Name: Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup bread crumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for frying); 1 cup heavy cream; 3-4 fresh garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth or stock; Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a deliciously crispy and tender chicken dish coated with a golden, cheesy crust and smothered in a rich, garlicky cream sauce. It’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the satisfying crunch of a Parmesan crust with a luscious creamy garlic sauce that adds so much flavor and moisture. It’s both indulgent and easy to prepare, making it a go-to when I want something comforting but impressive. Plus, it doesn’t require any fancy ingredients — just simple staples that come together beautifully.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts
Grated Parmesan cheese
Bread crumbs
Garlic powder
Salt
Black pepper
Olive oil or butter (for frying)
Heavy cream
Fresh garlic cloves (minced)
Chicken broth or stock
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the chicken breasts by pounding them slightly to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
In a shallow bowl, mix the grated Parmesan, bread crumbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Coat each chicken breast in the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently so it adheres well.
Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and finish cooking in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Meanwhile, prepare the creamy garlic sauce. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and simmer for a few minutes, scraping up any browned bits.
Add heavy cream and cook gently until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the cooked chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

I sometimes like to swap the bread crumbs for panko crumbs for an extra crunchy texture. For a low-carb option, I skip the bread crumbs altogether and just use Parmesan cheese. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce gives it a subtle spicy kick. I also enjoy mixing in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the crust for an aromatic touch.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I recommend warming the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the crust crispy, then reheating the sauce separately in a small pan before pouring it over the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well with this recipe. They’re juicier and might need slightly longer cooking time, so keep an eye on the internal temperature.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. I substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Can I prepare the chicken crust ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the chicken and keep it in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent drying out.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter option, I sometimes use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich and thick.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

I use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear and the meat should be firm to the touch.

Conclusion

I find this Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce a fantastic recipe for both everyday dinners and special occasions. The combination of crispy, cheesy chicken and silky garlic sauce never fails to satisfy, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. I hope this becomes one of my favorite go-to meals for you as well.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce