Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Garlic Sauce/ Crispy, Juicy & Full of Flavor

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Garlic Sauce is a dish that combines crispy, golden chicken with a luscious creamy sauce. The parmesan coating gives each bite a satisfying crunch, while the garlic sauce brings a rich, savory flavor that feels like something you would order at a restaurant. Despite its gourmet appearance, this recipe is easy enough to make at home with simple ingredients. I love serving it with roasted vegetables or pasta, but it is just as delicious with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. One time, I tried swapping heavy cream for half-and-half in the sauce, and it still turned out silky and flavorful without being too heavy. Whether you are cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that looks and tastes far more impressive than the effort required.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts – The base of the dish, providing lean protein and a tender bite once coated and cooked.

Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated parmesan creates the crunchy, flavorful crust that sets this recipe apart.

Breadcrumbs – Combine with parmesan for a golden, crispy coating that holds up beautifully during cooking.

All-purpose flour – Helps the coating adhere to the chicken, ensuring even crispiness.

Eggs – Used as a binding agent, allowing the parmesan and breadcrumbs to stick to the chicken.

Olive oil – Provides a golden sear and adds richness to the crust.

Butter – Blended into the sauce for creaminess and depth of flavor.

Garlic – The star of the sauce, offering bold, aromatic notes that elevate the dish.

Heavy cream – Creates a luscious, velvety base for the garlic sauce.

Chicken broth – Adds savory flavor and prevents the sauce from being too heavy.

Italian seasoning – Brings together classic herbs that complement both the chicken and the sauce.

Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings that highlight the natural flavors of the dish.

Fresh parsley – Used as a garnish for freshness and color.

Directions

Start by preparing the chicken breasts—pound them to even thickness for consistent cooking. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a parmesan and breadcrumb mixture. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in egg, and coat generously in the parmesan-breadcrumb mix.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.

In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits for extra flavor. Stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning, letting the sauce simmer until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the garlic sauce over the top. Let it cook together for a minute so the flavors meld. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Essential Equipment

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

• Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
• large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
• Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
• Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
• Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
• knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
• Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes, so the dish is ready in 35 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce smooth. Avoid microwaving at high power, as it can make the chicken lose its crispiness. Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.

Variations and Customizations

Herb-Crusted Chicken
Add fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture for extra aroma.

Spicy Garlic Sauce
Stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick.

Cheesy Upgrade
Mix mozzarella or provolone with parmesan in the crust for extra cheesiness.

Lemon Garlic Sauce
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce for brightness and tang.

Low-Carb Version
Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly crust.

Mushroom Garlic Sauce
Sauté sliced mushrooms in butter before adding cream for an earthy variation.

Gluten-Free Crust
Swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers for those avoiding gluten.

Baked Parmesan Chicken
Instead of pan-frying, bake the chicken at 400°F for 20–25 minutes until crispy.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Use chicken tenders instead of breasts for a family-friendly option.

Extra Creamy Sauce
Add a touch of cream cheese to the sauce for an ultra-rich finish.

FAQs

Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes until crispy and cooked through.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness.

What type of parmesan is best?

Freshly grated parmesan melts and crisps better than pre-grated.

Can I make the sauce lighter?

Yes, substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk for heavy cream.

How do I keep the crust from falling off?

Press the coating firmly onto the chicken and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the chicken in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.

What sides go well with this dish?

Pasta, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad pair beautifully.

Can I freeze parmesan crusted chicken?

It is not recommended since the crust and sauce lose their texture.

How do I thicken the garlic sauce?

Let it simmer longer or stir in a little cornstarch slurry.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, add red pepper flakes to the crust or sauce for extra heat.

Conclusion

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Garlic Sauce is a dish that delivers elegance and comfort in every bite. The crisp parmesan coating perfectly complements the creamy garlic sauce, creating a meal that feels both indulgent and satisfying. Quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for entertaining, it is a versatile recipe you will want to keep on repeat. Whether you enjoy it with pasta, vegetables, or a simple salad, this dish will always bring restaurant-quality flavors to your table.

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