Introduction
Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is one of those dinners that instantly feels comforting and satisfying. I like to make this recipe when I want something hearty and flavorful that still feels a little special. The chicken is coated in a Parmesan crust that bakes or pan-fries to a beautiful golden crisp, while the creamy garlic sauce adds richness and depth without overpowering the dish. Every bite offers contrast, crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and finished with a smooth, savory sauce. What I enjoy most about this recipe is how approachable it is. The ingredients are simple, the steps are straightforward, and the result feels restaurant-worthy. Whether you serve it with pasta, mashed potatoes, or vegetables, this crispy Parmesan chicken is a reliable, crowd-pleasing meal that works just as well for weeknights as it does for guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines crisp texture with creamy comfort in a way that feels indulgent but balanced. The Parmesan coating delivers bold flavor, while the garlic sauce ties everything together beautifully. It is easy to prepare and uses everyday ingredients, making it perfect for regular dinners or special occasions.
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Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce – Golden, Comforting, and Full of Flavor
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Crispy Parmesan chicken with creamy garlic sauce features golden breaded chicken cutlets topped with a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce for a comforting and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or panko
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Set up a dredging station with flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of Parmesan and breadcrumbs.
- Dredge chicken in flour, dip in eggs, then coat in Parmesan mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through; remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning; simmer until slightly thickened.
- Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best crispiness.
- Do not overcrowd the pan while frying.
- Serve with pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken Breasts
Chicken breasts provide a lean, tender base that cooks evenly and stays juicy under the crispy coating.
Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese adds salty, nutty flavor and creates a crisp crust when cooked.
Breadcrumbs
Breadcrumbs help form the crunchy exterior and balance the richness of the cheese.
Eggs
Eggs help the coating adhere evenly to the chicken.
Garlic
Garlic brings bold flavor to the creamy sauce and enhances the overall dish.
Butter
Butter adds richness and forms the base of the sauce.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream creates a smooth, velvety sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.
Chicken Broth
Chicken broth adds depth and keeps the sauce from becoming too heavy.
Italian Seasoning
Italian seasoning adds herbal warmth that complements the Parmesan.
Salt
Salt enhances all the flavors and seasons the chicken.
Black Pepper
Black pepper adds gentle heat and balance.
Olive Oil
Olive oil helps crisp the chicken and prevents sticking during cooking.
Directions
Begin by preparing the chicken. Season the chicken breasts lightly with salt and black pepper. In separate bowls, place beaten eggs and a mixture of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and Italian seasoning. Dip each chicken breast into the egg, then coat thoroughly in the Parmesan mixture.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and crispy on both sides and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic, cooking briefly until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and allow it to simmer slightly. Add the heavy cream and stir until the sauce thickens gently. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Return the chicken to the skillet or spoon the sauce over the chicken before serving. Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Equipment needed
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
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.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves four people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Variations and Customizations
Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is easy to adapt. You can bake the chicken instead of pan-frying for a lighter version. Add spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra texture and flavor. For a sharper bite, mix a small amount of Romano cheese with the Parmesan. You can also add lemon juice or zest to the sauce for brightness. This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dish provides protein from the chicken and calcium from the cheese, along with fats from the cream and butter. It is a rich, satisfying meal best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Even Thickness
Pound chicken evenly for consistent cooking.
Do Not Overcrowd
Cook chicken in batches to maintain crispness.
Low Heat Sauce
Simmer gently to avoid separating the cream.
Fresh Garlic
Use fresh garlic for best flavor.
FAQs
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, baking works well and reduces oil use.
What cheese works best for the crust?
Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best texture and flavor.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, thighs work well and stay very juicy.
Is the sauce very garlicky?
It is flavorful but balanced and adjustable.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but reheat gently to preserve texture.
Does this recipe freeze well?
The chicken freezes better than the sauce.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Cream is recommended for proper thickness.
What sides pair best with this dish?
Pasta, mashed potatoes, or vegetables pair well.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it is mild and comforting.
Can I add herbs on top?
Yes, parsley or basil add freshness.
Conclusion
Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines crunchy texture with rich, savory sauce. Easy to prepare and deeply satisfying, it is a recipe that delivers reliable results and timeless appeal, making it a perfect addition to any home cooking rotation.
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