Delicious parmesan crusted chicken with creamy garlic sauce is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The crispy coating and rich sauce make this comfort food recipe a family favorite that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Serves: 4 people
What You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Step 1: Get Your Chicken Ready
Start by placing the chicken breasts between plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them until they’re about ¾ inch thick all over. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay tender.
Step 2: Make the Coating
In a shallow dish, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and paprika. In another shallow bowl, crack and beat the eggs until smooth.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Take each chicken breast and dip it first into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s completely covered. Then press it into the Parmesan mixture, coating both sides well. The coating should stick nicely to the egg-covered chicken.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the coated chicken breasts in the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until the coating is golden brown and crispy, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
Don’t clean the skillet! In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it smells amazing. Pour in the heavy cream, then add the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce gets thick and creamy.
Step 6: Bring It All Together
Put the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Spoon the creamy garlic sauce over the top of each piece of chicken. Let it warm through for a minute or two.
What to Serve With Your Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This tasty chicken pairs perfectly with:
- Cooked pasta like fettuccine or penne
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
- A fresh garden salad
- Garlic bread
Tips for the Best Results
Make it extra crispy: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones for a crunchier coating.
Don’t overcook: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F inside.
Keep it warm: If making for a crowd, keep the cooked chicken warm in a 200°F oven while you make the sauce.
Sauce too thin? Let it simmer a bit longer to thicken up, or add a little more Parmesan cheese.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs creates a golden, crunchy coating that seals in the chicken’s juices. The creamy garlic sauce adds rich flavor that complements the crispy exterior perfectly. This is comfort food at its finest – easy enough for busy weeknights but fancy enough for guests.
Enjoy your homemade parmesan crusted chicken with creamy garlic sauce – it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation!