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Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce

A savory dish featuring crispy, golden chicken coated in a Parmesan breadcrumb mixture and served with a rich garlic cream sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this meal is easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or fresh vegetables.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Dishes
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 people
Calories 390 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Baking dish For baking the chicken without overcrowding.
  • 1 Meat mallet For pounding chicken breasts to even thickness.
  • 1 Shallow bowls For flour, breading, and egg wash (if used).
  • 1 Skillet For making the garlic cream sauce.
  • 1 Whisk For blending the sauce ingredients smoothly.
  • 1 Measuring Cups/Spoons Ensures accurate portions of seasonings and liquids.
  • Optional Tongs For flipping chicken while cooking.

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Pounded to even thickness for consistent cooking.
  • Salt To taste - Season generously to enhance flavor.
  • Pepper To taste - Freshly ground for better flavor.
  • ½ cup All-purpose flour For dredging the chicken.
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese Mixed with breadcrumbs for coating.
  • ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs Adds crunch to the breading.
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder Enhances the breading's flavor.
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning Adds herbaceous notes to the breading.
  • 2 tbsp Butter For sautéing garlic in the sauce.
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Forms the base of the garlic cream sauce.
  • 1 cup Chicken broth Adds depth to the sauce.
  • 1 cup Heavy cream Creates a rich, creamy texture.
  • Optional - Fresh parsley (chopped) For garnish and added freshness.
  • Optional - Lemon wedges For serving and adding brightness.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Recipe

    Prepare the Chicken:

    • Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
    • Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch).

    Set Up Breading Station:

    • Place flour in a shallow bowl. In a second bowl, mix grated Parmesan cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

    Coat the Chicken:

    • Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess.
    • Press the floured chicken into the Parmesan-Panko mixture, ensuring an even coating on both sides.

    Bake the Chicken:

    • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
    • Arrange the coated chicken breasts in the dish without overcrowding. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.

    Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:

    • Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
    • Stir in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Gradually whisk in heavy cream. Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

    Finalize the Dish:

    • Plate the baked chicken and drizzle generously with the garlic cream sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

    Notes

      • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Keep the sauce separate to maintain crispiness.
      • Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken (without sauce) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
      • Healthier Option: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce. Use olive oil spray instead of butter for browning.
     
     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. What ingredients are needed for making a garlic cream sauce?
      • Butter, minced garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Herbs like parsley or thyme can be added for extra flavor.
       
    2. How can I ensure the chicken remains crispy when adding a cream sauce?
      • Pour the sauce over the chicken just before serving or serve it on the side. Avoid mixing too early to prevent sogginess.
       
    3. What are some good side dishes to serve with crispy parmesan chicken?
      • Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, garlic bread, pasta, or a fresh salad work beautifully as sides.
       
    4. Is it possible to make a gluten-free version of this dish?
      • Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour and ensure all other ingredients (like chicken broth) are gluten-free.
       
    5. Can this dish be made ahead of time?
      • Prepare the chicken and sauce separately. Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes and warm the sauce on the stovetop before serving.
       
    6. What are some tips for achieving the perfect golden brown crust?
      • Preheat the oven properly, ensure the chicken is dry before coating, and use a mix of Parmesan and Panko breadcrumbs for optimal crispiness.
     
     

    Tips & Tricks

    • Flavor Enhancement: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic cream sauce for a spicy kick. Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added aroma.
    • Presentation: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a pop of color and brightness.
    • Leftovers: Use leftover chicken and sauce in wraps, sandwiches, or over a bed of greens for a quick lunch.
     
     

    Plating and Garnishing

    • Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for added freshness and visual appeal.
    • Serving Style: Arrange the chicken neatly on a plate, drizzle with garlic cream sauce, and serve alongside pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
    • Sides: Pair with steamed broccoli, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
    Keyword Chicken Recipe, Comfort Food, Crispy Parmesan Chicken, Garlic Cream Sauce