for family dinners or date nights, this dish hits that rare spot where comfort meets elegance.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this chicken dish shine is its mix of simple, purposeful ingredients—each one playing a role in capturing the ultimate flavor and texture. If you want to elevate a humble chicken breast into something spectacular, don’t skip a single element below!

Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless breasts for quick, even cooking and a beautiful, hearty result.
Parmesan Cheese: This provides the signature nutty crust and a key punch of flavor—grate it fresh if possible!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These create a light, irresistibly crispy coating that holds up under sauce.
Garlic Powder: Infuses every bite with a mellow, aromatic layer that echoes the sauce’s real garlic.
Dried Italian Herbs: Oregano, basil, and thyme give your crust an herby lift to complement the creamy sauce.
Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings are essential for balance and depth—don’t hold back!
Eggs: A binding agent that ensures the crust sticks lovingly to the chicken.
Olive Oil: For searing the crust to golden, mouthwatering perfection before it hits the oven.
Butter: Adds richness to the sauce and enhances the overall decadence.
Fresh Garlic: Four cloves bring real-deal, bold garlicky flavor to the creamy sauce.
Heavy Cream: The silky backbone of your sauce, lending velvety texture and subtle sweetness.
Chicken Broth: Lifts the sauce with a savory note and keeps it from becoming too heavy.
Grated Parmesan (for Sauce): Adds body and umami to the garlicky creaminess—never too much Parmesan!
Fresh Parsley: An optional but recommended garnish for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Coating

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a hot, even roast later on. In a shallow bowl or dish, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. This flavorful blend is what transforms the chicken into that famous golden beauty.

Step 2: Whisk the Eggs

In a separate bowl, vigorously whisk your eggs until smooth and blended. The eggs are your “glue” for the coating, helping all those delicious crumbs and cheese stick to the chicken so you get that satisfying crunch in every bite.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Working with one piece at a time, dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s well coated. Then press it into the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, gently pressing to pack on all that flavor. Make sure both sides are well-encrusted for maximum crunch.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the coated chicken breasts and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re crispy and golden. Don’t rush this step—browning brings out tons of flavor in Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the entire skillet into your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The chicken is ready when it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally and the coating looks gloriously browned and crisp. Remove the chicken and keep it warm while you make the sauce.

Step 6: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

Turn the stove back to medium and, in the same pan (no need to wash!), melt your butter. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping up all those lovely browned bits from the bottom—these add deep flavor to your Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce.

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Simmer the sauce for 4-5 minutes, stirring now and then as it thickens. Once creamy and slightly reduced, stir in the last bit of grated Parmesan until smooth and glossy. Season to taste with salt and pepper, then marvel at the rich aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 8: Bring It All Together

Arrange your crispy chicken breasts on plates or a serving platter. Generously pour the creamy garlic sauce over each piece and shower with chopped fresh parsley. The hard part is resisting a taste before it gets to the table!

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

This dish loves a pop of color and freshness, so a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley just before serving works wonders. If you want extra flair, add a dusting of grated Parmesan or a hint of lemon zest to brighten up the flavors without overpowering the creamy, garlicky goodness.

Side Dishes

For the perfect complement, serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce alongside buttery mashed potatoes or al dente pasta to soak up every drop of sauce. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or broccolini, add balance and color to the plate, while a crisp green salad keeps things light and lively.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the chicken into medallions and fanning them out over a bed of pasta for a chic, bistro-style presentation. For a rustic family meal, bring the whole skillet to the table and let everyone dunk their pieces in the creamy garlic sauce. Add a few lemon wedges on the side for that irresistible finishing touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), let the chicken cool completely, then store each portion in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Kept separate from the sauce, the chicken will stay crispy for up to three days, while the sauce can be stored in a jar or cup alongside it.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooled chicken breasts in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, with parchment between each layer to prevent sticking. The creamy garlic sauce can also be frozen separately in a sealed container. Both components will keep well for up to two months—perfect for busy nights or meal prep!

Reheating

For best results, reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven until warmed through and the crust crisps up again. Warm the sauce gently on the stovetop, stirring to keep it smooth (add a splash of cream if needed). Combine just before serving and your Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce will taste nearly as fresh as day one.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully and stay juicy. Just adjust cooking times since thighs may take a few minutes longer in the oven. The process is identical and the thighs pick up the flavors beautifully.

What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?

Panko makes the coating extra crispy, but regular breadcrumbs can be substituted in a pinch. For even more crunch, try crushing some cornflakes or using crushed crackers—just be mindful of added salt in processed options.

How do I prevent my coating from falling off?

The key is patting the chicken dry before dredging, and pressing the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture firmly onto each piece. Letting the coated chicken rest for a few minutes before searing also improves the crust’s sticking power.

Can I make the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day ahead, cool it, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stovetop, stirring well—add a splash of cream if it’s too thick. Always assemble just before serving for best flavor.

Is Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce gluten-free?

As written, the recipe includes panko breadcrumbs which are made from wheat. For a gluten-free version, substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check every other ingredient. The result will still be delicious and every bit as satisfying!

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this recipe enough—every time I make it, friends and family ask for the secret. If you’re looking to impress or just craving a cozy comfort meal, Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce will absolutely hit the spot. Don’t be shy about doubling the recipe; everyone always wants seconds!

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 23 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delicious and comforting dish that combines crispy, cheesy chicken with a rich and flavorful sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
Coat the Chicken: Whisk the eggs in a bowl. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then coat it in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture.
Cook the Chicken: Cook the coated chicken in an oven-safe skillet until golden brown on both sides. Bake in the preheated oven until fully cooked.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic in butter. Add cream and broth, simmer until thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese.
Finish and Serve: Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the chicken and garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes

Make sure to use an oven-safe skillet for this recipe.
You can customize the herbs and spices in the coating to suit your taste preferences.
Adjust the thickness of the sauce by simmering for more or less time as needed.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking, Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian