Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Sauce

Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Sauce is one of those dinners that feels fancy but comes together quickly on busy weeknights. I love how the golden-brown crust on the chicken pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy garlic sauce that coats every bite. It’s restaurant-quality comfort food made right in your own kitchen.

I still remember the first time I made this recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed something quick but impressive. The moment I spooned that velvety garlic sauce over the crispy chicken, I knew this would become a regular in my dinner rotation. The chicken stays perfectly golden even after being topped with the creamy sauce, and the garlic flavor is bold without being overpowering. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this parmesan crusted chicken delivers every single time with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.

What You’ll Need to Make This Chicken

I always use fresh parmesan cheese for this recipe because it melts so much smoother than pre-grated varieties. The ingredient list is simple, but each component plays an important role in creating that perfect crispy exterior and creamy sauce.

• 4 small to medium chicken breasts (or 2 large halved, pounded to 1/2-inch even thickness)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup light cream or heavy cream (I prefer heavy cream for extra richness)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning or oregano
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional but adds nice color and nutrients)

Pro tip: Pat your chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels before seasoning. This simple step makes a huge difference in achieving that crispy, golden-brown exterior we’re after. If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even 1/2-inch thickness so they cook evenly.

How I Make This Crispy Chicken Dish

I recommend heating your 12-inch skillet until it’s nice and hot before adding the chicken. This ensures you get that beautiful golden crust right from the start.

Step 1: Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. If needed, pound chicken to even 1/2-inch thickness for consistent cooking. Don’t be shy with seasoning, as proper seasoning is key to flavorful chicken.

Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers slightly, which means it’s ready.

Step 3: Add the chicken breasts to the hot skillet without overcrowding. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden-brown and crispy, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they develop a golden crust and release easily from the pan without sticking. Remove the cooked chicken and set aside on a plate to rest.

Step 4: Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same pan. Saute for just 30 seconds, stirring constantly. Be careful not to let it burn or it will taste bitter.

Step 5: Pour in the cream, stirring continuously to incorporate any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These add amazing flavor to your sauce.

Step 6: Add the Italian seasoning and parmesan cheese to the cream, mixing until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and velvety. This takes about 1-2 minutes. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon and leave a trail when you run your finger through it.

Step 7: Stir in the chopped spinach if using and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until just wilted. The spinach adds a pop of color and balances the richness.

Step 8: Return the crispy chicken to the pan and spoon the creamy garlic sauce generously over the top. Simmer everything together for 1 minute so the flavors meld, then remove from heat. Let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving for juicier results.

Perfect Pairings for Your Parmesan Chicken

This Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Sauce pairs beautifully with sides that can soak up that incredible creamy sauce.

Pasta: Fettuccine or spaghetti works wonderfully because the long noodles catch all that garlicky goodness. The neutral flavor lets the chicken shine.

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the rich sauce and create the ultimate comfort food experience. The textures work perfectly together.

Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or carrots add freshness and a slight char that contrasts nicely with the creamy chicken. Plus, you get those important nutrients.

Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing element to your meal.

These are some of the best sides for parmesan crusted chicken that I’ve tried over the years.

More Chicken Dinners to Love

This Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Sauce pairs beautifully with other easy weeknight dinners that bring comfort and flavor to the table. For another creamy chicken dish with bold flavors, try the Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet which adds a spicy kick, or the elegant Creamy Lemon Butter Chicken that offers bright citrus notes alongside rich sauce.

When you’re craving more Italian-inspired chicken recipes, the Best Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a similar favorite, while the Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken adds a tangy twist to the classic parmesan crust. For heartier meals, serve this chicken alongside the Chicken and Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce for a complete dinner the whole family will love.

Keeping Your Chicken Fresh

Store any leftover Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delicious.

When reheating, I recommend using a skillet over low heat rather than the microwave. This helps preserve some of that crispy texture on the chicken. Add a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

Pro tip: If you want to freeze this dish, store the chicken and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop.

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