Name: Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness (about 6–8 ounces each)); 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided (1/2 cup for coating, 1/2 cup for sauce)); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko for extra crunch); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt (divided (adjust to taste)); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (divided); 2 pieces eggs (beaten); 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sauce); 4 cloves garlic (minced (about 1 tablespoon)); 1 cup heavy cream (room temperature); Salt and pepper to taste (for final seasoning); Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

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Creamy, crispy, and utterly comforting — this Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is the kind of weeknight hero that makes everyone at the table smile. With a crunchy Parmesan-breadcrumb crust and a silky garlic-parmesan cream sauce, it feels fancy but comes together in a flash. Fun fact: many home cooks consider this dish a shortcut to restaurant-style comfort without the long wait. If you love quick, satisfying dinners that taste like effort, this is your new go-to.

This recipe shines because it’s simple to prepare, comes together quickly, and delights picky eaters and foodies alike. If you enjoy rich, saucy chicken meals, you might also like this garlic butter sausage bites with creamy Parmesan pasta for another cozy dinner idea. Let’s get cooking — your family is about to discover a new favorite.

What is Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce?

What’s in a name? Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce spells out the best parts: a golden, cheesy crust on tender chicken, smothered in a luscious garlic cream. Ever wonder who decided to marry crispy breadcrumbs and velvety sauce? Probably someone who loved texture and convenience — and maybe wanted to impress without a lot of fuss. Does that make it romantic? Maybe — and that’s why people say “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Who can resist? Try it and see if it doesn’t win hearts at your table.

Why You’ll Love This:

First, the main highlight: the contrast of a crunchy Parmesan crust with a smooth, garlicky cream sauce creates a mouthfeel that’s both comforting and exciting. Second, making this at home saves money compared to takeout or dining out while delivering fresher flavors and customizable seasoning. Third, the toppings and finishing touches — extra grated Parmesan and bright parsley — lift the dish visually and taste-wise. If you enjoy hearty, saucy chicken, you might also enjoy this creamy chicken pasta with bacon for another indulgent option. Ready to make something deliciously simple? Let’s do it.

How to Make:

Quick Overview

This recipe is easy and satisfying: a quick breading step, a short pan-fry for a golden crust, and a fast stovetop cream sauce. You’ll get crisp edges, juicy meat, and a rich, silky sauce in about 30 to 35 minutes total. Prep is minimal and the technique is beginner-friendly.

Approximate time
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 20–25 minutes
Total: 30–35 minutes

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts — pounded to even thickness (about 6–8 ounces each)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese — divided (1/2 cup for coating, 1/2 cup for sauce)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs — plain or panko for extra crunch
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt — divided (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper — divided
2 eggs — beaten
2 tablespoons olive oil — for frying
2 tablespoons unsalted butter — for sauce
4 cloves garlic — minced (about 1 tablespoon)
1 cup heavy cream — room temperature
Salt and pepper to taste — for final seasoning
Fresh parsley — chopped, for garnish

Directions

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch) using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Season lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper so the meat is ready to take the coating.
In a shallow bowl, mix 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper until well combined. In a separate bowl, beat the 2 eggs until smooth.
Dip each chicken breast in the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off, then press the chicken into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture. Coat thoroughly and press gently so the crust adheres well.
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Flip carefully to keep the crust intact; cook in batches if needed so the pan isn’t crowded.
While the chicken rests, make the creamy garlic sauce. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 4 to 5 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Plate the chicken and spoon the creamy garlic sauce generously over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed vegetables.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

What to Serve With

Creamy mashed potatoes — soak up the garlicky sauce.
Buttered linguine or spaghetti — for a classic pasta-and-chicken combo.
Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus — add a bright, crisp contrast.
A crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette — balances richness with acidity.
A glass of chilled Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir — pair by preference.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Pound evenly: Ensures even cooking so the crust doesn’t burn before the center is cooked.
Use panko for extra crunch: Swap plain breadcrumbs for panko if you prefer a lighter, airier crust.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches so the chicken gets a true sear and stays crispy.
Taste the sauce: Parmesan varies in saltiness — season the sauce after adding cheese.
Make ahead: You can make the sauce ahead and reheat gently; cook chicken right before serving for best texture.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce and chicken separate if possible to preserve crustiness.

Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken (without sauce) in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat chicken in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes to restore crispiness. Warm the sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring to combine. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust crisp.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes. Boneless, skinless thighs will work and stay juicier. Adjust cooking time slightly — thighs may need a couple more minutes depending on thickness.

Is there a lighter substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a little cornstarch for thickness, but the sauce will be less rich.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F for 18–22 minutes on a greased sheet until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, then finish under the broiler for a minute to crisp the crust.

How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
For a thicker sauce, simmer a few extra minutes or stir in a small slurry of cornstarch and water. For a thinner sauce, add a splash of chicken broth or more cream.

Can this be made dairy-free?
This version relies on dairy for the crust and sauce, but you can experiment with dairy-free Parmesan alternatives and coconut cream for a different flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is proof that easy weeknight cooking can be luxurious and crowd-pleasing. Crisp, cheesy crust meets a smooth garlic cream that turns a simple chicken breast into a memorable meal. It’s simple, quick, and perfect for family dinners or serving guests without stress. For helpful variations and inspiration, check out this take on the dish at Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken • Salt & Lavender and another rich version at Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken | Gimme Delicious. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite.