If you’re craving something that’s absolutely bursting with flavor yet surprisingly simple to whip up, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is your new go-to dinner. Imagine tender, golden-brown chicken cutlets enveloped in a crisp Parmesan coating, swimming in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce that’s both indulgent and comforting. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy enough for guests but effortless enough for a weeknight, and every bite offers a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and crispy textures that will have you coming back for seconds and thirds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this dish begins with a handful of everyday ingredients, each playing a key role in building those layers of irresistible flavor and texture. From the sharp nuttiness of Parmesan to the rich creaminess of butter and cream, these components come together effortlessly to create something truly special in your kitchen.
- Chicken breasts: Sliced into thin cutlets for quick, even cooking and a tender bite every time.
- All-purpose flour: Acts as a light coating base to help the Parmesan stick and achieve that delightful crust.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and a crunchy golden crust packed with umami goodness.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: These powdered spices deepen the flavor of the crust without overpowering the chicken.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the rich, creamy sauce.
- Butter: Creates a silky base in the pan that browns the crust perfectly and enriches the garlic sauce.
- Heavy cream (or half-and-half): Makes the sauce decadently creamy while balancing the savory notes.
- Fresh garlic: Minced and sautéed for a fragrant, mouthwatering garlic punch in the sauce.
- Optional garnishes – extra Parmesan and fresh parsley: For that final touch of flavor and color that elevates the dish beautifully.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets
Start by slicing the chicken breasts horizontally so you end up with four thin cutlets. This step is key because thinner pieces cook faster and get nicely golden without drying out. Patting them dry with paper towels helps the coating stick better and ensures a crisp crust.
Step 2: Make the Parmesan Flour Coating
Mix the flour, freshly grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. This blend is the secret behind the tasty crust – the Parmesan melts slightly yet keeps a satisfying crunch, while the spices build complexity in every bite.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Press each cutlet firmly into the Parmesan-flour mixture, making sure both sides are thoroughly coated. Be gentle but thorough, and shake off any excess so the crust doesn’t clump or burn during cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the coated chicken cutlets and cook them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a gorgeous golden crust and are cooked through. Then transfer the chicken to a warm plate to rest.
Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce
Using the same skillet is essential as it allows you to deglaze the browned bits left behind. Add minced garlic and sauté just 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn, as that will turn the sauce bitter.
Step 6: Finish the Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, sprinkle in salt and pepper, and stir well while scraping up all those flavorful brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens into a silky, creamy finish.
Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet and spoon the creamy garlic sauce generously over the top. Warm everything together for about a minute to marry the flavors, then you’re ready to serve this masterpiece.
How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra freshly grated Parmesan adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness, and a handful of chopped parsley brings a fresh, vibrant pop of green and a subtle herbaceous note that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish shines alongside simple sides like buttery mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up every last bit of sauce. For a lighter option, pair it with steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad to balance richness with fresh crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, arrange the cutlets overlapping slightly on a warmed platter, then drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over them. Add a few lemon wedges for an optional bright zest that guests can squeeze over, giving a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping the sauce separate from the chicken helps maintain the crust’s texture when reheating.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken cutlets without sauce in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Freeze the sauce separately in a small container. Both can be kept frozen for up to two months.
Reheating
To reheat without sacrificing the crust’s crunch, warm chicken cutlets in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10 minutes. Gently warm the creamy garlic sauce on the stovetop or microwave, then pour it over the chicken before serving.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work well but expect a slightly different texture and flavor. They are juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked, but you may want to adjust cooking time accordingly.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the creamy garlic sauce?
Yes! Swap out the butter for a dairy-free margarine and use full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream substitute instead of heavy cream to keep the sauce rich and creamy without dairy.
How can I make the crust extra crispy?
Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-grated, and avoid overcrowding the pan while cooking. Also, make sure the chicken cutlets are dry before coating and use medium heat to brown evenly without burning.
Can I prepare this dish ahead for a dinner party?
You can prep the chicken and sauce separately a few hours ahead, then quickly reheat and combine just before serving. This way, the crust stays crisp, and the sauce tastes fresh and creamy.
What wine pairs well with Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe?
A crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio complements the rich, creamy sauce beautifully without overwhelming the delicate flavor of the chicken.
Final Thoughts
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is truly a game changer in the weeknight dinner lineup. It’s lovingly simple, utterly delicious, and always impresses whether it’s a family meal or an intimate gathering. Give it a try—you’ll find it quickly becomes one of those cherished recipes you want to share with everyone you know!
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Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a quick and delicious dish featuring tender chicken cutlets coated in a flavorful Parmesan and herb mixture, pan-fried to golden perfection, and served with a rich, creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe balances crispy textures and smooth, savory flavors for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Cutlets and Coating
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half horizontally to create 4 cutlets)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Cutlets: Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well.
- Make the Coating Mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Coat the Chicken: Press each chicken cutlet into the Parmesan-flour mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated. Shake off any excess coating to avoid clumping during cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the coated chicken cutlets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm while preparing the sauce.
- Sauté Garlic: Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Cream and Season: Pour in the heavy cream along with salt and black pepper. Stir and scrape up the browned bits from the skillet bottom to incorporate the rich flavors into the sauce.
- Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens and becomes creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken cutlets to the skillet and spoon the creamy garlic sauce over the top. Heat for an additional minute to blend the flavors together.
- Serve: Serve the Parmesan crusted chicken hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired for an added burst of flavor and color.
Notes
- For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Make sure to pat chicken dry before coating to help the mixture adhere better.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Do not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness but can be omitted if unavailable.
