Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is one of those recipes that transforms ordinary chicken into something truly special. The golden, crispy Parmesan crust combined with the silky garlic cream sauce creates a restaurant-quality dish you can make at home in just 25 minutes. I’ve made this countless times for my family, and it never fails to impress.

I still remember the first time I made this dish on a busy Wednesday night. I was looking for something quick but impressive, and this recipe delivered on both fronts. The aroma of garlic and butter filling my kitchen while the chicken sizzled to golden perfection made me feel like a professional chef. What I love most is how the crispy coating stays crunchy even under that luscious creamy garlic sauce. This Parmesan crusted chicken has become my go-to for weeknight dinners when I want something comforting yet elegant. The thin cutlets cook quickly and evenly, and the creamy sauce comes together in minutes using the same pan.

What You’ll Need for This Crispy Parmesan Chicken

Before you start, gather your ingredients for the perfect balance of crunch and creaminess. I always recommend using freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture in both the crust and sauce.

• 4 thin chicken cutlets
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (I prefer panko for extra crunch)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for coating)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish

Pro tip: If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them to about 1/2 inch thickness for even cooking. I use a meat mallet between two sheets of plastic wrap to avoid mess.

Simple Steps to Make Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken

I prefer cooking the chicken over medium heat in a 12-inch skillet rather than high heat to ensure the crust gets golden without burning. Let me walk you through each step for foolproof results.

Step 1: Season the thin chicken cutlets generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This foundational seasoning is crucial for flavorful chicken.

Step 2: Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes. Place 1/2 cup flour in the first dish, beaten eggs in the second, and combine 1 cup breadcrumbs with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan in the third. Mix the breadcrumb mixture well so the Parmesan is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Dredge each chicken cutlet first in flour, shaking off excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off. Finally, press into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, coating both sides thoroughly. Press gently to help the coating adhere.

Step 4: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers but doesn’t smoke, carefully add the breaded chicken cutlets. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (check thin cutlets at 3 minutes to avoid overcooking). Transfer to a plate and let rest 2-3 minutes while you make the sauce.

Step 5: Using the same skillet (don’t wipe it out, those browned bits add flavor), melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and saute for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

Step 6: Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 1 minute, then add 1 cup heavy cream and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan. Whisk continuously and simmer for 3-4 minutes of active cooking until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Return the Parmesan crusted chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy garlic sauce over each piece. Let it warm through for 1-2 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme and serve immediately.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Crusted Chicken

The rich, creamy garlic sauce pairs beautifully with sides that can soak up every drop of that delicious sauce.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The ultimate comfort food pairing. The smooth, buttery potatoes complement the crispy chicken perfectly and absorb the garlic cream sauce wonderfully.

Buttered Pasta: A simple fettuccine or linguine tossed with butter and Parmesan creates an Italian-inspired meal. The pasta catches all that luscious sauce.

Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a lighter balance. The slight char and natural sweetness cut through the richness of the creamy sauce.

Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the indulgent Parmesan crusted chicken with creamy garlic sauce.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for mopping up every last bit of that irresistible garlic cream sauce. I love serving warm, toasted baguette slices on the side.

More Delicious Chicken Dinners to Try

This Parmesan crusted chicken pairs wonderfully with other easy weeknight favorites that bring bold flavors to the table. For another crispy chicken option with incredible sauce, try the Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Sauce, which features a similar golden coating technique. The Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites offer the same addictive flavors in bite-sized form, perfect for appetizers or quick dinners.

For those who love creamy chicken dishes, the Creamy Lemon Butter Chicken adds bright citrus notes that complement rich sauces beautifully, while Chicken and Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce transforms this same delicious garlic sauce into a complete bowl meal. The Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken brings sweet and savory balance that chicken lovers will appreciate.

How to Store and Reheat Your Leftover Chicken

Store leftover Parmesan crusted chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend storing the chicken and sauce separately if possible to maintain the crust’s texture.

For reheating, I prefer using the oven rather than the microwave. Preheat your oven to 350°F, place the chicken on a baking sheet, and warm for 10-12 minutes until heated through. This method helps restore some of the crust’s crispness. Reheat the sauce separately in a small saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream if it’s too thick.

Pro tip: While you can freeze the cooked chicken, I don’t recommend it as the breading tends to become soggy when thawed. This Parmesan crusted chicken tastes best fresh, so I suggest making only what you’ll eat within a few days.

Common Questions About This Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

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